This No Cook Cranberry Sauce is super easy and perfect for the holidays! You just mix fresh cranberries with sugar and a few other tasty ingredients. It’s bright, festive, and full of flavor!
This sauce is a great way to add color and taste to your meal without turning on the stove. I love how I can make it ahead of time and it just gets better in the fridge! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Cranberries: The star of this recipe! Make sure they are bright and firm. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen ones can work, but don’t thaw them before using as they might get mushy!
Sugar: This balances the tartness of the cranberries. If you want a healthier option, try using honey or maple syrup. Just remember to adjust the amounts since they are sweeter than granulated sugar!
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled orange juice is fine. You could also switch it up with apple juice for a different twist!
Lemon Juice: This adds acidity and brightness. If you don’t have lemon juice, a splash of vinegar can also work. It keeps everything tangy!
Ground Cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances flavors. If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, feel free to leave it out or use allspice as a substitute for a similar warm flavor.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for My Cranberry Sauce?
When making this sauce, achieving the perfect texture is key! You’ll want it to be slightly chunky but well-combined. Start with gently mashing the cranberries just enough so they break down and release their juices, but don’t overdo it.
- Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon, and be patient – it will come together nicely!
- Let the sauce chill in the fridge for several hours. This helps everything marry together and thicken naturally.
- Before serving, a gentle stir helps smooth out any lumps while retaining some chunks for that homemade feel.
Don’t rush it, and enjoy the process! You’ll have a delicious and fresh sauce that everyone will love.
How to Make No Cook Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed recommended)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Zest of 1 orange (optional for extra brightness)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep and then at least 4 hours to chill in the fridge—though overnight is best! That means you can whip it up ahead of time and it will be ready to serve when you are. Easy-peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water in a colander. Pick out any that are squishy or discolored. Drain them well so they’re ready for mixing!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the rinsed cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, lemon juice, and if you like, the zest of one orange and the ground cinnamon. This combination brings together all the vibrant flavors!
3. Mash the Cranberries:
Take a potato masher or the back of a spoon, and gently mash the cranberries. You want them to release their juices but still have some chunks for texture. It should start to thicken up nicely.
4. Chill in the Fridge:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! This resting time is where all the flavors come together beautifully.
5. Serve the Sauce:
When you’re ready to enjoy, give the cranberry sauce a gentle stir to combine everything. Transfer it to a nice serving bowl. If you’d like, garnish it with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a great festive touch!
6. Enjoy!
This sauce can be served chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite dishes. It’s a delightful, tangy, and sweet addition to any meal!
This no cook cranberry sauce is not only easy and quick to make, but it also brings that fresh cranberry flavor everyone loves. Perfect for the holidays or any time you want a burst of flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to leave them frozen until you’re ready to mix them into the recipe. Don’t thaw them beforehand, as this can make them mushy.
How Sweet Should the Sauce Be?
The sweetness of the sauce can be adjusted based on your personal tastes. If you prefer a tangier sauce, you can reduce the sugar slightly. Start with 1/2 cup and taste as you go!
How Long Does This Sauce Last in the Fridge?
This cranberry sauce will last about 1 week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Spices?
Absolutely! You can mix in other fruits like diced apples or pears for added sweetness, or try spices like ginger or nutmeg for a different flavor profile. Get creative!
