This bright and tangy cranberry sauce has a special twist with orange marmalade! It’s a perfect blend of sweet and tart, making it an ideal side for holiday meals.
I love how easy it is to make—just mix the ingredients, let it simmer, and you’re done! Plus, the orange adds a delightful citrus zing that makes it really special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for this sauce as they hold their shape and provide that lovely tartness. If they’re out of season, frozen cranberries work perfectly as a substitute, just make sure to rinse and pick them first.
Orange Marmalade: This is a key ingredient that adds sweetness and a citrus punch. If you don’t have it, you can use orange juice and a bit of extra sugar. Another option could be apricot preserves for a different but equally tasty flavor.
Granulated Sugar: The sugar balances the tartness of the cranberries. You can reduce the amount or use honey or maple syrup for a natural alternative. Just keep in mind that the sauce may turn out a bit different in flavor.
Orange Zest: While optional, it really enhances the orange flavor. If you don’t have fresh oranges, you can use a bit of bottled orange juice instead.
How Do I Get My Cranberries to Burst Perfectly?
Getting those cranberries to burst just right is key to a great sauce! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by bringing the mixture of cranberries, sugar, and water to a rolling boil. This heavy heat helps the berries break down quickly.
- Once boiling, turn the heat down to medium-low and give it time—around 10 minutes should do. Stir occasionally to keep everything from sticking.
- Watch for the cranberries to burst; once they do, it shows they are releasing their natural juices, which helps thicken the sauce.
Enjoy making this sauce ahead of time; it tastes even better after sitting a day in the fridge! Perfect for holiday feasts or any special meal.
a serving bowl or jar. Cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve it. It’s best served chilled, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
This cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or pork, making it a versatile addition to your holiday table. The sweet and tangy twist from the orange marmalade is sure to impress your guests and elevate your meal!
Cranberry Sauce With Orange Marmalade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 1 tsp orange zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 20 minutes of cooking time. So, you’re looking at around 35 minutes in total! It’s an easy and quick side dish that can be made ahead of time, making your holiday meal prep a breeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Rinse the cranberries under cold water in a colander. Take a moment to pick out any stems or damaged berries; you want the freshest ones for your sauce!
2. Cook the Cranberries:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, sugar, and water. Set the stove to medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally to help the sugar dissolve.
3. Simmer the Mixture:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries start to burst. This is where all those delicious tart juices come out!
4. Add Orange Marmalade and Flavor:
Stir in the orange marmalade, optional orange zest, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Keep simmering for another 5 minutes. This step helps the sauce thicken up and blends all those yummy flavors together.
5. Cool the Sauce:
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool down to room temperature. It will continue to get thicker as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a bit runny at first!
6. Refrigerate and Serve:
Once cooled, transfer the cranberry sauce to
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just rinse them under cold water before using, and there’s no need to thaw them beforehand.
How Long Can I Store the Cranberry Sauce?
You can store the cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the flavors can settle.
Can I Make This Sauce in Advance?
Yes, making it a day in advance is a great idea! The flavors deepen and improve after sitting in the fridge overnight. Just reheat it gently on the stove if you prefer it warm.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup or more to taste. You can also add more orange marmalade to maintain some sweetness while adjusting the sugar content.
