This tasty cranberry sauce combines the rich flavors of brown sugar and honey for a sweet twist. Perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family meals!
I love how simple it is to whip up this sauce. Just mix, simmer, and enjoy—it’s a great way to impress your guests without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are a must for this recipe. If fresh ones aren’t available, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to do not thaw them before cooking; they will cook just fine straight from the freezer.
Brown Sugar: I prefer using light brown sugar for a milder taste, but dark brown sugar adds a deeper flavor. You could substitute granulated sugar, though it will lack the caramel notes.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and a unique touch. For vegan options, use maple syrup or agave nectar. They work well and keep the sauce sweet and delicious.
Ground Cinnamon: It’s optional but adds a warm, cozy flavor to the sauce. If you’re not a cinnamon fan, you can skip it or use a pinch of nutmeg for a different spice touch.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor beautifully, but you can use bottled lemon juice if you’re in a pinch. Just use a little less, as bottled juice can be more potent.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Your Cranberry Sauce?
The secret to achieving the right texture is all in the simmering process. Here are the steps to keep in mind:
- Simmer the mixture gently. This allows the cranberries to pop and release their natural pectin, thickening the sauce.
- Keep an eye out! Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning, especially as it thickens.
- Don’t worry if it seems too watery at first; it will thicken more as it cools.
Allowing the sauce to cool completely at room temperature before serving will enhance the flavors and help it set nicely. Enjoy making this versatile sauce!
Brown Sugar Honey Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprig for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making this delicious cranberry sauce will only take around 15-20 minutes. Once prepared, allow it to cool at room temperature, which will take another 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to the perfect consistency.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse and Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. As you do this, look for any damaged or soft berries and discard them. It’s important to use only good-quality cranberries for the best flavor.
2. Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan:
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, brown sugar, and honey. Place it over medium heat and stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Keep an eye on it until the mixture starts to simmer gently.
3. Add the Cranberries:
Once the mixture is simmering, add the rinsed cranberries and the ground cinnamon (if you’re using it). Stir it all together so that the cranberries are well-coated with the sweet liquid.
4. Simmer and Thicken:
Let the cranberry mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will hear the cranberries start to pop—the sound means they are bursting and releasing their natural pectin, which helps thicken the sauce.
5. Add Brightness:
After about 10 minutes, take the saucepan off the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice. This step is key to enhancing the flavor of the sauce!
6. Cool and Set:
Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature in the saucepan. As it cools, it will thicken further. This step is important for getting that perfect saucy consistency.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooled, transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving bowl. You can garnish it with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for a lovely touch. It’s wonderful served chilled or at room temperature!
This rich, sweet cranberry sauce combines the molasses notes of brown sugar and the floral sweetness of honey, making it a perfect complement to roasted meats or festive meals. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen cranberries without thawing them first. Just add them directly to the saucepan with the other ingredients and cook as directed. They may take a minute or two longer to cook down, but the sauce will turn out great!
How Do I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Leftover cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey. Start with a little less and taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate.
How Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
This cranberry sauce is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it up to three days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it will stay fresh and flavorful—plus, the flavors will even deepen as it sits!
