There’s nothing quite like homemade cranberry sauce to bring brightness to any holiday table.
This Cranberry Sauce Recipe with Orange Juice combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweet, citrusy flavor of orange for a perfectly balanced sauce.
It’s quick to make, beautifully vibrant, and so much better than anything from a can.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cranberry sauce is fresh, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients you likely already have.
The natural tartness of cranberries pairs perfectly with orange juice and zest for a festive flavor.
It’s ready in under 20 minutes and can be made ahead, saving you time during the holidays.
You can easily adjust the sweetness or add extra spices to suit your taste.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Fresh or frozen cranberries bring that signature tart flavor and rich red color.
Orange juice and zest add a citrusy brightness that complements the cranberries beautifully.
Cinnamon sticks infuse the sauce with warmth and depth.
Sugar balances the tartness and creates a glossy, jam-like consistency.
A hint of ginger or orange extract adds a lovely aromatic twist if you want more complexity.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use fresh cranberries if possible — they burst more easily and make a thicker sauce.
Don’t skip the orange zest; it gives a bright, natural citrus fragrance.
Cook the sauce slowly once it reaches a boil to let it thicken without burning.
Taste before cooling — if you prefer it sweeter, stir in a little extra sugar while it’s still warm.
Make it a day ahead to let the flavors blend and deepen overnight.
How to Make Cranberry Sauce with Orange Juice
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water.
Stir everything together and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, add orange zest, cinnamon sticks, and orange extract if using.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently.
Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most cranberries have burst and the sauce starts to thicken.
Step 3: Cool and Finish
Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon sticks.
Let the sauce cool completely at room temperature — it will continue to thicken as it cools.
Once cooled, serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
What to Serve Them With
This cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, or pork.
Spread it on sandwiches, toast, or scones for a sweet-tart breakfast treat.
It also makes an elegant topping for cheesecakes, yogurt, or vanilla ice cream.
Variations / Substitutions
Add a splash of Grand Marnier or brandy for a grown-up twist.
Use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness.
Stir in chopped apples or pears for added texture and flavor.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a holiday spice variation.
Storage & Leftovers
Store the cooled cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
You can also freeze it for up to 2 months — just thaw in the fridge before serving.
The flavor improves over time, making it ideal for meal prep before a big dinner.
FAQs
Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after a day or two in the fridge as the flavors meld.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely. No need to thaw them — just cook directly from frozen.
What if I don’t have orange juice?
You can substitute with apple juice or pomegranate juice for a different flavor.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but remember that sugar helps the sauce set and balances tartness. Start with less and add more to taste.
Can I make this recipe without cinnamon?
Of course — it’s optional, but it adds lovely warmth.
Why did my sauce come out too thin?
It likely needs more simmering time. Continue cooking until it thickens.
Can I add other fruits?
Yes, diced apples, pears, or even pineapple make delicious additions.
Is this sauce vegan-friendly?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally plant-based.
Can I use sweetened cranberry juice instead of orange juice?
You can, but reduce the sugar slightly to prevent it from becoming overly sweet.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Just use a larger pot and increase the cooking time slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Sauce Recipe with Orange Juice is bright, tangy, and full of holiday cheer.
It’s a simple yet elegant side dish that brings color and freshness to any meal.
Once you try homemade cranberry sauce, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.
