The holidays are here, and that means the smell of turkey roasting in the oven and the promise of tasty side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, and, of course, cranberry sauce. While store-bought options are convenient, they often come loaded with added sugars. This homemade cranberry sauce recipe is a game-changer! Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and orange zest, it is the perfect balance of tart and sweet without all the extra sugar. Plus, it is an easy and healthy alternative to traditional cranberry sauce that will pair wonderfully with Thanksgiving turkey and even turkey sandwiches.
Why Homemade is Best
Homemade cranberry sauce offers several advantages over store-bought versions:
- Natural Sweeteners: You can control the amount of sugar added, opting for natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh or frozen cranberries ensures a vibrant flavor and a burst of antioxidants.
- Customizable Flavors: Experiment with different spices and citrus fruits to create unique flavor profiles.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (or sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit for a sugar-free cranberry sauce)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest from 1 orange
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Start with a Medium Saucepan – Place the frozen cranberries in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the water, maple syrup (or your preferred sugar substitute), and a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a Boil – Stir occasionally and bring the mixture to a boil. You will start to hear the cranberries pop as they begin to soften.
- Simmer and Stir – Reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will begin to break down, and the sauce will thicken.
- Add the Zest and Vanilla – Stir in the orange zest and vanilla extract. Continue cooking for a couple more minutes to infuse those delicious flavors into the sauce.
- Let it Cool – Once your homemade cranberry sauce is thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it cool down to room temperature before serving.
- Leftover Cranberry Sauce – Do not worry about leftovers! This healthy cranberry sauce makes a great topping for turkey sandwiches the next day. You can also store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for later use.
Why This Recipe Works:
The combination of naturally sweet maple syrup and fresh orange zest gives this homemade cranberry sauce the perfect balance of sweetness without the need for refined sugars. With sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit, you can even make a sugar-free cranberry sauce, ideal for those looking to cut back on sugar while still enjoying the festive flavors.
So, next time you are preparing your Thanksgiving spread, skip the overly sugary store-bought cranberry sauce and make this homemade version. Your taste buds will thank you!
Conclusion
This homemade cranberry sauce recipe is a simple, healthier alternative to the store-bought kind. Whether you are making it for your Thanksgiving turkey or as a side dish with green beans, this naturally sweetened sauce is sure to impress. It is full of natural sugars from the cranberries and maple syrup, with no added junk. Plus, it is a great way to use up leftover cranberry sauce! Feel free to check out the recipe card above for easy reference and start making this delicious, healthy addition to your holiday meals today!
