Smooth & Silky Homemade Cranberry Sauce

A Holiday Staple with a Flavorful Twist

Cranberry sauce is a must-have during the holiday season, bringing a perfect balance of tart and sweet to your holiday table. But who says you have to settle for store-bought when you can make a smooth and silky homemade version with just a few ingredients? This cranberry sauce is packed with warm cinnamon, zesty orange, and a touch of vanilla for that extra depth of flavor. Whether you like it chunky or blended to perfection, this sauce is a game-changer!

Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh cranberries, washed
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 orange, zested and juiced
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (cornstarch slurry)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cranberries

• Start by washing your cranberries thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

• In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, sugar, cinnamon stick, orange zest, orange juice, nutmeg, and water. Stir everything together.

Step 3: Cook Until Berries Pop

• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. As it heats up, the cranberries will start to pop—this is when the magic happens!

Step 4: Simmer & Blend

• Once the cranberries have popped, reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick, then use a blender or immersion blender to puree the sauce until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, skip the blending step.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

• Return the blended cranberry sauce to the pot and stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken and remove any raw cornstarch taste.

Step 6: Cool & Store

• Pour the sauce into a jar or airtight container and let it cool. It will thicken as it sets.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Sauce

• Adjust Sweetness: If you like it sweeter, add an extra tablespoon of sugar while cooking.
• Spice it Up: A pinch of ground cloves or ginger can enhance the warmth of the sauce.
• Storage: This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week and can be frozen for longer storage.

About the Creator

This homemade cranberry sauce recipe is a beloved classic brought to you by @itsmekellz with a smooth, silky twist. For more soulful holiday recipes, check out BlackFoodie.com and follow our journey of flavor and culture.

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