3 Ingredient Fresh Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This 3 Ingredient Fresh Cranberry Sauce is a quick and simple way to brighten up your holiday table. Made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice, it offers a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors that complement any festive meal.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Place cranberries in a strainer and rinse them thoroughly. Pick through to remove any bad cranberries, sticks, or stems.
- Step 2: Combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally as the mixture heats.
- Step 3: When the sauce comes to a boil, the berries will start bursting after about 5 to 7 minutes. Reduce heat to a simmer and continue stirring occasionally for another 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and refrigerate the sauce. Serve it cold or at room temperature alongside your favorite dishes.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, add a cinnamon stick or a splash of vanilla extract while cooking, then remove before serving.
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, pulse the sauce briefly in a blender after it cools slightly.
Storage
Store the cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or serve chilled straight from the fridge.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; just increase the cooking time slightly until the berries burst and the sauce thickens.
Is it possible to make this cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. This sauce actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
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3 Ingredient Fresh Cranberry Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1x
Description
This simple 3 Ingredient Fresh Cranberry Sauce recipe combines fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, and fresh orange juice to create a tangy, sweet, and vibrant sauce perfect for holiday meals or year-round dishes. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s a quick and fresh alternative to canned cranberry sauce.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberries: Place the cranberries in a strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Pick through the berries carefully to remove any bad ones, and discard any stems or sticks to ensure a clean sauce base.
- Combine ingredients and cook: In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, granulated sugar, and fresh orange juice. Place the pan over medium-high heat and stir occasionally. As the mixture heats, the cranberries will begin to pop and release their juices, bringing the sauce to a boil in about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Simmer to thicken: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Continue to stir occasionally as the cranberry sauce thickens and reduces, about 3 more minutes, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Cool and serve: Remove the pan from heat and let the sauce cool. Refrigerate until chilled or serve at room temperature, whichever you prefer. The sauce pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, and other savory dishes.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture. Frozen can work but may require longer cooking.
- Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer a tarter or sweeter sauce.
- Fresh orange juice adds a bright citrus note; substitute with orange zest or juice concentrate if fresh is unavailable.
- This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a smoother sauce, pulse in a blender after cooking, if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: fresh cranberry sauce, easy cranberry sauce, 3 ingredient cranberry sauce, homemade cranberry sauce, holiday sauce, side dish, simple cranberry sauce
