Go Back
Close-up of a bowl of Simple Cranberry Sauce, garnished with bright orange zest.

Simple Cranberry Sauce

A quick and easy homemade cranberry sauce that brings bright, fresh flavors to your holiday table.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Thanksgiving
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar 200g
  • 1 cup water 250ml
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries one 12-ounce package

Optional Mix-Ins

  • pecans chopped
  • orange zest
  • raisins, currants, or blueberries
  • cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the cranberries in a colander and discard any damaged or bruised ones.
  • Boil the water and sugar in a medium saucepan, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
  • Add the cranberries and return to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until most cranberries burst.
  • Stir in optional mix-ins like pecans, orange zest, or spices if desired.
  • Remove from heat and let cool completely. The sauce will thicken as it cools.

Notes

This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Adjust sweetness or spices to your taste.
Keyword cranberry sauce, homemade cranberry sauce, Thanksgiving dinner