Introduction

The holiday season brings a treasure trove of flavors and traditions to our tables, with cranberry sauce often stealing the spotlight as a versatile and essential condiment. But this isn’t your ordinary cranberry sauce—this recipe takes the beloved dish to the next level with the addition of golden raisins, fresh orange, and a medley of spices. The result? A sweet, tangy, and aromatic delight that pairs perfectly with roasted meats, hearty sides, or even a dollop on creamy desserts.

Unlike store-bought versions that can beoverly sweet or one-dimensional, this homemade cranberry sauce with orange and golden raisins is a carefully balanced blend of tart cranberries, citrusy brightness, and subtle spice. The natural sweetness of golden raisins complements the cranberries, while the orange and apple cider vinegar add depth and zing. Ground cinnamon and cloves provide a warm, aromatic backdrop, making this sauce as festive as it is delicious.

Beyond its flavor, this cranberry sauce is surprisingly easy to prepare and can be made well in advance, saving you time during the busy holiday season. Plus, with wholesome, fresh ingredients and no artificial preservatives, you’ll feel good about serving it to your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a traditional Thanksgiving feast, a Christmas dinner, or just looking to elevate your everyday meals, this cranberry sauce is a must-have on your menu.

Now, let’s dive into the details and learn how to create this vibrant and flavorful condiment step-by-step!

Ingredients

Yield: About 4 cups

  • 12 ounces (3 cups) fresh or frozen and thawed cranberries
  • 2â…“ cups (466 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1¼ cups (6 ounces) golden raisins
  • 1 small navel orange, halved, seeds removed, and roughly chopped
  • â…“ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
  • ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • â…› teaspoon ground cloves
  • Pinch of kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Prepare

Before starting, ensure all your ingredients are measured and ready to go. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. If using frozen cranberries, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan

In a large saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, golden raisins, chopped orange, apple cider vinegar, lemon zest, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Stir the mixture gently to coat all the ingredients evenly in sugar and spices.

Step 3: Cook the Sauce

Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to dissolve the sugar as the mixture warms up. Allow it to reach a vigorous simmer. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.

Pro Tip: Adjust the heat as needed to avoid scorching the sugar.

Step 4: Cool and Refrigerate

Once the sauce is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool to a warm, but not hot, temperature. Transfer the sauce to a lidded container and refrigerate it for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tip: This cranberry sauce can be prepared several weeks ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday menu.

Tips for Success

  1. Choose the Right Cranberries: Fresh cranberries work best, but frozen cranberries are a great alternative. Just ensure they’re thawed and drained before use.
  2. Don’t Skip the Rest Time: Letting the sauce sit for 24 hours in the fridge enhances the flavor by allowing the spices and fruit to meld together.
  3. Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind the tartness of the cranberries.
  4. Texture Matters: For a chunkier sauce, cook it for less time or skip mashing the cranberries entirely. For a smoother sauce, you can blend it after cooking.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (¼ cup):

  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 20mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 27g
  • Protein: 0g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and measurements.

Cost Estimation

Creating a homemade cranberry sauce like this is both cost-effective and rewarding. Here’s a rough breakdown of ingredient costs:

  • Cranberries (12 oz): $2.50
  • Sugar (2â…“ cups): $0.50
  • Golden Raisins (1¼ cups): $1.80
  • Navel Orange (1 small): $0.70
  • Apple Cider Vinegar (â…“ cup): $0.40
  • Spices and Salt: $0.30

Estimated Total Cost: $6.20 (or about $1.55 per cup)

Note: Prices may vary depending on your location and ingredient quality.

We hope you enjoy making this Cranberry Sauce With Orange and Golden Raisins as much as we do! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and let us know your creative variations in the comments below. Planning a big feast? Pair this sauce with our Gluten-Free Turkey Gravy or Dry-Brined Turkey for the ultimate holiday spread. Subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes delivered straight to your inbox!