This no-cook cranberry sauce is super easy and tasty! Just blend fresh cranberries with sugar and a hint of orange juice for a zesty twist. It’s a bright side for any meal!
I love how this sauce can be made in minutes and adds a pop of color to my table. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests with minimal effort. Who knew something so simple could be so good? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are key for that tart flavor. If you can’t find them, you might use frozen cranberries, but thaw them before processing as they can be tougher when frozen.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the sauce, but you can swap it for honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup for a different taste. Just adjust the amount since these sweeteners can vary in sweetness.
Orange Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives a bright citrus taste. If you don’t have oranges, lemon juice can work, though it will add more tartness. I prefer using zest since it enhances the flavor.
Spices: The optional cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth, but feel free to leave them out or try other spices like ginger or allspice if you’re looking for a twist.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for No Cook Cranberry Sauce?
The key to a great textured cranberry sauce is in the chopping process. You want the chunks to stay intact for a nice bite, so here’s how to do it:
- Pulse the cranberries gently in your food processor. Start with a few quick bursts.
- Stop once the cranberries are coarsely chopped. It’s okay if some pieces are bigger—they add great texture!
- Take a taste before you put it in the fridge. You can always adjust sweetness by adding a tad more sugar.
Let it rest in the fridge to marry the flavors. The longer it sits, the better it will taste! Just remember to stir it up before serving for that fresh look.
No Cook Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- Zest of 1 orange
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for warmth
- Garnish: fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing no-cook cranberry sauce takes only about 10-15 minutes to prepare. Just remember to set aside at least 1 hour for it to chill in the fridge so the flavors can meld beautifully. It’s perfect for any occasion and makes a great addition to your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Make sure to remove any bad ones—just look for those that are shriveled or mushy! After rinsing, drain them well.
2. Mix Your Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed cranberries, granulated sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest. This is where all the flavors come together!
3. Chop It Up:
Using a food processor or blender, pulse the cranberry mixture several times. You want to chop the cranberries coarsely, leaving some texture for a chunky sauce. Avoid over-processing to keep it from turning into a puree.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Now it’s time to taste your sauce! If you like it sweeter, feel free to add a little more sugar. If you want to add some warmth, stir in ground cinnamon or nutmeg. Just mix it well!
5. Chill Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 1 hour so the flavors can meld together and the sugar can dissolve. The longer it sits, the better it will be!
6. Ready to Serve:
Before serving, give the cranberry sauce a good stir to mix everything up. Transfer it to a lovely serving bowl and, if you’d like, garnish it with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a pretty touch!
7. Enjoy!
This no-cook cranberry sauce can be served chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or even as a spread for sandwiches. Enjoy the vibrant flavors!
This no-cook cranberry sauce is a breeze to make and adds a lovely, tart sweetness to your dishes!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess water before using in the recipe. This will ensure the texture remains nice and chunky.
Can I Reduce the Sugar in the Recipe?
Absolutely! You can adjust the sugar to your taste. Start with half the amount and then gradually add more until you reach your desired sweetness. Remember, the cranberries are naturally tart, so a little sugar can go a long way!
How Long Does Leftover Cranberry Sauce Last?
Leftover cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It may even taste better after a day or two, as the flavors continue to blend!
What Can I Serve with No Cook Cranberry Sauce?
This sauce pairs perfectly with holiday meals, especially turkey or ham. You can also use it in sandwiches, on cheese platters, or as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or yogurt for a fruity twist!
