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Cranberry Sauce Recipe With Honey​

Cranberry Sauce Recipe with Honey

A sweet, tangy, and naturally flavored cranberry sauce made with honey instead of sugar. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or as a versatile condiment for meats, desserts, and breakfasts. Quick, easy, and healthy.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 70
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz 340 g fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1/3 –1/2 cup honey adjust to taste
  • 1/2 cup water orange juice, or apple juice
  • Zest of 1 orange optional
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon optional
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg or ginger optional
  • Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Citrus Zester (optional)
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Heatproof container for storing

Method
 

  1. Prep Cranberries: Rinse cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or soft berries.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add cranberries, honey, liquid (water or juice), and optional spices/zest.
  3. Cook Sauce: Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Simmer: Cook for 10–15 minutes until cranberries pop and the sauce thickens.
  5. Adjust Flavor: Taste the sauce and add more honey or citrus juice as needed.
  6. Cool and Store: Allow to cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

  • For chunky sauce, leave cranberries whole. For smooth sauce, blend with a hand blender.
  • Use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are unavailable—they work just as well.
  • Add spices like cloves, vanilla, or a splash of port wine for a festive variation.
  • Sauce thickens further as it cools; adjust liquid during cooking if needed.
  • Great as a side for turkey, chicken, or pork, or as a spread on toast, pancakes, or desserts.
Cranberry Sauce Recipe With Honey​