This Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce is a festive blend of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and cozy cinnamon. It’s perfect for holiday meals but tasty any time of the year!
Making this sauce is super easy! Just cook everything together, and the smell will make your kitchen feel like a warm hug. I love serving it with turkey or on toast for breakfast! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are the star here! They provide that needed tartness. If fresh ones are hard to find, frozen cranberries work great too. Just don’t thaw them before cooking.
Apple: For sweetness and texture, I suggest using a firm variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. If you’re looking for substitutes, Pears can also work for a different twist.
Sugar: Granulated sugar balances the tartness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, maple syrup or honey might be better, but adjust to taste since they’re sweeter.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds tang and brightness. You can use bottled juice, but look for one without added sugar. A splash of lemon juice can also work in a pinch!
How Should I Cook the Cranberry Sauce for the Best Flavor?
The cooking process is simple but crucial for flavor development. Start by mixing all the ingredients in a saucepan. One key tip is to keep a close eye while simmering. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the sauce to thicken nicely.
- Bring to a boil first, so the cranberries start to pop and release juices. Use medium-high heat.
- After boiling, lower the heat to let it simmer gently. This method creates a richer flavor as the ingredients mingle.
- Cooking for about 10-15 minutes usually does the trick. If you want a chunkier sauce, remove it from heat while some cranberries are still intact.
How to Make Delicious Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 large red apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for sprinkling)
- Optional garnish: small apple cubes and a cinnamon stick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 5 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 15 minutes cooking. So, in no time, you’ll have a delightful sauce ready for your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Everything in the Pan:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a medium saucepan, toss together the fresh cranberries, diced apple, granulated sugar, water, freshly squeezed orange juice, and the cinnamon stick. Mix it all together so everything is well distributed.
2. Bring to a Boil:
Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. As it heats up, stir it occasionally. This helps the sugar dissolve and the cranberries begin to pop, releasing their juices.
3. Simmer for Flavor:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir it now and then to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to your liking.
4. Finish It Up:
Take the saucepan off the heat and carefully remove the cinnamon stick. Transfer the sauce into a serving bowl. If you want, you can add a few small apple cubes and a cinnamon stick on top for a pretty presentation!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Lastly, sprinkle a little ground cinnamon over the top for that extra warm flavor. You can enjoy this sauce warm or let it cool and serve it chilled. It’s perfect as a side for roasted meats, on toast, or even drizzled over pancakes. Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries are a great substitute and can be used straight from the freezer. Just remember not to thaw them before cooking. They may take a couple of extra minutes to cook down, but the flavors will still be fantastic!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you find the sauce too sweet or not sweet enough, feel free to adjust the sugar. Start with 1/2 cup and taste as you cook. You can always add more if you prefer a sweeter flavor. You might even want to consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup as an alternative!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It keeps well for about 5 to 7 days in an airtight container. Just reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving to restore its delightful consistency!
What Are Some Ways to Use Leftover Sauce?
There are so many delicious ways to use leftover Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce! Try it on toast, mixed into yogurt or oatmeal, drizzled on desserts like cheesecake, or even as a topping for pancakes and waffles. It can also be used as a spread on sandwiches or paired with cheese and crackers for a tasty snack!
