Irresistible Easy 4 Ingredient Cranberry Sauce Recipe

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by Tonya

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There’s a moment in every family gathering when the turkey gets jealous. It’s that magical moment when the Easy 4 Ingredient Cranberry Sauce makes its grand entrance. Picture this: a glossy, ruby-red concoction that glistens like it just walked off a magazine cover. cozy breakfast idea Its sweet-tart flavor dances on your palate, while the aroma fills the air, teasing everyone about what’s to come. savory chicken bake As you scoop it onto your plate, you can already hear the gasps of delight from friends and family who know they’re about to experience something extraordinary.

I remember the first time I made this sauce; my aunt declared it “the star of Thanksgiving.” Little did I know that with just four simple ingredients, I’d create a dish that would steal the show and garner compliments for years to come. Perfect for holidays or any occasion where you want your food to shine, this sauce promises an explosion of flavor with every spoonful—and trust me, your turkey will thank you for it.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Easy 4 Ingredient Cranberry Sauce is quick and effortless, making holiday prep a breeze
  • The balance of sweet and tart flavors creates a delicious harmony in every bite
  • Its vibrant color adds an eye-catching touch to any table setting
  • Enjoy it fresh or as a versatile topping for various dishes throughout the week

I once whipped up this cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving dinner, and my cousin couldn’t stop raving about it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious dessert pairing.

  • Fresh Cranberries: Look for bright red berries without blemishes; they should feel firm and bounce back when you press them.

  • Sugar: Granulated sugar works best to achieve that perfect sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.

  • Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brings brightness; avoid bottled versions if possible for the best flavor.

  • Water: Plain old water helps balance the mixture; always use filtered water for cleaner taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Vegan Swedish Meatballs recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or bad berries. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture and taste.

Combine Ingredients in a Pot: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water over medium heat. Stir gently until everything melds together beautifully.

Bring to a Simmer: Increase heat slightly until the mixture starts bubbling merrily. You’ll smell that tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen—a sure sign you’re on the right track.

Cook Until Thickened: Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst open and release their juicy goodness. Stir occasionally; this is where magic happens!

Cool and Serve!: Remove from heat and let your Easy 4 Ingredient Cranberry Sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. healthy lunch wrap recipes It thickens as it cools—trust me on this one!

Now you’ve created a fantastic sauce that’ll elevate any meal! Enjoy it as a side dish or use it in sandwiches—the possibilities are endless!

You Must Know

  • This Easy 4 Ingredient Cranberry Sauce is a game-changer for holiday dinners
  • It’s quick, flavorful, and elevates any meal with its vibrant color and tangy sweetness
  • Perfect for spreading on turkey or simply enjoying with crackers; it adds a touch of festive cheer!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing the cranberries to remove any debris. Then, boil them with sugar and water until they pop, creating that delightful sauce texture.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to spice things up by adding orange zest, cinnamon, or even a splash of bourbon for an adult twist!

Storing & Reheating

Store your cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture
  • Don’t skip rinsing them; it helps remove bitterness
  • For extra sweetness, adjust sugar based on your taste preference or add honey

Creating this Easy 4 Ingredient Cranberry Sauce became a holiday tradition in my family. The first time I made it, my uncle proclaimed it “better than grandma’s.” No pressure there! For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Garlic Christmas Tree Bread recipe.

FAQ

How do I know when my cranberry sauce is done?

Your cranberry sauce is ready when most berries have popped and it thickens slightly.

Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to one week.

What can I serve with cranberry sauce?

Pair it with turkey, ham, or enjoy it as a spread on sandwiches!

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Easy 4 Ingredient Cranberry Sauce


  • Author: Teprod
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

Description

Elevate your holiday meals with this Easy 4 Ingredient Cranberry Sauce. Bursting with sweet and tart flavors, this vibrant sauce is the perfect accompaniment to turkey, ham, or even as a spread on sandwiches. With just four simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dish that brings joy to every gathering. Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of homemade cranberry sauce that’s quick and effortless to prepare.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Rinse fresh cranberries under cold water, removing any stems or bad berries.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water over medium heat.
  3. Stir gently until the mixture begins to bubble.
  4. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  5. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup (125g)
  • Calories: 105
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 1mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: <1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Feel free to add orange zest or cinnamon for extra flavor. This sauce can be made ahead of time; it keeps well in the fridge for up to one week.

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