This Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce is a delicious twist on the traditional recipe! With bright, tangy cranberries combined with a splash of orange liqueur, it’s sure to wow your guests.
I love how easy it is to make! Just boil, stir, and watch it transform into a vibrant sauce. It pairs perfectly with turkey or even pancakes—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are a must for this recipe, as they provide the essential tartness and texture. If fresh ones aren’t available, you can use frozen cranberries—just don’t thaw them beforehand.
Grand Marnier: This orange liqueur adds a unique depth and sweetness. If you prefer an alcohol-free option, you can substitute with orange juice or orange extract, but keep in mind these alternatives will change the flavor profile slightly.
Sugar: While granulated sugar is the standard, you can use brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor. Honey or maple syrup can also work, but remember to adjust the liquid content slightly with these options.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds a nice herbal note. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or replace it with other herbs like thyme for a different twist.
How Do I Ensure My Cranberries Cook Perfectly?
Cooking the cranberries just right is key to achieving that perfect sauce consistency. Here’s how to get it done:
- Start by rinsing and checking your cranberries for any bad ones; discarding them ensures only the best flavors shine through.
- When boiling the sugar and water mix, stir until it’s fully dissolved—this will help the sauce become smooth.
- After adding cranberries, simmer gently so they burst but don’t overcook; you want that appealing chunky texture!
- Let the sauce cool at room temperature for thickening. It will be quite a bit thicker once chilled—perfect for serving!
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously thick and flavorful cranberry sauce that everyone will love!
Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) Grand Marnier orange liqueur
- 1 tsp orange zest (finely grated)
- 1/2 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional, as garnish and subtle flavor)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe only takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus some time for cooling. By the end, you’ll have a delicious cranberry sauce that’s perfect for any holiday meal, ready in less than half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Take a moment to check through them and discard any that look spoiled or soft. Properly cleaning them ensures a beautiful, fresh flavor.
2. Make the Sugar Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, mix together the granulated sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it comes to a gentle boil. Stir it well to make sure the sugar has completely dissolved.
3. Cook the Cranberries:
Now, add the cleaned cranberries to the boiling sugar mixture. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. As they cook, stir occasionally. You’ll notice that most of the cranberries will start to burst, which is what we want! Let them simmer for about 10–12 minutes, until the sauce starts to thicken.
4. Add Flavor:
Once your cranberries are cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the Grand Marnier and the orange zest, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
5. Cool the Sauce:
Let the cranberry sauce cool down to room temperature. It will thicken a bit more as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a little runny at first!
6. Final Touches:
Once cooled, transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving bowl. If you’d like to add a lovely presentation, garnish it with freshly chopped rosemary and a few strips of orange zest on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
This sauce is delicious served chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with your holiday turkey, use it on sandwiches, or even enjoy it with breakfast pancakes. It’s versatile and packed with flavor!
Enjoy your vibrant Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce at your next meal. It’s sure to impress with its delicious balance of tartness and citrusy warmth!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! There’s no need to thaw them first; just add them directly to the boiling mixture. Cooking time may slightly increase as they will take a little longer to heat through.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Leftover cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving!
Can I Omit the Grand Marnier?
Definitely! If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute the Grand Marnier with an equal amount of orange juice or simply leave it out entirely. You can also enhance the flavor with a splash of vanilla extract if desired.
What Should I Serve with this Sauce?
This cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or pork. It also makes a lovely topping for desserts like cheesecake or even on breakfast items like pancakes and waffles!
