This Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce is a tasty twist on the classic recipe! The zesty orange and nutty amaretto add a fun, flavorful kick to juicy cranberries.
It’s the perfect side for your holiday table or just any day when you need a little extra zing. I love putting it on sandwiches and pancakes—so good! 🍊✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for this sauce, providing that tartness we love. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries can work too—just make sure they’re not sweetened.
Amaretto Liqueur: This adds a lovely nutty flavor. If you want an alcohol-free version, consider using almond extract or a splash of apple juice for sweetness and depth.
Orange Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed juice makes a big difference in taste. You can also use bottled juice if you’re in a pinch, but it won’t have the same freshness.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is the norm, but you could swap it for brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or even use honey if you’re looking for a natural sweetener. Just adjust to taste!
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Your Cranberry Sauce?
Achieving a smooth yet chunky texture is key. Here’s how:
- After the cranberries pop, keep some whole for chunks while mashing some for a smoother sauce.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; let it simmer gently. This allows the cranberries to break down and thicken the sauce.
- If you prefer it thicker, simmer it for a few more minutes after adding Amaretto.
Letting it cool is important, as it thickens up more. If it’s too thick after cooling, stir in a little bit of water or orange juice to reach your desired consistency!
Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup Amaretto liqueur
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- A small sprig of rosemary for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, plus some time for cooling. 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 fresh cranberries under cold water. Look through them and discard any that are damaged or soft. You want only the best cranberries for this delightful sauce!
2. Dissolve the Sugar:
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and fresh orange juice. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring often, until the sugar dissolves completely. This creates a sweet, citrusy base for your sauce.
3. Bring to a Simmer:
Once the sugar is dissolved, add the fresh cranberries to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer. You should start hearing those cranberries pop as they cook!
4. Cook the Cranberries:
Let the cranberries simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll see the cranberries begin to burst and release their juicy goodness, creating a delightful sauce.
5. Add the Flavor:
Next, stir in the orange zest and Amaretto liqueur. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes. This is where the magic happens as all the flavors come together beautifully!
6. Finish Off the Sauce:
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. If you like, stir in the vanilla extract now for a little extra depth of flavor. Let the sauce cool to room temperature—it will thicken as it cools.
7. Serve it Up!
Transfer your cranberry sauce to a lovely serving bowl. If you want, garnish it with a small sprig of rosemary and some additional orange zest for a pretty touch. This sauce can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it super versatile!
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful cranberry sauce that perfectly complements turkey, chicken, or even your morning toast! It’s sure to brighten up any meal! 🦃🍊
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in this recipe! Just make sure to rinse them under cold water before cooking. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; you can add them straight to the saucepan.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
You can store leftover Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just make sure it’s cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
Can I Make This Sauces Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This cranberry sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Just let it cool completely, store it in the refrigerator, and give it a gentle stir before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Amaretto?
If you prefer to skip the alcohol, you can substitute Amaretto with almond extract (about 1 teaspoon) or simply use additional orange juice for flavor. It will still be delicious!
