Ingredients
Scale
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen (approximately 12 ounces).
- Apples: 2 medium-sized (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced.
- Sweetener: ½ to ¾ cup of sugar (white, brown, or honey, based on your preference).
- Liquid: ¾ cup of orange juice, apple cider, or water.
- Optional Add-ins:
- Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves (1 teaspoon or to taste).
- Zest of 1 orange.
- Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts).
- Dried fruits (raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped apricots).
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash the cranberries thoroughly, discarding any soft or discolored ones.
- Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes.
- Gather your liquid, sweetener, and any optional add-ins you plan to use.
- Cook the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, apples, sweetener, and liquid of choice.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and stir occasionally. Listen for the cranberries to pop as they soften.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, until cranberries burst and apples are tender. For a chunkier texture, reduce the cooking time slightly.
- Add Flavorings:
- Stir in any optional add-ins like spices or orange zest. Adjust sweetness or spices based on your taste preference.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly. It will thicken as it cools.
- Serve warm, chilled, or at room temperature.
Notes
- Customization: Add more or less sweetener based on the tartness of your cranberries and personal taste.
- Texture Adjustments: For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender. If it becomes too thick, stir in a bit of orange juice or water.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of liquid to loosen if needed.