Looking for a delightful twist on a classic side dish that will elevate your holiday meals? Look no further than this Homemade Cranberry Apple Sauce! Bursting with vibrant flavors and the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, this easy-to-make sauce is sure to impress your family and friends. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a mere 25 minutes of your time, you can create a luscious accompaniment that pairs beautifully with turkey, pork, or even as a topping for your morning toast. Dive into this recipe to discover how simple it is to bring a taste of autumn to your table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bag (12 oz) fresh cranberries
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Wash the fresh cranberries thoroughly under cool running water, removing any stems or damaged berries.
- Peel and core the apples, then chop them into small, roughly 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and easy breakdown.
- In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved over medium heat.
- Add the fresh cranberries and chopped apples to the sugar syrup, stirring to coat all the fruit evenly.
- Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the fruit mixture and stir to distribute the spice throughout.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for approximately 12-15 minutes.
- Stir occasionally and gently mash the fruits with the back of a wooden spoon as they soften and break down.
- Remove from heat when the sauce reaches a desired consistency - some whole fruit pieces should remain for texture.
- Let the cranberry apple sauce cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, during which it will continue to thicken.
- Transfer to a clean storage container and refrigerate. The sauce can be served warm or chilled.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination will enhance the overall taste of your sauce.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, start with 3/4 cup of sugar and taste before adding more.
- Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is a classic addition, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
- Texture Preference: If you like a smoother sauce, use a potato masher or immersion blender after cooking to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: This cranberry apple sauce is not just for Thanksgiving! Try it on pancakes, yogurt, or as a filling in desserts for a burst of flavor any time of the year.
- Storage Tips: Store your sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It also freezes well, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
