Are you tired of the same old canned cranberry sauce? This homemade cranberry sauce with maple syrup is a game-changer! It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with fresh flavor, and far surpasses anything you'll find in a can. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time you crave a sweet and tangy treat, this recipe is a delicious addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant side dish!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup maple syrup (pure maple syrup is best)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is ideal)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, but adds a wonderful aroma)
- Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm spice note)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by rinsing the cranberries thoroughly under cold water. Remove any damaged or spoiled berries.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice, water, orange zest (if using), and cinnamon (if using).
Simmer to Perfection:
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cool and Serve:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry sauce cool completely. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken further. You can serve it warm or cold, depending on your preference.
Tips for Cranberry Sauce Success:
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Fresh Cranberries are Key: Using fresh cranberries makes a significant difference in the flavor and texture of your sauce. Avoid using frozen cranberries unless absolutely necessary.
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Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet cranberry sauce, reduce the amount of maple syrup to ¾ cup. Taste and adjust as needed.
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Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices! A pinch of cloves or allspice can add a unique twist to this cranberry sauce recipe.
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Make it Ahead: This cranberry sauce can be made several days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
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Cranberry Sauce with Ginger: Add 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for a spicy kick.
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Cranberry Sauce with Orange Liqueur: For an adult twist, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of Grand Marnier or Cointreau after removing from heat.
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Cranberry Sauce with Pecans: Fold in ½ cup chopped pecans after the sauce has cooled for added crunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe yielding approximately 12 servings. Nutritional values can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
- Sugar: Approximately 20-25g
This homemade cranberry sauce with maple syrup is the perfect healthy and delicious side dish for any occasion. Its vibrant color, sweet and tart flavor profile, and ease of preparation make it a must-try recipe for both beginner and experienced cooks. Enjoy!