Side Dish: United States – Classic Cranberry Sauce

Food safety reminder: Follow safe food-handling practices and use a food thermometer to verify safe internal cooking temperatures.

Serving Size: 6

Approximate Time

Prep 5 min

Cook 15 min

Additional 15 min

Total 35 min

Ingredients

U.S. measurements first, metric equivalents in parentheses. Conversions are approximate; oz means weight ounces, not fluid ounces.

12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries (about 3 cups (720 ml))
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
1 cup (240 ml) water or orange juice (or 1 / 2 cup (120 ml) each)
Zest of 1 orange (optional)
Pinch of salt

Show original ingredient measurements

12 oz / 340 g fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
1 cup (240 ml) water or orange juice (or 1 / 2 cup / 120 ml each)
Zest of 1 orange (optional)
Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water (or juice) and bring to a simmer to dissolve the sugar.  
2. Add cranberries and orange zest, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.  
3. Cook until cranberries burst and sauce thickens, about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.  
4. Taste and adjust sweetness; add a pinch of salt to balance flavors.  
5. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature; sauce will thicken further in the refrigerator.  
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.