Quick and Easy Cranberry Sauce for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and if there’s one side dish everyone will expect, it’s cranberry sauce. Store-bought options can do in a pinch. But, there’s something really satisfying about making your own classic cranberry sauce. The deep red color and the perfect balance of sweet and tart make it a must-have for any Thanksgiving dinner. There are many different variations of cranberry sauce, but this quick and easy recipe will have you serving up delicious homemade cranberry sauce in no time. 

But the best part about cranberry sauce is using it the next day on leftover turkey sandwiches. And what would roast turkey sandwiches be without the cranberry sauce?

Do you warm up cranberry sauce before serving?

You can warm up the cranberry sauce before serving. In fact, some people say it enhances the flavor. However, I prefer the cranberry sauce at room temperature. I usually make it the day before and keep it in the refrigerator overnight. A few hours before we sit down for dinner, I place it on the counter and let it come to room temperature.

Can I use frozen cranberries in place of fresh cranberries?

While I prefer to use fresh cranberries, I have used both and to be honest, I can’t taste a difference. So if you can’t find fresh cranberries go ahead and get those frozen ones.

Can you freeze cranberry sauce?

You can make and then freeze cranberry sauce. So it is one of those recipes you make ahead and pop into the freezer. Just make sure you seal it in an airtight container before putting it in the freezer. Then, just take it out the night before you plan on using it, put it in the refrigerator, and let it thaw. 

What is the difference between cranberry sauce and cranberry relish?

There is one major difference between the two. Cranberry relish is made from uncooked ingredients blended in a food processor. Cranberry sauce is cooked and is usually much sweeter than relish.

What equipment will I need for quick and easy cranberry sauce?

When I say this is quick and easy, I really mean it. Prep time is almost non-existent as you only need a few things for this recipe. 

• Saucepan
• Measuring cup
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Zester

The ingredients

• Orange (for the zest or rind)
• Orange juice
• White sugar
• Cranberries

Quick and easy cranberry sauce recipe instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the sugar and orange juice and simmer until the sugar dissolves.
2. Adjust the to medium-high heat, stir in the cranberries, bring them to a slow boil until you start to hear them pop (such a satisfying sound), and reduce the heat. This should take about 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Remove them from the heat, transfer them to a bowl, and let them cool. If your cranberry sauce looks too watery, don’t worry. The sauce will thicken as it cools. Once cooled, the sauce should have the consistency of a good jam.
4. After they have cooled, top with slivers of the orange peel or orange zest. It really does add such great flavor and the orange against the red, looks really pretty.

If you liked this recipe, you might like these other Thanksgiving recipes as well:

• Herb Roasted Turkey
• Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes
• Savory Thanksgiving Stuffing
• Crispy Shallots With Green Beans and Mushrooms
• Maple-Glazed Autumn Carrots
• Vegan Acorn Stuffed Squash

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