12 Delicious Cranberry Sauce Recipes You Must Try

Oh, the joys of cranberry sauce—it’s not just for Thanksgiving anymore! Whether you’re a fan of the classic or eager to explore bold new flavors, our roundup of 12 Delicious Cranberry Sauce Recipes is your ticket to transforming this seasonal favorite into a year-round delight. From sweet to savory, quick fixes to gourmet twists, there’s a recipe here to inspire every home cook. Let’s dive in!

Classic Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Nothing says holiday feast like a side of homemade cranberry sauce. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this tangy, sweet condiment that beats the canned version any day.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries, washed and picked over
• 1 cup granulated sugar, for a sweet balance
• 1 cup water, to create the perfect syrup
• 1 orange, zested and juiced, for a bright citrus note
• 1 cinnamon stick, for a warm spice undertone

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Stir gently to mix.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
3. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Add the orange zest, orange juice, and cinnamon stick. Stir to incorporate.
4. Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Tip: Listen for the cranberries to pop—that’s your cue it’s working!
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Take out the cinnamon stick and discard it. Tip: For a smoother sauce, press it through a fine mesh strainer to remove any skins.
6. Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before serving. Tip: It will thicken more as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit thin at first.

Rich with the flavors of orange and cinnamon, this cranberry sauce is a vibrant addition to your holiday table. Try it spread on leftover turkey sandwiches for a festive twist.

Orange Zest Cranberry Sauce

Orange zest cranberry sauce is the perfect blend of tart and sweet, with a citrusy kick that’ll brighten up any holiday table. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, and the way it makes your kitchen smell like a winter wonderland.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries, rinsed and picked over
• 1 cup granulated sugar, for that perfect sweetness
• 1 cup fresh orange juice, squeezed from juicy oranges
• 1 tablespoon orange zest, finely grated for a burst of flavor
• 1/2 cup water, to help everything meld together
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, for a warm spice note
• 1/8 teaspoon salt, to balance the flavors

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, orange zest, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool for 5 minutes. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
5. Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Great for pairing with your favorite holiday dishes, this orange zest cranberry sauce offers a delightful contrast of textures—from the pop of whole cranberries to the smooth, jam-like consistency. Try it alongside roasted turkey or spread on a leftover sandwich for a festive twist.

Spiced Cranberry Sauce with Cinnamon

Believe it or not, this spiced cranberry sauce is the perfect blend of tart and sweet, with a warm cinnamon kick that’ll make your holiday meals unforgettable.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries, washed and picked over
• 1 cup granulated sugar, for a sweet balance
• 1/2 cup water, to help dissolve the sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick, for that warm, spicy aroma
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, for a subtle depth
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, to enhance all the flavors

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, cinnamon stick, ground cloves, and salt.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely, about 5 minutes.
3. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Tip: The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and discard the cinnamon stick. Let the sauce cool to room temperature. Tip: For a smoother sauce, you can mash the cranberries lightly with a fork before cooling.

Lusciously thick with a vibrant color, this spiced cranberry sauce is not just for turkey. Try it swirled into yogurt or as a topping for vanilla ice cream for a delightful twist.

Maple Walnut Cranberry Sauce

Hey, you know how holiday meals can feel a bit predictable? This maple walnut cranberry sauce is here to shake things up. It’s sweet, tangy, and packed with crunch—perfect for elevating your roast or even just spooning over yogurt.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh cranberries, plump and vibrant
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, rich and amber-colored
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted to golden perfection
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp fresh orange zest, brightly fragrant
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, warm and aromatic
• A pinch of sea salt, finely ground

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, maple syrup, water, orange zest, cinnamon, and sea salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly. Tip: Listen for the cranberries to pop—it’s your cue they’re ready.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the toasted walnuts. Tip: Toasting the walnuts beforehand enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
5. Let the sauce cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: The sauce will thicken more as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit thin at first.

Velvety with a hint of spice, this sauce strikes a beautiful balance between sweet and tart. Try it dolloped on warm brie or as a bold sandwich spread for a festive twist.

Bourbon Infused Cranberry Sauce

Now, imagine elevating your holiday table with a sauce that’s both familiar and excitingly different. This bourbon-infused cranberry sauce brings a warm, spirited twist to the classic, making it a standout side that’s as easy to make as it is impressive.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh cranberries, bright and tart
• 1 cup granulated sugar, for that perfect sweetness
• 1/2 cup water, to help everything meld together
• 1/4 cup bourbon, choose a smooth, high-quality brand
• 1 tsp orange zest, finely grated for a citrusy punch
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon, ground for a hint of warmth

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Stir gently to mix.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce starts to thicken.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully stir in the bourbon, orange zest, and cinnamon. Tip: The alcohol will cook off, leaving just the rich flavor.
5. Return the saucepan to low heat. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Tip: Keep an eye on the consistency; it should coat the back of a spoon.
6. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving. Tip: It thickens as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit thin at first.

After cooling, this sauce transforms into a glossy, jam-like consistency with a bold flavor profile—sweet, tart, and with a bourbon warmth that lingers. Try it alongside your favorite roasted meats or spread on a morning toast for a festive twist.

Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce

Got a slow cooker and a love for tangy, sweet flavors? You’re in for a treat with this effortless slow cooker cranberry sauce that’ll steal the show at any meal.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries, washed and picked over
• 1 cup granulated sugar, for that perfect sweetness
• 1/2 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed for a bright citrus note
• 1/2 cup water, to help everything meld together beautifully
• 1 cinnamon stick, for a warm, spicy undertone
• 1/4 tsp salt, to balance the flavors

Instructions

1. Combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, cinnamon stick, and salt in your slow cooker. Tip: Give it a gentle stir to ensure the sugar starts dissolving.
2. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours. Tip: Resist the urge to stir too often to keep the cranberries intact.
3. After 3 hours, remove the lid and stir the sauce. The cranberries should be burst and the sauce thickened. Tip: If you prefer a smoother sauce, mash it lightly with a fork.
4. Let the sauce cool in the slow cooker with the lid off for about 30 minutes to thicken further. Then, remove the cinnamon stick.

What you’ll love about this sauce is its perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a hint of warmth from the cinnamon. Serve it chilled or warm, alongside your holiday turkey or swirled into morning yogurt for a festive twist.

Pomegranate Cranberry Sauce

Guess what? You’re about to make the easiest, most vibrant pomegranate cranberry sauce that’ll steal the show at any dinner table. It’s sweet, tangy, and packed with flavors that complement everything from turkey to toast.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh cranberries, plump and bright red
• 1 cup pomegranate juice, 100% pure and deeply ruby-colored
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar, for that perfect sweetness
• 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed for a zesty kick
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, warm and aromatic
• 1/4 tsp salt, to balance the flavors

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, pomegranate juice, and granulated sugar. Stir gently to mix.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Tip: Keep an eye on the heat to avoid boiling over.
3. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Add the lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.
4. Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst open and the sauce thickens slightly. Tip: The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the sauce to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Tip: For a smoother texture, you can lightly mash the cranberries with a fork.

Just like that, you’ve got a sauce that’s bursting with juicy cranberries and the exotic sweetness of pomegranate. Serve it chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite dishes, or get creative by swirling it into yogurt for a festive breakfast treat.

Ginger Pear Cranberry Sauce

Unbelievably easy to whip up, this Ginger Pear Cranberry Sauce is your go-to for adding a sweet and spicy kick to any meal. You’ll love how the flavors come together, creating a perfect balance that’s both refreshing and comforting.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cranberries, bright and tart
• 1 large ripe pear, peeled and diced into small chunks
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar, for just the right sweetness
• 1/4 cup water, to help everything meld together
• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger, for a warm, spicy note
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon, ground for a hint of warmth

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, diced pear, sugar, and water. Stir gently to mix.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Add the grated ginger and cinnamon, stirring to incorporate.
4. Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Tip: Keep an eye on the consistency; it should coat the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend half of it and mix back in.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl or jar. Tip: Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Delightfully chunky with bursts of cranberry and soft pear, this sauce brings a festive flair to your table. Try it alongside roasted meats or spread on toast for a breakfast twist.

Apple Cider Cranberry Sauce

Kick off your holiday meal with a twist on the classic cranberry sauce. This apple cider cranberry sauce is a game-changer, blending tart cranberries with sweet apple cider for a perfectly balanced side. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and it’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh cranberries, washed and picked over
• 1 cup high-quality apple cider
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 tsp finely grated orange zest
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, apple cider, sugar, and cinnamon stick. Stir to mix.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the orange zest and butter until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
4. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Creamy and rich with a hint of citrus, this sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey or pork. For a creative twist, try it as a spread on your morning toast or stirred into yogurt.

Rosemary Cranberry Sauce

Forget the store-bought stuff—this Rosemary Cranberry Sauce is a game-changer for your holiday table. You’ll love how the earthy rosemary plays with the tart cranberries, creating a sauce that’s anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries, washed and picked over
• 1 cup granulated sugar, for a sweet balance
• 1 cup water, to simmer everything to perfection
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, for that aromatic touch
• 1 teaspoon orange zest, finely grated for a citrusy kick

Instructions

1. Combine the cranberries, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently to mix.
2. Add the rosemary sprigs to the saucepan, tucking them in among the cranberries for even flavor distribution.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Fish out the rosemary sprigs and discard them. Tip: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can press it through a fine mesh sieve at this point.
5. Stir in the orange zest, mixing well to incorporate it throughout the sauce. Tip: Taste and adjust sweetness with a bit more sugar if needed, but remember it will thicken as it cools.
6. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Mmm, this sauce is a vibrant mix of sweet and tart, with a subtle herbal note from the rosemary. Serve it alongside your favorite roasted meats, or get creative by swirling it into yogurt or oatmeal for a festive breakfast twist.

Vanilla Bean Cranberry Sauce

Did you know that cranberry sauce doesn’t have to come from a can? This vanilla bean cranberry sauce is a game-changer, with its perfect balance of tart and sweet, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces of fresh, plump cranberries
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
• 1 tablespoon of fresh orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, vanilla bean seeds and pod, orange zest, and sea salt.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will burst and the sauce will thicken.
4. Remove the vanilla bean pod and discard it. Tip: For a smoother sauce, you can press it through a fine-mesh sieve.
5. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Tip: Make it ahead of time—it tastes even better the next day!
6. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Tip: This sauce also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Perfect for spooning over your holiday turkey or swirling into yogurt, this vanilla bean cranberry sauce is luxuriously thick with a vibrant, glossy finish. The vanilla adds a warm depth that makes it stand out from the usual.

Chocolate Swirl Cranberry Sauce

Zesty and unexpected, this Chocolate Swirl Cranberry Sauce is your new go-to for adding a sweet twist to traditional dishes. You’ll love how the tart cranberries and rich chocolate come together in this easy-to-make sauce.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh cranberries, washed and picked over
• 1 cup granulated sugar, for a sweet balance
• 1/2 cup water, to help dissolve the sugar
• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate chips, for a smooth swirl
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, for depth of flavor

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes.
2. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the sauce cool for 5 minutes.
4. While the sauce is still warm, gently fold in the dark chocolate chips until they melt and create swirls throughout the sauce. Tip: For more defined swirls, don’t overmix.
5. Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and let it cool to room temperature before serving. Tip: The sauce will thicken as it cools.
6. For an extra touch, serve the sauce slightly warm to enhance the chocolate’s aroma. Tip: Pair it with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Rich and velvety, this sauce boasts a perfect harmony of tart and sweet with luxurious chocolate swirls. Try it drizzled over pancakes or as a unique topping for cheesecake.

Conclusion

Let these 12 Delicious Cranberry Sauce Recipes inspire your next meal or holiday gathering! From classic to creative, there’s a flavor for everyone. We’d love to hear which recipe becomes your favorite—drop us a comment below. Loved what you saw? Share the cranberry love by pinning this article on Pinterest for others to enjoy. Happy cooking!