Easy Orange Ginger Cranberry Sauce Recipe

OMG, I am obsessed with this cranberry sauce recipe because it’s literally the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, with a zing from the fresh ginger that totally elevates the Thanksgiving table. Plus, it’s super easy to make, and the fresh orange zest adds an extra burst of flavor that makes it taste like pure holiday magic!

Writing recipes that come together with sweet-and-tangy flavors is a specialty of mine. That is why I am so excited to share this one with you.

My Easy Orange Ginger Cranberry Sauce is a holiday staple in my family. With 12 ounces of fresh or frozen cranberries and 1 cup of granulated sugar combined with the zest and juice of an orange, I can hardly think of a more-perfect cranberry sauce.

The addition of fresh ginger increases the ease with which this sauce delivers delightful holiday flavors, while a pinch of salt balances the sweetness.

Ingredients

Cranberries:
High in antioxidants and fiber, they are naturally tart.

Granulated Sugar:
Includes sweetness to counteract the tartness of the cranberry.

Fresh Orange Juice:
Contributes the sweet, citrusy flavor and a jolt of vitamin C.

Orange Zest:
Enriches taste with fragrant essences and tartness.

Fresh Ginger:
Contributes friendliness, flavor, and healthful effects on the digestive system.

Ingredient Quantities

• 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 cup water
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Wash the cranberries in cold water and dispose of any that are soft or spoiled.

2. In a medium saucepan, mix together the cranberries, granulated sugar, and water.

3. In the saucepan, combine the new orange juice, the orange zest, and the freshly grated ginger to make a smooth mixture.

4. Combine the ingredients completely and heat them over medium-high heat until they reach a rolling boil.

5. Decrease the heat to medium-low and carry on cooking, stirring now and then, until the cranberries pop and the sauce narrows, which should take about 10-15 minutes.

6. To elevate the flavors and make them pop, add a pinch of salt. Stir well to incorporate it fully into the mixture.

7. Sample the sauce and, if necessary, adjust the sweetness by adding a little more sugar.

8. Take the saucepan off the heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature.

9. Pour the sauce into a dish suitable for serving or into a container that can be sealed airtight.

10. Chill until it’s time to serve or serve as an accompaniment with your meal in the moment.

Equipment Needed

1. Colander or strainer
2. Medium saucepan
3. Measuring cups
4. Measuring spoons
5. Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
6. Microplane or zester
7. Grater
8. Knife
9. Cutting board
10. Serving dish or airtight container

FAQ

• What can I use if I don’t have fresh ginger?Substituting 1 teaspoon of ground ginger for fresh ginger will yield a more vibrant flavor.
• Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?For the preferred texture and tartness in this recipe, use fresh or frozen cranberries; they’re essential to achieving the right results. Dried cranberries will not work as a substitute.
• Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?Bottled juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh orange juice is preferable for its bright, vibrant taste. Use only 100% orange juice from a reliable source, as some bottled juices contain additives that can alter the flavor of the finished product.
• What’s the best way to store leftovers?Put any remaining cranberry sauce in a sealed container and keep it in the fridge. It will stay good for a week. You can also freeze it. If you do, you can take it out and thaw it in the fridge and still have it taste fresh and delicious two months later.
• How can I make it less sweet?For a less sweet version, use only 3/4 cup sugar. You might also try a bit more water or orange juice to reach the desired consistency.
• Can this cranberry sauce be made ahead of time?Certainly, this recipe benefits from being prepared a day or two in advance, as doing so allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
• Is there a way to add a spicy kick?Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy twist.

Substitutions and Variations

Use 1 cup of maple syrup or 1 cup of honey in place of granulated sugar.
Orange juice, fresh: 1/2 cup pineapple juice or 1/2 cup apple cider.
Lemon zest: substitute with 1 tablespoon orange zest or 1 tablespoon lime zest.
Fresh ginger, grated: To replace, use 1 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 tablespoon minced crystallized ginger.

Pro Tips

1. Add Depth with Spices Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a star anise while cooking to introduce a warm, aromatic depth to the cranberry sauce. Remove any whole spices before serving.

2. Use a Potato Masher If you prefer a smoother sauce, use a potato masher during cooking to break down the cranberries to your desired consistency.

3. Balance Tartness with Apples For a naturally sweet twist, add finely chopped apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji) during cooking. They complement the cranberries and add a subtle sweetness.

4. Enhance with Liqueur Stir in a tablespoon of orange-flavored liqueur, like Grand Marnier, after removing the sauce from the heat for an extra citrus kick.

5. Make It a Day Ahead Prepare the sauce a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld and intensify. Store it in the refrigerator to let it set, which will also enhance the texture.