Classic Cranberry Sauce
How to prepare a classic cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving
Equipment
- medium saucepan
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest optional for extra brightness
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
Instructions
Rinse Cranberries
- Rinse the cranberries and remove any stems or damaged berries.
Combine Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely.
Cook Cranberries
- Add the cranberries to the saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Simmer
- Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll hear the cranberries pop as they soften.
Add Flavorings
- Stir in orange zest and cinnamon, if using.
Cool
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. It will thicken as it cools.
Serve
- Transfer to a serving dish. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside your turkey.