Cranberry sauce is a holiday classic, and this cranberry and orange sauce is a simple twist that’s just as easy to make. It comes together in one saucepan with a handful of ingredients, and it’s a lovely homemade foodie gift to give around the holidays too.
This recipe is adapted from The Vegetarian Epicure by Anna Thomas.
Fresh cranberries usually appear in shops in the run-up to the holidays, so it’s worth picking up a few bags while you can. They freeze well, so you can stock up early and always have some on hand for holiday cooking and baking.
Easy Cranberry and Orange Sauce
Serves 6-8
Ingredients:
- 150g caster sugar
- 250ml orange juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of ground cloves
- 350g fresh cranberries
Method:
1. Combine the sugar, orange juice, cinnamon and cloves in a medium saucepan and bring to the boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
2. Add the cranberries, return to the boil and stir over a medium heat for about 10 minutes. Use a long-handled spoon and keep an eye on it, as this will bubble and spit.
3. When most of the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened, it’s done.
4. Pour it into a serving dish or storage container and allow it to cool, then store it in the fridge.
5. This will keep, covered, for 1 week in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does cranberry and orange sauce keep?
Stored covered in the fridge, this sauce will keep for up to a week, so it’s a great one to make ahead of a busy holiday cooking schedule.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes. Frozen cranberries work well in this recipe – there’s no need to thaw them first, just add them straight to the pan. You may need a few extra minutes of cooking time for the sauce to thicken.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. Since it keeps well in the fridge, you can make this sauce a few days before you need it, which takes one less thing off your plate on the day.
Can I freeze the finished sauce?
Cranberry sauce generally freezes well, so it’s a handy make-ahead option if you’d like to prepare it further in advance. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
What goes well with cranberry and orange sauce?
It’s a natural match for turkey, ham or a holiday cheeseboard, and it also makes a lovely spread on leftover sandwiches the next day.
Related Articles
Looking for more holiday food inspiration? You might also enjoy:
- 15 Easy Christmas Recipes That Everyone Will Love
- 10 Easy Homemade Food Gifts that Kids Can Make at Christmas
Save This for Later
Loved this recipe? Save this page or add it to your holiday recipe folder so it’s ready to hand when you start your Christmas cooking. Browse our other recipe ideas for more easy family favourites to try this season.
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