Name: Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Cinnamon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz fresh cranberries (Make sure to choose fresh cranberries for best flavor.); 1 cup honey (Preferably local honey.); 1 large orange (zest and juice) (Zest and juice for flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (For warmth and aroma.); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup water

Pin2

Vote

Cranberry sauce is one of those quintessential companions to our favorite family meals, adding a burst of flavor that can elevate any dish. If you’ve never tasted cranberry sauce made with honey, you’re in for a treat! This Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Cinnamon is not only sweet and tart, but it’s also infused with a warm, citrusy fragrance that can brighten any winter evening.

Did you know that this delightful concoction is incredibly easy to prepare? It requires minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps. I remember the first time my mother made cranberry sauce from scratch; the way the tart berries bubbled and popped on the stove was mesmerizing. This recipe is a family favorite and perfect for gatherings where everyone gathers around the table to enjoy delicious food, similar to my Maple Glazed Roasted Sweet Potatoes. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back to the canned stuff!

What is Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Cinnamon?

So, what exactly is this vibrant dish? Picture this: a beautifully balanced sauce made from fresh cranberries, sweetened naturally with honey, and brightened with zesty orange and aromatic cinnamon. The name itself sounds festive, doesn’t it? But I can’t help but wonder, who first decided to mix tart and sweet together? The mystery remains, but one thing’s for sure: “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” holds true. This sauce brings joy to everyone’s plate, making it the perfect addition to any family gathering. Ready to try this spectacular sauce? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Cinnamon

This Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Cinnamon is the star of your dinner table, adding a delightful burst of flavor to your main dishes. Forget clumpy, canned sauces; nothing compares to the fresh, vibrant taste of homemade cranberry sauce. Cooking at home also saves you money, allowing you to create magical dishes without breaking the bank.

Imagine spooning this glossy, jewel-toned sauce over your roasted chicken or fluffy rice—mouthwatering, right? The smooth texture combined with the tangy sweetness is reminiscent of its counterpart, the traditional cranberry jelly, but wow, does it pack an extra punch! Don’t miss out; make this sauce the centerpiece of your next meal!

How to Make Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Cinnamon

Quick Overview

Making your Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Cinnamon is easier than you might think! With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and cooking time of about 20 minutes, you’ll have a sweet-tart sauce ready before you know it. Picture a glossy, vibrant mixture simmering on the stovetop, releasing an irresistible fragrance that fills your home.

Key Ingredients for Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Cinnamon

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful sauce:

12 oz. fresh cranberries
1 cup honey (preferably local)
Zest and juice of 1 large orange
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Rinse the Cranberries: Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any stems.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, honey, orange zest, orange juice, ground cinnamon, salt, and water.
Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally, allowing the cranberries to start popping and releasing their natural juices.
Cook Until Thickened: Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening as the cranberries break down.
Cool & Serve: Once thickened, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool at room temperature. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Store or Serve: Transfer to a serving dish or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy!

Top Tips for Perfecting Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Cinnamon

Sweetness Levels: Adjust the honey according to your sweetness preference. If you prefer less sweetness, feel free to reduce the amount of honey.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of pomegranate juice for extra depth if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cranberry Type: Make sure to choose fresh cranberries for the best results. The flavor will be far superior to any dried or canned versions.
Timing: If you can, let the sauce sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To keep your Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Cinnamon fresh, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Looking to make it ahead of time? You can also freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a saucepan over low heat to retain that appealing texture and flavor.

In conclusion, this sauce is a must-try for anyone looking to add a splash of color and flavor to their meals, perfect for family gatherings or winter evenings. Give this Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Cinnamon a try, and you just might find yourself falling in love with homemade sauces all over again!