This cranberry sauce by Joanna Gaines is a perfect blend of tart and sweet flavors. Made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and a touch of orange zest, it’s a lovely addition to any meal.
I enjoy how quick it is to make! Just simmer the ingredients, and you’ve got a zesty treat that makes everything taste better. Plus, it’s a colorful dish that shines on the table! 🍊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal for this recipe due to their tartness. If fresh berries are unavailable, frozen cranberries work just as well. Just be sure not to thaw them before cooking!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is the classic choice for sweetness. For a healthier option, consider substituting with honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount based on your taste.
Orange Zest: This adds a lovely citrus flavor. If you don’t have an orange, lemon zest can be a nice alternative! It will give the sauce a different twist that still works well.
Salt & Cinnamon: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness, while cinnamon adds warmth. Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile!
How Do I Ensure My Cranberry Sauce Turns Out Perfectly?
Getting the right texture in cranberry sauce is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a medium saucepan at medium heat to dissolve the sugar completely before adding the cranberries. This step is crucial!
- Cook until the cranberries burst, stirring gently to help them break down. This usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Let the sauce cool to room temperature before refrigerating. It thickens more as it cools, giving you that perfect sauce texture.
Don’t rush the simmering process! Taking your time here really enhances the flavors.
Joanna Gaines Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (from 1 orange)
- Optional: a pinch of salt or cinnamon for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active cooking time, plus a little extra time to cool and thicken. Overall, you can have this delicious cranberry sauce ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water. Make sure to toss out any that are soft or spoiled. This will help ensure your sauce is fresh and tasty.
2. Dissolve the Sugar:
In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Place it on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is important for the right sweetness!
3. Add the Cranberries:
Once the sugar is dissolved, add the rinsed cranberries to the saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally.
4. Simmer the Mixture:
Let the cranberries simmer for about 10 minutes. As they cook, they will burst and the sauce will thicken. This is what creates that lovely texture!
5. Add Orange Zest:
After the cranberries have simmered, stir in the orange zest. Let it cook for one more minute. This adds a nice citrus flavor that brightens up the sauce.
6. Cool the Sauce:
Once you’ve finished cooking, remove the saucepan from heat. Let the sauce cool to room temperature, which will help it thicken even more.
7. Refrigerate and Serve:
Transfer the cooled cranberry sauce to a bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill until you’re ready to serve it. You can enjoy the sauce chilled or at room temperature—both ways are delightful!
Enjoy this vibrant, tangy-sweet cranberry sauce as a perfect accompaniment to your holiday meals or roasted dishes!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen cranberries! Just add them directly to the pot without thawing, and adjust the cooking time if needed, but it usually works out perfectly.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the amount of sugar to ¾ cup or even down to ½ cup. Taste it as it simmers, and feel free to add more if necessary!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This cranberry sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will develop even more flavor over time!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s perfect for using in sandwiches, salads, or as a topping for desserts!
