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Homemade Cranberry Sauce

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This homemade cranberry sauce is a perfect blend of tart and sweet with a hint of orange and cinnamon. It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it the perfect addition to your holiday meals. Whether served with turkey, ham, or as a side dish, this fresh, flavorful cranberry sauce will become a holiday favorite!

Ingredients

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  • 12 oz fresh cranberries (rinsed)
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 3/4 cup pure orange juice
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the water, orange juice, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon over medium-high heat.
  2. Once the mixture comes to a boil, gently pour the cranberries into the saucepan. Reduce the heat to a simmer.
  3. Simmer the mixture uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will start to pop and burst open.
  4. Once most of the cranberries have popped, use a potato masher to gently mash the cranberries. The more you mash, the smoother the sauce will be. If you prefer an extra-smooth texture, you can blend the mixture in a blender until smooth.
  5. Simmer for an additional 3 minutes.
  6. Turn off the heat but leave the pot uncovered on the burner to cool and thicken for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Transfer the cranberry sauce to an airtight container and chill overnight or for at least 6 hours.

Notes

  • This cranberry sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance, making it a great dish to prepare ahead of time for your holiday gatherings.
  • For a smoother sauce, blend it after mashing, but if you like a chunkier texture, skip this step.
  • Feel free to add a pinch of ginger or nutmeg for a different flavor twist.

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