If you're looking for a cranberry sauce that stands out on the holiday table, this Maple Orange Cranberry Sauce is your ticket. It's a sweet-tart delight with a fragrant hint of citrus and warm spices that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Cranberries bring that signature tartness and a burst of color. They're the star of this sauce, so fresh is best!
Pure maple syrup serves as the sweetener, providing a deep, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries.
Freshly squeezed orange juice adds a natural sweetness and acidity that complements the cranberries perfectly.
Orange zest enhances the citrus notes, giving the sauce a fragrant, aromatic quality.
Ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth, making the sauce feel cozy and festive.
Salt is a small but mighty addition that balances the flavors, enhancing the sauce's overall taste.
This sauce pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or chicken, adding a sweet-tart contrast. It's also delicious spooned over brie or camembert cheese as an appetizer, or even served alongside a slice of pound cake for dessert.
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water. This quick step ensures they're clean and free from any dirt or debris. As you rinse, keep an eye out for any soft or bruised berries and discard those; you want only the freshest cranberries for the best flavor.
Next, grab a medium saucepan and pour in the maple syrup and freshly squeezed orange juice. Place the pan over medium heat, giving it a gentle stir to combine these two liquid ingredients as they warm up.
Now, it’s time to add the stars of the show: the cranberries. Toss them into the saucepan along with the orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together to ensure the cranberries are well-coated and the spices are evenly distributed.
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. This is where the magic happens — the cranberries will begin to burst and the sauce will thicken. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once your sauce has thickened and the cranberries have all burst, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a serving dish. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully.
For the final touch, refrigerate the sauce for at least 2 hours before serving. This step not only enhances the flavors but also gives the sauce a chance to set to the perfect consistency.
Share