Easy Canned Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Sweet, tangy, and so simple—this canned cranberry sauce with a fresh twist will steal the show at any meal!
🕒 Prep Time: 6 min | Cook Time: 14 min | Total Time: 20 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: 740 kcal
Why You’ll Love This Simple Canned Cranberry Sauce
This recipe transforms ordinary canned cranberry sauce into a luscious, fresh-tasting dish with a hint of orange and spice. Perfect for holiday dinners, sandwiches, or as a sweet-tart side dish. 🍊🍇
🍽️ Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) cranberry jelly
- 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed preferred)
- 3 tbsp packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 to 1 tsp ground cinnamon, to taste (optional)
Simple Canned Cranberry Sauce (Easy & Delicious!)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Simple Canned Cranberry Sauce with orange juice and a hint of cinnamon—perfect for holidays and sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) cranberry jelly
- 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed preferred)
- 3 tbsp packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 to 1 tsp ground cinnamon, to taste (optional)
Instructions
1. Add the whole berry cranberry sauce, cranberry jelly, orange juice, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon (if using) to a medium saucepan. Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly before placing on the stove.
2. Place the saucepan with the mixed ingredients over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. As soon as it reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally and break apart any large pieces of jelly by pressing them against the side of the saucepan with your spoon. Taste and adjust cinnamon if needed.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool for 15 minutes.
4. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy warm or chilled. For best flavor, chill in the fridge before serving.
Notes
Make ahead: Chills and sets beautifully overnight.
Serving ideas: Amazing with turkey, spread on sandwiches, or spooned over brie.
Flavor boost: Add orange zest or a splash of cranberry juice for extra brightness.
- Prep Time: 6 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 740
- Sugar: 160g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 190g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add the whole berry cranberry sauce, cranberry jelly, orange juice, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon (if using) to a medium saucepan. Mix everything thoroughly before heating.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Break apart large pieces of jelly with your spoon. 🍲
- Taste and adjust cinnamon if desired. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 15 minutes.
- Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy warm or chilled. For best flavor, refrigerate ahead of time before serving. ❄️
💡 Pro Tips & Tricks
- Make Ahead: This sauce tastes even better when chilled overnight.
- Serving Ideas: Use as a side dish, spread on sandwiches, or as a topping for roasted meats.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of cranberry juice or zest of an orange for extra brightness.
📊 Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 plate | 740 | 2g | 190g | 0g | 4g | 160g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated and may vary based on ingredients used. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
❓ FAQs
Can I freeze cranberry sauce?
Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 7 days in a sealed container.
Can I use bottled orange juice?
Yes, but fresh-squeezed gives the sauce a brighter, fresher flavor.
📝 Conclusion
This Simple Canned Cranberry Sauce is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, adding it to sandwiches, or just enjoying a spoonful, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to every year!
