This baked cranberry sauce is a bright and tangy treat that pairs perfectly with your holiday dishes! It’s simple to make, with fresh cranberries, sugar, and a hint of orange zest.
Plus, the aroma while it bakes is just divine! I love to make this ahead of time and let it chill—it’s sweet, tart, and definitely a family favorite! 🍊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Cranberries: The star of the show! They provide tartness and pop when cooked. If fresh aren’t available, frozen cranberries work just fine—just don’t thaw them first.
Sugar: Granulated sugar helps balance the tartness of the cranberries. You can use brown sugar for a richer flavor, or even honey or maple syrup if you prefer a natural sweetener.
Orange Juice and Zest: These add brightness and depth of flavor. If you’re out of fresh oranges, bottled juice will do, but fresh is always best! Lime juice can also work for a twist.
Pecans or Walnuts: These are optional, but I love the crunch they bring! Feel free to skip them or substitute with almonds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
How Do You Ensure Your Cranberry Sauce Turns Out Thick and Delicious?
Getting the right consistency is key in baked cranberry sauce. The cranberries need time in the oven to burst and release their juices, which helps thicken the sauce. Remember to stir every 15 minutes to promote even cooking.
- Mix the ingredients well before baking to evenly distribute the sugar and salt.
- Keep an eye on it during the last 15 minutes; you want it bubbly yet not overly thick, as it will thicken more while cooling.
Baked Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for garnish)
- Orange slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked cranberry sauce takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to 1 hour to bake. Plan for an additional 10 minutes of cooling time before serving. Overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the oven is hot enough when you put your cranberry mixture in!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium baking dish, combine the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and salt. Stir all the ingredients together until the sugar is mostly dissolved and everything is well mixed.
3. Bake the Sauce:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Remember to stir it every 15 minutes to help the cranberries burst and the sauce thicken. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and thickening beautifully!
4. Cool the Sauce:
Once it’s thickened, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the cranberry sauce cool for about 10 minutes. It will continue to thicken as it cools, making it perfect for serving!
5. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, stir in or sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a lovely crunch. Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and add fresh orange slices on top for a bright touch.
6. Enjoy:
Your vibrant and flavorful baked cranberry sauce is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm or chilled alongside your favorite holiday dishes, and watch everyone enjoy this delightful addition to the table!
Happy cooking! 🍊
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly! Just toss them in straight from the freezer without thawing. The baking time may remain the same, but keep an eye on the sauce to ensure it reaches the right consistency.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the sugar by up to half; you can always taste it as it bakes and add more if needed. For a natural sweetness, you might also try honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can enjoy the sauce cold or gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day or two in advance. Store it in the fridge, and simply give it a quick stir before serving. It tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld!
