Homemade Jellied Cranberry Sauce (Just Like the Can!)
This homemade jellied cranberry sauce is a completely from-scratch version of the nostalgic canned cranberry sauce we all grew up with! Smooth, sliceable, and perfectly sweet-tart, this recipe uses fresh cranberries, raspberries, and real orange juice for incredible flavor and the classic gelled texture. You can even pour it into clean tin cans for an authentic presentation!
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Immersion blender or regular blender
- Fine mesh strainer
- Candy thermometer
- Sterilized jars or clean tin cans
- Water bath canner (optional)
Ingredients
- 9 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup orange juice
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 Tbsp powdered pectin (optional)
- 1 cup raspberries (optional, reduce cranberries by 1 cup)
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, water, and orange juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all berries have burst.
- Remove from heat and carefully blend the hot mixture using an immersion blender or regular blender. Blend until completely smooth.
- Pour the blended mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean saucepan. Press through with a spoon to remove seeds and skins for a perfectly smooth texture.
- Return strained mixture to medium heat. Mix optional pectin with sugar, then add to the pot. Stir constantly and bring to a rapid boil. Cook until the mixture reaches 215–217°F for proper gelling.
- Pour hot jellied cranberry sauce into sterilized jars or clean tin cans. Wipe rims and apply lids.
- For shelf-stable storage, process jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. For refrigerator storage, skip the water bath and let jars cool at room temperature before refrigerating.
- To unmold, place jar or can in hot water for a few seconds until loosened. Invert onto a plate and slice.
Notes
For the most nostalgic 'from-the-can' experience, pour into thoroughly cleaned tin cans and refrigerate until set. Raspberries are optional but add depth and a brighter color.