This sweet and tangy cranberry sauce is made special with brown sugar and a hint of maple. It’s the perfect touch to brighten up your holiday meals!
Honestly, I could eat this right out of the bowl! The flavors are so festive, and it takes just a few minutes to whip up. Perfect for impressing guests or just enjoying at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are essential here. You can often find them in the store during the fall and winter. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries work just fine—just rinse and add them straight to the pot!
Brown Sugar: I love using packed brown sugar for its deep, caramel-like flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace it with coconut sugar or even white sugar, but it might not have the same richness.
Pure Maple Syrup: This is what gives the sauce that lovely maple taste. If you’re in a pinch, honey or agave syrup could serve as substitutes, though the flavor will change a bit. I prefer pure maple syrup for its rich taste!
Lemon Juice: It adds brightness to the sauce. If you don’t have fresh lemon, a splash of apple cider vinegar can work too! Don’t skip this step—the acid really balances the sweetness.
How Do You Get the Right Consistency for Cranberry Sauce?
Getting your cranberry sauce just right can be tricky, but it’s all about monitoring the cooking process. Cranberries burst as they cook, releasing pectin, which helps thicken the sauce. Here’s how to achieve the perfect texture:
- Start by simmering your sauce gently. This helps keep the cranberries intact while they cook.
- Keep an eye on them! The sauce is done when it’s thickened and the cranberries have mostly burst. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Let it cool. The sauce will thicken further as it cools down in the fridge, so don’t be alarmed if it looks a little runny when hot.
If you prefer a smoother sauce, feel free to mash it a bit or blend it after cooking. Enjoy your homemade cranberry goodness!
Brown Sugar Maple Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional for brightness)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for warmth)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5-10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have a delicious cranberry sauce ready in about 25-30 minutes total. It’s quick to make and perfect for any holiday gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Take a moment to pick out any stems or damaged berries, as they won’t taste good in your sauce.
2. Make the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, and water. Turn the heat to medium and stir occasionally until the brown sugar dissolves completely. This will create a sweet syrup base for your cranberries.
3. Add the Cranberries:
Once the sugar mixture is dissolved, bring it to a gentle boil. Then, add the rinsed cranberries to the pot. You will hear them sizzle a bit as they hit the hot mixture!
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium-low and let your mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Stir it occasionally. As it cooks, the cranberries will burst open, and the sauce will start to thicken up nicely.
5. Enhance the Flavor:
If you want to add a little brightness and warmth, stir in the fresh lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This is optional but really enhances the overall flavor!
6. Cool It Down:
Once the sauce is looking thick and bubbly, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Don’t worry if it seems a bit runny at first; it will thicken as it cools!
7. Chill and Serve:
Transfer the cooled sauce into a serving bowl or an airtight container. Refrigerate it until you are ready to serve! Enjoy the delightful sweetness of this cranberry sauce with your favorite dishes.
This luscious, sweet, and tangy cranberry sauce is perfect for holiday feasts but is also a wonderful treat anytime you crave something festive!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, absolutely! You can use frozen cranberries in this recipe. Just rinse them under cold water before adding them to the pot, and there’s no need to thaw them first. The cooking time will be about the same.
What Can I Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be used as substitutes, though they will change the flavor a bit. If you want to maintain the maple essence, just stick with pure maple syrup for the best results!
How Long Does This Cranberry Sauce Last in the Fridge?
This cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to three months—just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before serving!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This cranberry sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Just let it cool, store it in the fridge, and give it a good stir before serving. It’s a great make-ahead option for holiday meals!
