Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or 3/4 cup honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar, plus more to taste)
- 3/4 cup water (preferably filtered)
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
Instructions
- Rinse Cranberries: Place cranberries in a bowl of water to allow any bad berries to float to the surface for easy removal. Discard any shriveled, squishy, or discolored cranberries, then drain well.
- Melt Sugar: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar (or chosen sweetener) and water. Stir constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is simmering gently.
- Add Cranberries: Add the cranberries to the saucepan, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, approximately 12-15 minutes.
- Sweeten to Taste: Taste the sauce and add additional maple syrup, honey, or sugar to your preference. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature before serving.
Notes
- For a smoother sauce, you can lightly mash the cranberries during cooking or blend after cooling.
- Use filtered or distilled water to ensure a clean flavor.
- Adjust sweetness gradually to suit your taste preferences.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- This sauce pairs well with turkey, pork, cheese boards, or as a spread on toast.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American