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Fresh homemade cranberry sauce with orange juice in glass bowl, featuring ruby red cranberries and citrus garnish for holiday meals

15-Minute Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange Juice

This Classic Cranberry Sauce with Orange Juice delivers the perfect balance of tart and sweet, enhanced with bright citrus notes. Ready in just 15 minutes, this homemade sauce transforms any meal into a festive experience.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 2 cups
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Calories: 110
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
Optional Additions:
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 cinnamon stick 2–3 whole cloves, or star anise
  • ¼ cup Grand Marnier Cointreau, or bourbon (optional)
Smart Substitutions:
  • Use brown sugar or maple syrup for natural sweetness
  • Replace half the orange juice with water for a lighter flavor
  • Frozen cranberries can replace fresh no thawing needed

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. Add zest and spices if using. Stir gently to dissolve sugar.
  2. Bring mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat until consistent bubbling forms.
  3. Reduce heat and simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries pop and mixture thickens.
  4. Test for consistency by coating the back of a spoon — sauce should cling slightly. It will thicken more as it cools.
  5. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Avoid overcooking — the sauce thickens naturally as it cools. For extra flavor, add a splash of liqueur or fresh ginger. Store refrigerated up to 7 days or freeze for 3 months.