Spiced Cranberry Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a bold, festive twist on a classic side, you’ll instantly fall in love with Spiced Cranberry Sauce. This jewel-toned sauce brims with tartness and aromatic warmth, blending bright cranberries with a kiss of cinnamon and cloves. It’s a must-have at any holiday table, but honestly, you’ll be tempted to spoon it on everything from oatmeal to roasted veggies. Let’s make a batch together — it’s easy, makes your kitchen smell incredible, and will become your go-to cranberry recipe year-round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create such a dynamic, flavorful Spiced Cranberry Sauce. Each component brings its own magic, from vibrant color to that perfect balance of sweet, tart, and spice.

• Fresh Cranberries: The star of the show! Use a 12 oz (340g) bag for maximum flavor and that iconic ruby hue.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds the necessary sweetness to balance the cranberries’ tart bite; don’t skip it.
• Water: Helps dissolve the sugar and tenderize the berries as they cook, creating a luscious base.
• Ground Cinnamon: Warm, comforting, and totally cozy, cinnamon infuses every bite with holiday spirit.
• Ground Cloves: Just a teaspoon transforms the sauce with deep, spiced bakery notes — trust me, it’s the secret weapon.

How to Make Spiced Cranberry Sauce

Step 1: Combine All Your Ingredients

Grab a medium saucepan and add your fresh cranberries, sugar, water, cinnamon, and cloves. There’s no need to chop or prep the cranberries — just toss everything in, and you’re already halfway to homemade Spiced Cranberry Sauce!

Step 2: Bring to a Boil

Place the pan over medium heat and stir gently as the sugar dissolves. Once the mixture comes to a lively boil, watch as the cranberries start to “pop” and release their gorgeous crimson color and natural juices.

Step 3: Simmer Gently

Immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce bubble away for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently. The berries will burst and break down, creating a thick, jammy texture. If a few berries remain whole, that’s perfect — they look beautiful and give a little texture.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

Once the Spiced Cranberry Sauce has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it cool in the pan. Transfer it to a jar or serving bowl, and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Chilling lets the flavors meld, and the sauce will thicken up even more.

How to Serve Spiced Cranberry Sauce

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of fresh orange zest or a few extra whole cranberries on top for a vibrant finish. Chopped toasted pecans also bring lovely crunch and contrast that make this Spiced Cranberry Sauce shine on the plate.

Side Dishes

Of course, this tangy sauce loves roast turkey, chicken, or even pork, but don’t stop there! Pile a spoonful on brie-topped crostini, swirl into mashed sweet potatoes, or serve alongside sharp, creamy cheeses for a dazzling appetizer board.

Creative Ways to Present

Try dolloping the Spiced Cranberry Sauce onto pancakes, swirling it into plain yogurt, or layering it in parfaits for brunch. For parties, serve it in tiny glasses or jars as part of a modern mini dessert spread — it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any extra Spiced Cranberry Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and bright for up to two weeks, ready to perk up anything from sandwiches to simple roasted veggies.

Freezing

This sauce freezes beautifully! Place cooled Spiced Cranberry Sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

You usually don’t need to reheat Spiced Cranberry Sauce — it’s lovely cold or at room temp. But if you’d like it a bit warmer for serving, gently heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well, until just softened.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh. No need to thaw before making the sauce — simply add them straight to the saucepan and follow the same directions.

Can I reduce the sugar in Spiced Cranberry Sauce?

You can cut the sugar slightly if you prefer a tangier taste, but keep in mind that cranberries are very tart. For a more subtle sweetness, try replacing half the sugar with honey or maple syrup.

How do I know when the sauce is done simmering?

The sauce is ready when most cranberries have burst and the mixture looks thick and glossy. Remember, it will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t overcook it if you like a bit of texture.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Feel free to experiment! A strip of orange or lemon zest, a splash of port wine, or even a star anise added during simmering can make your Spiced Cranberry Sauce even more extraordinary.

Is this sauce gluten-free and vegan?

Yes! Spiced Cranberry Sauce is naturally gluten-free and vegan as long as you use regular granulated sugar. Just double-check your spice labels if you have any allergies or sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

This Spiced Cranberry Sauce is more than just a holiday side dish — it’s a burst of flavor and color that lights up any meal. I can’t wait for you to taste how easy and rewarding homemade cranberry sauce can be. Give it a try and watch it become a new tradition at your table!

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