Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce
This easy homemade cranberry sauce is made with just 5 ingredients in under 20 minutes! Fresh cranberries, maple syrup, and orange zest come together for a naturally sweet-tart, citrusy sauce that’s far better than canned. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or as a year-round condiment for breakfasts, sandwiches, and desserts.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Zester or microplane
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (or more to taste)
- 1/4 cup water or orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest (from about 1 orange)
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, maple syrup, water (or orange juice), orange zest, and salt. Stir to mix evenly.
- Heat over medium-low until the mixture begins to simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. This takes about 3–5 minutes.
- As the cranberries heat, they’ll start to pop—this means they’re releasing their natural pectin. Reduce heat to low and continue stirring occasionally.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or zest as desired. Add more maple syrup for sweetness or extra zest for brightness.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
Pro Tips: Don’t overcook—remove from heat while slightly thinner than desired since it thickens as it cools. Stir often to prevent burning, and use orange juice instead of water for a brighter citrus twist. Both fresh and frozen cranberries work perfectly!