Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe

5 from 1 vote

This is the homemade cranberry sauce recipe people will actually be begging you for! This recipe is a little different than others — it's still a super simple stovetop recipe (ready in just 15 minutes) but the addition of maple syrup and a touch of pomegranate juice is what makes this recipe really shine. Don't forget the fresh orange juice! This is an easy make ahead recipe for your gathering you will be glad you added to your holiday menu.

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: Side Dish

Diet:

Servings:

Calories: 152kcal

Author: Allie Petersen

Equipment

medium-sized pot

Ingredients

1/2 cup granulated white sugar
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/3 cup water if using pomegranate juice, reduce to 2 tbsp
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice about 2 large oranges
12 oz fresh cranberries not dried, sift through to remove bruised/damaged ones
3 tbsp pomegranate juice optional

Instructions

Dissolve sugars: Simply start by warming your white sugar, maple syrup, water, orange juice, and pomegranate juice over the stove in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
1/2 cup granulated white sugar, 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1/3 cup water, 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, 3 tbsp pomegranate juice
Simmer cranberries: Turn up the heat to medium/high. Add your cranberries and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, turn it down so the mixture is simmering. Simmer for about 10 minutes (uncovered), stirring occasionally, or until the mixture has thickened to your liking.
Tip: Intermittently use the back of the spoon to crush the cranberries.
Be careful - the cranberries will start to pop! I usually keep a little distance when I stir them.
12 oz fresh cranberries
Taste test: Once your mixture is thickened and you've crushed the cranberries to create your desired texture, take it off the heat. Give it a little taste and feel free to add a little extra maple syrup if you like yours sweeter.
Serve right away or chill in the fridge until it's time to serve.

Notes

Common questions

Can I use orange juice from a carton rather than fresh?

Yes, you can. I think fresh will taste the best but if you use a high-quality OJ it will still be good!

What is the purpose of adding pomegranate juice?

This adds a vibrance in flavor and color! It is not a requirement, but it makes this recipe really stand out from the rest.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yep! This cranberry sauce can be made days in advance before your holiday gathering. It can even last up to a week in the fridge, but I don't recommend necessarily making it that far in advance.

Nutrition