Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce
If you've ever had cranberry sauce recipe that was just too sweet you're not alone. Most recipes lean heavy on the sugar and lose that bright, tart flavor that makes cranberries so good in the first place. This Small-Batch Cranberry sauce keeps things balanced. Its not overly sweet and can be made ahead of time for even better flavor. Whether cooking for a smaller gathering or just not wanting a whole lot of leftovers in the fridge. This small-batch cranberry sauce side dish is designed just for you.
Servings: 2 cups
Calories: 257kcal
Ingredients
- 12 ounces (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries 1 bag frozen cranberries
- ⅔ cup (135g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) water
- ¼ - ½ teaspoon orange zest - optional
- 1/16 teaspoon salt
- 1 cinnamon stick - optional
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients. In a medium saucepan combine the cranberries, sugar, water and orange zest.12 ounces (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries, ⅔ cup (135g) granulated sugar, ½ cup (120ml) water, ¼ - ½ teaspoon orange zest, 1/16 teaspoon salt
- Bring to Boil. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve sugar.
- Simmer & Burst. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 8-12 minutes. The cranberries will start to pop open as they cook. Stir occasionally and lightly press some of the berries with the back of a spoon to create a mixed texture.1 cinnamon stick
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, mash the cranberries with a spoon or briefly blend it with an immersion blender.
- Cool & Serve. Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool. Do not overcook, as this can create a thick, gummy texture. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- The sauce is ready when most of the cranberries have burst and it lightly coats the back of a spoon. It may look slightly loose when hot but will thicken as it cools.
- Served immediately or store in the refrigertaor until ready to use. Serving sizes will vary but plan for about 2 to 4 tablespoons per person, which serves about 6 to 12 guests.
Nutrition
Calories: 257kcal | Carbohydrates: 66g | Protein: 0.01g | Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 4mg | Potassium: 2mg | Fiber: 0.03g | Sugar: 67g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 3mg | Iron: 0.04mg
