Bright & Simple Cranberry–Orange Sauce

Bright & Simple Cranberry–Orange Sauce

There’s something special about hearing cranberries pop in a warm pot—it instantly feels like the holidays. This Bright & Simple Cranberry–Orange Sauce keeps things easy, fresh, and lightly sweet, using just a few ingredients and only ½ cup of sugar. The orange juice and zest add a sunny flavor that balances the cranberries’ natural tartness, giving you a bright, jewel-toned sauce that tastes great with any holiday meal.

Whether you serve it with turkey, spread it on biscuits, or enjoy it straight from the fridge, this quick homemade sauce brings a little extra cheer to the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or thawed frozen cranberries

• ½ cup sugar (or sugar/Splenda mix for a lower sugar version)

• Zest of 1 orange, or to taste

• ¾ cup fresh orange juice (juice of 1-2 oranges - zest first, then cut and juice)

  
  

Instructions;

1. Combine: Add cranberries, sugar, and orange juice to a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Give everything a quick stir.

2. Cook: Bring to a lively boil. Cook 4–6 minutes, or until the sugar dissolves and the cranberries start popping like tiny fireworks.

3. Add Zest: Stir in the orange zest and let the sauce bubble for another 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.

4. Cool: Turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let the sauce cool completely. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. It will thicken naturally as it chills.