Homemade Cranberry Sauce

🍂When it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, there’s always that one dish that truly makes the whole table feel complete — and for many of us, it’s the cranberry sauce. Bright, tangy, sweet, and so simple to prepare, this Homemade Cranberry Sauce brings that classic holiday flavor that canned versions just can’t replicate.

Made with fresh cranberries, a mix of sugar and brown sugar, and a splash of orange juice for warmth and brightness, this sauce adds the perfect pop of color to your Thanksgiving plate. It’s one of those small touches that makes the whole meal feel a little more special. 🍽️✨

And the best part? You can make it days ahead, which means one less thing to worry about while prepping the turkey and sides. Serve it cold, serve it slightly warm — either way, it’s a Thanksgiving must-have that everyone will reach for. 🥧

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Test Kitchen
Category

Side Dish

A bright, sweet-tart holiday classic! This easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce comes together in just minutes and adds the perfect pop of flavor to your Thanksgiving dinner. Make it ahead for stress-free holiday prep. 🍂🦃

Ingredients

  • 2/3 c. Sugar
  • 1/3 c. Light Brown Sugar, tightly packed
  • 1/3 c. Water
  • 2/3 c. Orange Juice
  • 12 oz. Cranberries, rinsed and picked through (bad cranberries removed)

Directions

  1. Combine sugars, water, and orange juice in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until sugars are dissolved, and bring to a boil.
  2. Add cranberries and return to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and continue to cook cranberries, stirring occasionally, 10-15 minutes or until all or most berries have burst (careful, there is some splatter) and the mixture is slightly reduced.
  3. The longer you cook your cranberries, the thicker your mixture will be, but it will also thicken up after standing.
  4. Transfer mixture to a bowl and allow it to cool for at least 20 minutes at room temperature.
  5. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.
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