How do I fix cranberry sauce that's too sweet?

If your sauce is too sweet, add something acidic and slightly bitter , like a splash of red wine or orange liqueur. A pinch of salt should also help balance the flavors. If the sweetness overwhelms the other flavors, try adding in extra orange zest.

How can you make cranberry sauce less tart?

The short answer: more sugar. However, if you're not wanting to increase the amount of sugar, try adding a finely diced, peeled apple or pear to your sauce for natural sweetness . It may have to cook down for a few extra minutes to soften.

Can you freeze cranberry sauce?

Yes. Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Can you use frozen cranberries?

Yes, absolutely! Frozen cranberries are often less expensive than fresh and easier to find. We always keep a bag in the freezer (they're also great in smoothies!). No need to defrost them – simply add to the recipe as usual.

How do you make cranberry sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, crank up the heat and let the cranberries simmer and reduce. The longer it cooks, the thicker the sauce should be.

Should cranberry sauce be served hot or cold?

Cranberry sauce can be served warm, room temperature or cold . It's completely up to you. I personally prefer it warmed up, but it's great straight from the fridge with Thanksgiving leftovers!

Can I freeze leftover cranberries?

Yes, you can also freeze fresh cranberries to use throughout the year. Spread fresh cranberries in an even layer on a sheet pan and freeze. Transfer to a sealed bag or container and store for 6+ months.

Easy Cranberry Sauce (Naturally Sweetened)

Name: Easy Cranberry Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries; 1 large orange, juiced (~1/4 cup of juice)*; 1 tsp orange zest; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tbsp Cointreau or Grand Marnier (or another orange liqueur)

Description

Our go-to family recipe for homemade cranberry sauce is made with mandarin orange juice and zest, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, and spiced with cinnamon. Plus, with just 5 ingredients and 20 minutes of cook time, it's quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 large orange, juiced (~1/4 cup of juice)*
1 tsp orange zest
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tbsp Cointreau or Grand Marnier (or another orange liqueur)

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Instructions

Add all ingredients to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir well, then bring to a simmer.
The cranberries will start to pop as they soften. Give the sauce a stir every once in a while to make sure nothing is sticking to the bottom.
Once the cranberries are softened (about 10-15 minutes of simmering), use the back of a wooden spoon or a masher to gently mash them. Once mashed, the sauce will start to thicken.
Remove from heat and serve warm, or refrigerate before serving if preferred. You can make this cranberry sauce up to 7-10 days ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

*For extra flavorful cranberry sauce, try using mandarin or tangerine juice!

Use slightly less maple syrup if you prefer your cranberry sauce extra tart.

Storage: You can make this cranberry sauce up to 7-10 days ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

You can use frozen cranberries, which are often less expensive than fresh and easier to find. No need to defrost them – simply add to the recipe as usual.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Side
Calories: 68
Sugar: 10.7 g
Sodium: 3.1 mg
Fat: 0.1 g
Carbohydrates: 16.1 g
Fiber: 2.1 g
Protein: 0.3 g