Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water (or substitute with orange juice for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Pick through the cranberries and remove any soft or bruised berries. Rinse the good berries under cold water in a colander.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water (or orange juice). Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the cranberries to the boiling liquid. If you are using a cinnamon stick, add it now.
- Return the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. You will hear the cranberries popping as they cook. Stir occasionally.
- Once most of the berries have popped and the sauce starts to thicken, remove the pan from the heat.
- Stir in the orange zest and a pinch of salt if using.
- Remove the cinnamon stick before serving.
- Let the sauce cool completely at room temperature. It will thicken significantly as it cools. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Cook Time: 15 minutes