Description
This easy homemade fresh cranberry orange sauce recipe is bursting with sweet and tangy flavor—perfect for Thanksgiving dinner or any time you need a fruity side dish.
Ingredients
¼ cup white sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
Zest of 1 orange
Juice of 1 orange (about ½ cup)
½ cup water
1 (12 oz) bag fresh cranberries
Instructions
Zest the orange using a zester and set aside.
Juice the orange—aim for about ½ cup of juice.
In a large pot, combine white sugar, brown sugar, and water. Heat over medium and stir occasionally until sugars dissolve.
Add in the orange zest, orange juice, and cranberries.
Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will begin to pop and break down into a sauce.
Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Serve chilled for best flavor.
Notes
Make Ahead: This sauce is best made 2–3 days in advance and served chilled, making it a stress-free Thanksgiving side.
Storage: Store cooled sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
