This cranberry sauce is a zesty twist on a classic! Mixing tart cranberries with sweet orange marmalade gives it a bright flavor that everyone loves.
I love how this sauce adds a cheerful pop of color to my holiday table. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—just cook the ingredients until they burst with flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are the best for this recipe, but frozen cranberries work just as well! Just make sure they’re diced and not in a sauce. They balance sweetness and tartness perfectly.
Granulated Sugar: I stick with regular white sugar for that classic sweetness. If you want a healthier twist, try honey or maple syrup! Just adjust the amount to your taste since they are sweeter.
Orange Marmalade: The star ingredient! It adds a wonderful citrusy sweetness. If you’re out of marmalade, try orange jam or even apricot preserves for a unique flavor twist!
Orange Zest: Fresh zest brings so much brightness to the sauce. If you don’t have any, a splash of orange juice can give you some citrus flavor. Just keep it minimal so it doesn’t make the sauce too watery!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
Getting the right consistency in cranberry sauce is key! Here are a few tips:
- Start by bringing the cranberries, sugar, and water to a boil. Stir occasionally to help dissolve the sugar and break down the cranberries.
- Don’t rush the simmering process. Cooking for about 10 minutes allows the cranberries to burst and thicken the sauce as it cooks.
- If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice; if it’s too runny, let it simmer a bit longer.
- Once you mix in the marmalade, allow it to heat through so everything melds perfectly.
Letting it cool will help the sauce thicken even more, making it the perfect complement to your holiday meals!
How to Make Cranberry Sauce With Orange Marmalade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces (about 3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup orange marmalade
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for extra brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry sauce recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of cooking time, plus some extra cooling time. It’s quick to prepare, and once it’s chilled, it will be ready to serve as a delightful side dish for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water. Check for any stems or damaged berries and set the clean cranberries aside. This little step ensures you have the freshest flavor!
2. Cook the Cranberries:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, granulated sugar, and water. Turn the heat up to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally to help the sugar dissolve and start breaking down those cranberries.
3. Simmer to Thicken:
Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally until most of the cranberries have burst, creating a lovely thick sauce.
4. Add the Orange Marmalade:
Stir in the orange marmalade and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This adds a sweet, citrusy flavor that complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
5. Finish with Zest and Optional Lemon Juice:
Once the marmalade is well mixed in, remove the saucepan from the heat. Fold in the fresh orange zest for that zesty kick (and lemon juice if you’re using it). This step brightens up the flavors!
6. Cool the Sauce:
Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will thicken up even more, which is exactly what you want for that perfect cranberry sauce consistency.
7. Serve Your Sauce:
Once cooled, transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving dish. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic sweet and tangy accompaniment to roasted meats or as part of your holiday spread!
Enjoy your vibrant cranberry sauce with the bright zing of orange marmalade! It’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Dried Cranberries Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
It’s best to use fresh or frozen cranberries for this recipe since dried cranberries won’t provide the same texture or tartness. If you must use dried cranberries, rehydrate them in warm water or juice before cooking.
How Long Does This Cranberry Sauce Last?
This cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Is It Possible to Reduce the Sugar in This Recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet sauce! Start by cutting the sugar by a quarter, and taste as you go to find the sweetness level that works for you. Just keep in mind that sugar helps with the overall flavor and preservation!
Can I Make This Sauce Spicier?
Absolutely! For a bit of warmth, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy flavor. Just start with a small amount and adjust to your preference!