Make the best canned cranberry sauce that tastes homemade quickly and easily! This recipe combines whole berry cranberry sauce and jellied cranberry sauce for the perfect texture. With the addition of brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange juice, this cranberry sauce is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or simply craving a delicious side dish, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Using canned cranberry sauce doesn’t mean compromising on taste. By blending together whole berries and a smooth consistency, this recipe achieves the perfect combination of textures. The hint of molasses flavor from brown sugar enhances the natural tartness of the cranberries, while cinnamon adds a cozy holiday touch. The addition of orange juice lends a refreshing citrusy taste, balancing out the flavors for a harmonious and delightful cranberry sauce.
Key Takeaways:
- This canned cranberry sauce recipe combines whole berry cranberry sauce and jellied cranberry sauce for a balance of textures.
- Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses flavor, while cinnamon provides a warm holiday touch.
- Orange juice brings a refreshing burst of citrusy taste to the cranberry sauce.
- Preparing this cranberry sauce is quick and easy, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
- Leftover cranberry sauce can be used to elevate sandwiches, pork recipes, or chicken dinners.
The Perfect Combination of Textures and Flavors
When it comes to cranberry sauce, the perfect combination of textures and flavors can take a simple dish to the next level. By using a combination of whole berry cranberry sauce and jellied cranberry sauce, you can create a sauce that has both a thick consistency and a burst of fruity flavor.
Whole berry cranberry sauce adds a delightful texture to the sauce, with its juicy cranberries providing a satisfying pop in every bite. On the other hand, jellied cranberry sauce brings a smooth and velvety consistency to the mix, creating a luscious base.
To enhance the taste, we add some brown sugar to the mixture. The hint of molasses in the brown sugar complements the tartness of the cranberries, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors. Additionally, a touch of cinnamon adds that warm holiday spice, evoking memories of cozy gatherings and festive meals.
But we don’t stop there. To freshen up the sauce, a splash of orange juice is added, providing a burst of citrusy brightness to the cranberry mixture. The acidity of the orange juice helps balance the sweetness, making the overall taste more well-rounded and refreshing.
Combining these ingredients results in a cranberry sauce that is not only visually appealing, with specks of cranberries dotting the vibrant sauce, but also incredibly flavorful. The different textures and flavors work harmoniously together, creating a cranberry sauce that will elevate any holiday meal or special occasion.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Whole berry cranberry sauce | 1 cup |
Jellied cranberry sauce | 1 cup |
Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
Cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
Orange juice | 2 tablespoons |
With this cranberry sauce recipe, you can impress your guests with its perfect combination of textures and flavors. Serve it alongside your favorite holiday dishes or use it as a versatile condiment to enhance other meals. Get ready to savor the delightful taste of this easy cranberry sauce recipe!
The Easy Preparation Process
Making delicious homemade cranberry sauce has never been easier. With this quick cranberry sauce recipe, you’ll have a homemade cranberry sauce on your table in no time. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful sauce that will elevate any meal.
Gather Your Ingredients
To make this homemade cranberry sauce, you will need:
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 cup jellied cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup orange juice
The Cooking Process
Now, let’s dive into the easy preparation process:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole berry cranberry sauce, jellied cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange juice.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once the sauce starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- If you encounter any large pieces of jellied cranberry sauce, use a wooden spoon to break them down.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cranberry sauce cool.
That’s it! Your homemade cranberry sauce is now ready to be served.
Image of Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Serve and Enjoy
This quick cranberry sauce recipe can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s the perfect accompaniment to your Thanksgiving turkey, roasted chicken, or even as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream. The versatility of this homemade cranberry sauce allows you to incorporate it into various dishes and enjoy its sweet-tart flavors all year round.
Tips for Finding Canned Cranberry Sauce
When it comes to making the perfect cranberry sauce, using canned cranberry sauce can be a time-saving and convenient option. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or simply craving the tangy goodness of cranberries, finding canned cranberry sauce should be a breeze. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you can easily locate this beloved pantry staple:
1. Check the holiday aisle: During the holiday season, canned cranberry sauce is often prominently displayed in the front of the store or in the holiday-specific aisle. Take a stroll down this aisle to find a wide selection of cranberry sauce options.
2. Explore the canned vegetable aisle: If you don’t find canned cranberry sauce in the holiday aisle, head over to the canned vegetable aisle. Many stores also stock cranberry sauce in this section.
3. Don’t forget the baking aisle: Cranberry sauce can sometimes be found in the baking aisle, especially during the holiday season. Be sure to scan the shelves near baking supplies for this versatile condiment.
4. Consider different textures: Keep in mind that there are different variations of canned cranberry sauce, including jellied cranberry sauce and whole berry cranberry sauce. Jellied cranberry sauce has a more solid texture, while whole berry cranberry sauce contains intact cranberries for a chunkier consistency. Choose the texture that appeals to you or try both for a variety of flavors and textures.
5. Serve it cold or at room temperature: Cranberry sauce from a can is typically served cold or at room temperature. Once you’ve found your preferred canned cranberry sauce, simply open the can, transfer the contents to a serving dish, and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have no trouble locating canned cranberry sauce for all your culinary adventures. Whether you’re preparing a festive holiday feast or adding a tangy twist to everyday meals, this versatile ingredient is sure to be a hit.
Variations and Add-Ins for Cranberry Sauce
The basic recipe for canned cranberry sauce can be customized and enhanced with various add-ins and variations. Get creative with these flavorful twists to elevate your cranberry sauce.
1. Orange Zest:
Add a burst of citrusy freshness to your cranberry sauce by incorporating orange zest. Simply grate the orange peel and stir it into the sauce. The bright and tangy flavors of orange zest complement the tartness of cranberries, adding a delightful twist.
2. Maple Syrup:
For a touch of natural sweetness, substitute part of the sugar in the recipe with maple syrup. The rich, caramel-like flavors of maple syrup pair beautifully with the tart cranberries, creating a harmonious balance of taste.
3. Frozen Mixed Berries:
Enhance your cranberry sauce with a medley of mixed berries. Add a bag of frozen raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries to the sauce for a burst of vibrant colors and a range of fruity flavors. This variation brings a delightful complexity to the traditional cranberry sauce.
4. Cinnamon Infusion:
Elevate your cranberry sauce by simmering it with a cinnamon stick. This method infuses the sauce with a warm and comforting cinnamon flavor. Adjust the amount of cinnamon according to your personal preference, from a subtle hint to a bold and festive taste.
Remember, cranberry sauce is typically served at a ratio of at least 1/4 cup per person to ensure everyone gets a delicious scoop of this tangy relish.
Variation | Ingredients | Instructions |
---|---|---|
Orange Zest | 1 tablespoon grated orange zest | Stir the orange zest into the cranberry sauce during cooking. |
Maple Syrup | 1/4 cup maple syrup (substitute part of the sugar) | Mix the maple syrup with the cranberry sauce before cooking. |
Frozen Mixed Berries | 1 bag frozen mixed berries | Add the frozen berries to the cranberry sauce and cook until softened. |
Cinnamon Infusion | 1 cinnamon stick | Simmer the cranberry sauce with the cinnamon stick for added flavor. |
The Leftovers Delight
One of the best parts about making this cranberry sauce recipe is the leftovers. It’s perfect for making Thanksgiving turkey sandwiches by smearing cranberry sauce on bread and loading it up with leftover turkey. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delicious post-holiday meal. Cranberry sauce can be enjoyed beyond the holidays and can be used to dress up pork recipes or chicken dinners throughout the year.
Adding Rosemary for Extra Flavor
For a simple yet flavorful twist to cranberry sauce from a can, consider adding a sprig of rosemary. The herbal and slightly medicinal notes of rosemary beautifully complement the sweet tartness of the cranberries and add an additional layer of flavor to the sauce. This combination of cranberry sauce and rosemary adds complexity and depth of flavor to the classic holiday condiment.
When it comes to enhancing the flavor of cranberry sauce, rosemary is a versatile herb that provides a unique and aromatic taste. Whether you’re using store-bought canned cranberry sauce or a homemade recipe, adding rosemary can take your sauce to the next level.
Why Rosemary?
Rosemary is known for its distinct flavor profile, characterized by its woody aroma and earthy undertones. When combined with cranberry sauce, it adds a savory and fragrant note that beautifully balances the sweet and tart flavors of the sauce.
“The herbal and slightly medicinal notes of rosemary complement the sweet tartness of the cranberries and add another layer of flavor to the sauce.”
The addition of rosemary enhances the overall sensory experience of cranberry sauce, making it more than just a simple condiment. It transforms the sauce into a versatile and flavorful accompaniment that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
How to Add Rosemary to Cranberry Sauce
Adding rosemary to cranberry sauce is a straightforward process that can be done during the cooking or cooling stage. Here’s a simple method:
- Prepare your cranberry sauce according to your chosen recipe or using canned cranberry sauce.
- During the cooking process, place a sprig of fresh rosemary into the sauce.
- Allow the rosemary to infuse its flavors into the sauce as it simmers.
- Once the sauce has thickened and cooled, remove the sprig of rosemary.
You can also choose to finely chop fresh rosemary and add it directly to the sauce for a stronger flavor. Just remember to remove any woody stems before serving.
Serving Suggestions
The cranberry sauce infused with rosemary can be served in various ways and paired with different dishes:
- Serve it alongside roasted turkey or chicken for a festive and flavorful combination.
- Spread it on sandwiches or wraps to add a zesty twist.
- Use it as a dipping sauce for appetizers like meatballs or cheese platters.
Flavor Pairings with Cranberry Sauce and Rosemary
Food Pairing | Flavor Combination |
---|---|
Turkey | The savory rosemary complements the richness of roasted turkey. |
Chicken | The earthy notes of rosemary enhance the flavor of grilled or roasted chicken. |
Ham | The bold flavor of ham pairs perfectly with the aromatic rosemary and tangy cranberry sauce. |
Baked Brie | The herbal rosemary complements the creamy texture of baked Brie, and the cranberry sauce adds a touch of sweetness. |
Pork Tenderloin | The combination of rosemary and cranberry sauce balances the flavors of pork for a satisfying meal. |
Experiment with different flavor pairings to discover your favorite combination. Adding rosemary to cranberry sauce is a simple yet impactful way to elevate the taste and impress your guests during the holiday season or any time of the year.
The Quick and Easy Homemade Alternative
Looking for a simple and delicious cranberry sauce recipe? This quick and easy homemade alternative is the perfect solution. By using canned cranberry sauce as a base, you can achieve a flavorful and aromatic sauce that tastes like it was made completely from scratch.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Canned cranberry sauce
- Orange juice
- Orange zest
- Crushed pineapple
- Cinnamon
- Brown sugar
Follow these simple steps:
- In a saucepan, combine the canned cranberry sauce and orange juice over medium heat.
- Stir in the orange zest, crushed pineapple, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors.
- Let the sauce cool slightly before serving for the best taste.
“This homemade cranberry sauce recipe is a game-changer. The combination of flavors creates a perfectly balanced sauce that is sure to impress.”
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can enjoy a delicious homemade cranberry sauce that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a busy holiday gathering or simply want to add a touch of homemade goodness to your dinner table, this recipe is a winner.
Serving Suggestions
Not only is this cranberry sauce delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions to inspire you:
- Serve with roasted turkey or chicken for a classic Thanksgiving or Christmas meal.
- Spread onto sandwiches for a tangy and sweet kick.
- Use as a glaze for pork tenderloin or ham.
- Add to yogurt or oatmeal for a festive and flavorful breakfast.
Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Canned cranberry sauce | 1 can |
Orange juice | ½ cup |
Orange zest | 1 tablespoon |
Crushed pineapple | ½ cup |
Cinnamon | ½ teaspoon |
Brown sugar | ¼ cup |
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy cranberry sauce recipe or want to experiment with homemade variations, there are plenty of options to elevate this classic side dish. The combination of flavors, textures, and add-ins can turn a simple cranberry sauce into a delicious accompaniment to your holiday meals and beyond.
For those pressed for time, using canned cranberry sauce as a base provides a convenient and tasty option. By adding a few extra ingredients like orange juice, cinnamon, or maple syrup, you can transform canned cranberry sauce into a homemade-style creation that will impress your guests.
However, if you prefer a homemade cranberry sauce from scratch, there are endless possibilities to explore. From incorporating orange zest, crushed pineapple, or frozen mixed berries to simmering the sauce with rosemary for extra flavor, you can customize your cranberry sauce to suit your preferences.
Whether you opt for the convenience of canned cranberry sauce or the creativity of homemade variations, one thing is for sure – cranberry sauce is a versatile and delicious addition to any holiday spread. So go ahead and enjoy this tangy and sweet side dish, knowing that it’s the perfect complement to your festive feast!
FAQ
Can I make cranberry sauce from a can?
Yes, you can. This recipe uses canned cranberry sauce as a base and enhances it with additional flavors and textures.
What is the best combination of cranberry sauce textures?
The best combination is using a mix of whole berry cranberry sauce and jellied cranberry sauce. This creates a thick sauce with the perfect texture.
How do I make cranberry sauce from a can?
Making cranberry sauce from a can is quick and easy. Simply add all the ingredients to a medium saucepan, bring to a gentle boil, and simmer until thickened.
Where can I find canned cranberry sauce?
Canned cranberry sauce is typically found in the front of the store or in the holiday aisle. If not, check the canned vegetable aisle or the baking aisle.
Can I customize my cranberry sauce?
Yes, you can customize your cranberry sauce by adding various add-ins such as orange zest, maple syrup, or frozen mixed berries.
What can I do with leftover cranberry sauce?
Leftover cranberry sauce is perfect for making Thanksgiving turkey sandwiches or can be used to dress up pork or chicken recipes.
Can I add rosemary to my cranberry sauce?
Yes, adding a sprig of rosemary can enhance the flavor of your cranberry sauce. The herbal notes of rosemary complement the sweet tartness of the cranberries.
Can I make homemade cranberry sauce quickly?
Yes, this recipe offers a quick and easy homemade alternative to traditional cranberry sauce. Using canned cranberry sauce as a base, you can achieve a delicious sauce in no time.
Can cranberry sauce be enjoyed beyond the holidays?
Yes, cranberry sauce can be enjoyed throughout the year and can be used to elevate a variety of dishes, not just during the holiday season.