Easy and Delicious Recipe for Simple Cranberry Sauce: A Perfect Addition to Your Holiday Feast

#### Recipe for Simple Cranberry SauceCranberry sauce is a classic accompaniment to holiday meals, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. This easy r……

#### Recipe for Simple Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is a classic accompaniment to holiday meals, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. This easy recipe for simple cranberry sauce will not only elevate your festive dining experience but also impress your guests with its homemade goodness.

#### Ingredients

To make this delightful cranberry sauce, you will need:

- Fresh cranberries: 12 ounces (about 3 cups)

- Granulated sugar: 1 cup

- Water: 1 cup

- Orange zest: 1 teaspoon (optional)

- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Ingredients**: Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Remove any stems or damaged berries. If you choose to use orange zest or cinnamon, gather those ingredients as well.

2. **Cook the Cranberries**: In a medium saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar has completely dissolved. Add the rinsed cranberries to the saucepan.

3. **Simmer**: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. You will notice the cranberries begin to burst and pop, releasing their natural juices. This process typically takes about 10 minutes. If you’re adding orange zest or cinnamon, stir them in at this point.

4. **Cool and Thicken**: After the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the sauce to cool at room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

5. **Serve**: Once cooled, transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving dish or an airtight container for storage. This sauce can be served immediately or refrigerated for up to a week. It’s fantastic served cold or at room temperature.

#### Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Sauce

- **Sweetness Adjustment**: Depending on your taste preferences, you can adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe. If you prefer a tart sauce, reduce the sugar by half.

- **Additions and Variations**: Feel free to experiment with additional flavors. Some popular variations include adding chopped apples, walnuts, or even a splash of red wine for a sophisticated twist.

- **Make Ahead**: This cranberry sauce can be made several days in advance, making it a convenient option for busy holiday preparations. Just store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

#### Conclusion

This recipe for simple cranberry sauce is not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to add a burst of flavor to your holiday meals. The balance of tartness from the cranberries and sweetness from the sugar creates a delicious contrast that pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, or even as a spread on sandwiches. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this cranberry sauce is sure to become a beloved staple in your holiday traditions. Enjoy the festivities with this homemade treat that captures the essence of the season!