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Looking for a fresh spin on the classic cranberry sauce? This Sweet Heat Cranberry-Jalapeño Sauce is the perfect balance of tangy sweetness and warming spice. It’s a vibrant condiment that livens up your table—whether you’re adding a twist to your holiday meal or simply craving a burst of bold flavor on an ordinary Tuesday.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of fresh cranberries, rinsed
- 1 medium jalapeño, seeds removed (for less heat) and finely diced
- ¾ cup sugar (or a lower-sugar substitute, if preferred)
- ½ cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Pour the cranberries, diced jalapeño, and sugar into a medium saucepan. Stir in the orange juice and orange zest, then bring the mixture to a low simmer over medium heat. You’ll hear the cranberries begin to pop as the sauce comes to life—this is a good sign that the berries are breaking down and releasing their juices.
Keep cooking the sauce for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll notice the sauce start to thicken and the cranberries soften. Add a small pinch of salt to enhance the blend of sweet and spicy flavors. If you usually like an extra kick, toss in another half a jalapeño or a dash of chili flakes.
Once the cranberries are mostly broken down and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the pan from the heat. Let the mixture cool before serving—it will thicken a bit more as it rests.
Serve your Sweet Heat Cranberry-Jalapeño Sauce warm or chilled; it’s just as tasty the next day. This recipe will keep in the fridge for up to a week in a tightly sealed container.
To take your condiment game a step further, spread a spoonful onto creamy brie for a holiday appetizer, or swirl it into your turkey sandwich for a flavorful twist.
This sauce is a trainer for your taste buds: the classic tartness of cranberries is complemented by the jalapeño’s fiery kick, satisfying those who enjoy bold flavors without overwhelming those who prefer milder spice. For a healthier option, try using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also tweak the amount of jalapeño—leave in some seeds if you want additional heat or add fresh herbs like cilantro for a refreshing finishing note. Whichever way you go, this sauce is an easy, crowd-pleasing upgrade that’s bound to make both everyday meals and special gatherings feel a little more festive.
