small-batch cranberry sauce in a few minutes

Recipe by
Heidi Hoerman
Hingham, MA

Fresh cranberries seem to be in the stores only around the holidays. Happily, they keep "forever" right in their bag in the freezer. I've used them up to three years old with no ill-effects or flavor problems. Fresh cranberry juice is very easy to make in small batches and makes a wonderful condiment year rounds. You can change the flavor easily by choosing different sugars, liquids, and seasonings. Just simmer all the ingredients together and a delicious fresh cranberry sauce is yours any time of year. Just remember to throw a couple bags in the freezer this winter!

yield serving(s)
prep time 5 Min
cook time 5 Min
method Stove Top

Ingredients For small-batch cranberry sauce in a few minutes

  • 1 c
    cranberries, fresh or frozen
  • 1/3 c
    sugar or honey (any type)
  • opt
    flavorings (see suggestions below)
  • opt
    pinch of salt
  • 1/3 c
    liquid (see suggestions below)
  • SUGGESTED FLAVORINGS (MAY USE COMBINATIONS LIKE CINNAMON AND GINGER)
  • 1/2 tsp
    ground cinnamon
  • 1 Tbsp
    fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp
    lemon or orange zest, grated
  • l
    combination of chili peppers, onion, cumin, etc. for salsa
  • SUGGESTED LIQUIDS
  • 1/3 c
    water, orange juice, apple cider, or other fruit juice
  • 1/3 c
    sweet or dry wine, sherry or port (may replace some with water)
  • PROVEN COMBOS
  • brown sugar, apple cider, 1/2 tsp. cinnamon, 1 tbl. grated ginger
  • white sugar, lemon juice, 1/2 tsp. cumin, 1 tbl. horseradish

How To Make small-batch cranberry sauce in a few minutes

  • 1
    In a non-reactive saucepan over medium heat, bring all ingredients to a boil. Simmer, stirring frequently, until berries burst, 3 to 5 minutes. Do not scorch. Mash with spoon or fork until desired consistency.
  • 2
    Remove from heat. Serve warm or cool. Store in glass or plastic, covered, in refrigerator.

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