Go Back

Easy Cranberry Sauce

A vibrant, sweet-tart cranberry sauce made with fresh cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and optional cinnamon. Perfect for holiday meals and versatile as a spread or topping.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries rinsed
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water.
  2. Combine cranberries, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan.
  3. Heat over medium-high heat until mixture reaches a boil, about 5 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low and add orange zest and ground cinnamon (if using).
  5. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
  6. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
  7. Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate if not serving immediately.

Notes

Make this sauce a day ahead to allow the flavors to develop even more.