Ina Garten Make Ahead Cranberry Sauce Recipe

This Ina Garten Make Ahead Cranberry Sauce is a simple and delicious recipe, which uses fresh cranberries and orange juice. It’s the ultimate holiday side dish, ready in about 20 minutes.

Jump to Recipe

Ina Garten Make Ahead Cranberry Sauce Ingredients

• 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• Optional: a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth

How To Make Ina Garten Make Ahead Cranberry Sauce

1. Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Stir to mix.
2. Simmer the sauce: Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce to a gentle simmer and cook 10–15 minutes until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
3. Add spices (optional): Stir in cinnamon or nutmeg during the last few minutes of cooking if desired.
4. Cool and store: Remove from heat and let cool completely. Transfer to a container and refrigerate. The sauce will thicken as it chills.
5. Serve chilled or room temp: Enjoy the sauce cold or at room temperature. It can be made up to a week ahead.

Recipe Tips

• Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time? Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to 7 days, making it perfect for holiday prep.
• How do I make cranberry sauce less tart? Add extra sugar or a splash of honey while simmering.
• Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, frozen cranberries work just as well—no need to thaw before cooking.
• How do I make cranberry sauce thicker? Simmer longer to reduce liquid, or let it chill fully in the fridge to set.
• Can I freeze cranberry sauce? Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

What To Serve With Cranberry Sauce

This make-ahead cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with holiday favorites:

• Roast turkey or chicken
• Glazed ham
• Mashed potatoes
• Stuffing or dressing
• Buttery dinner rolls

How To Store Cranberry Sauce

• Refrigerate: Store in a covered container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Cranberry Sauce Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Sodium: 2 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 28 g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I make cranberry sauce without orange juice?
Yes, replace with apple juice, pomegranate juice, or water for a different flavor.

Why is my cranberry sauce too runny?
It needs more simmering time. Continue cooking until it coats the back of a spoon.

Can I add other fruits to cranberry sauce?
Yes, diced apples, pears, or even dried cherries add sweetness and texture.

How far in advance can I make cranberry sauce?
Up to 7 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
• Barefoot Contessa Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
• Ina Garten Mustard Horseradish Sauce Recipe