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There’s something undeniably special about homemade cranberry sauce—it’s vibrant in color, bursting with flavor, and wonderfully simple to prepare. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight meal or a festive holiday spread, this sauce will bring a sweet-tart punch to the table. A splash of bourbon and fresh orange zest create a spirited and citrusy twist that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or adjust to taste)
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- Zest of 1 orange
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Begin by rinsing the cranberries, discarding any that look shriveled. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries with the sugar, orange juice, bourbon, and orange zest. Place the pan over medium-high heat and stir gently as the sugar dissolves. You’ll notice the cranberries starting to pop and release their juices—this is where the magic happens!
Once the mixture bubbles, reduce the heat to low, and sprinkle in the ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. As it cooks down, the cranberries will soften and the sauce will begin to thicken. When the consistency looks jammy, remove from heat. Taste and adjust sugar if needed. Remember, it will thicken more as it cools.
Allow the sauce to cool slightly before transferring it to a serving dish or storing it in an airtight container. Feel free to make it a day or two in advance for convenience; the flavors only become richer over time.
This bourbon cranberry sauce is perfect for anyone eager to level up a traditional recipe—from the seasoned home cook to the dinner-party whiz. It’s particularly wonderful for the holidays, but don’t let that stop you from stirring it into your day-to-day meals. For a non-alcoholic version, simply swap out the bourbon with extra orange juice or even apple cider. Looking to cut back on sugar? Experiment with honey or a sugar substitute. However you choose to make it, this sweet, tangy, and subtly boozy condiment is sure to add sparkle to your plate.
