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Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce

This easy homemade cranberry sauce recipe is sweet, tart, and full of fresh cranberry flavor. Made with simple ingredients in one saucepan, it is the perfect holiday side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and family gatherings. The sauce comes together quickly, can be made ahead, and tastes far better than store-bought versions.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. Add the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, water, orange zest, and orange juice to a medium saucepan. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally as the sugar dissolves into the liquid.
  3. Continue cooking for 10 to 15 minutes. The cranberries will begin to burst naturally, releasing their juices and creating a vibrant red sauce. Stir occasionally throughout the cooking process.
  4. As the cranberries soften and break down, the sauce will begin to thicken. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches a slightly loose but glossy consistency.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  6. Allow the cranberry sauce to cool in the saucepan for about 20 minutes. The sauce will continue thickening as it cools.
  7. Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl or airtight container and refrigerate until chilled. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Frozen cranberries may be substituted for fresh cranberries.
  • Cranberry sauce thickens significantly after cooling.
  • For additional citrus flavor, add extra orange zest.
  • Make up to 3 days ahead for easy holiday preparation.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.