This bourbon cranberry sauce is a perfect blend of tart and sweet, featuring fresh cranberries and a splash of bourbon for a delightful twist. It’s a holiday favorite!
Honestly, it’s so good that you might catch yourself sneaking spoonfuls right from the bowl! I love serving it with turkey or on sandwiches—it really makes everything taste amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for a vibrant taste and texture. If they’re not available, frozen cranberries work just fine, and there’s no need to thaw them before cooking. I often have frozen ones on hand for a quick sauce!
Bourbon: This adds a wonderful warmth to the sauce. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, you can use apple cider or just add extra orange juice for flavor. I find that a smoother bourbon really enhances the taste!
Orange Zest & Juice: The zest brings a bright, fresh flavor. If you lack fresh oranges, bottled orange juice will work, but fresh is always my first choice. Always zest before juicing for ease!
Spices: The cinnamon and nutmeg give a cozy aroma to the sauce. If you’re a fan of spice, you can always add a bit more, or even throw in a pinch of allspice for a unique twist!
How Do I Ensure the Cranberry Sauce Thickens Properly?
Thickening the sauce can be a bit tricky, but here are some tips: First, let your cranberries cook down properly. When they burst, they release pectin, which is what helps thicken the sauce.
- Start with a simmer and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Let it simmer for at least 5 minutes after adding bourbon and spices for optimal thickness.
- Remember, it will thicken more as it cools, so don’t rush to serve it while it’s still hot.
Trust me; letting it cool a bit will give it the right consistency, making it perfect for spreading on your favorite dishes! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Bourbon Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 cup water
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Optional garnish: orange zest twists and a small sprig of rosemary
Time Needed
This bourbon cranberry sauce takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to cool. It’s super quick, making it perfect for last-minute holiday meals or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine Water and Sugar
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the water and granulated sugar. Stir it occasionally with a spoon until the sugar dissolves, and the mixture starts simmering. Don’t rush, let the heat do its job!
2. Cook the Cranberries
Now it’s time to add the cranberries! Toss them into the saucepan and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally. You’ll notice that most of the cranberries will pop open and the sauce will begin to thicken.
3. Add the Flavor
Next, stir in the bourbon, orange zest, orange juice, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Keep everything simmering for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should look glossy and have a chunky texture.
4. Cool the Sauce
Once it’s ready, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry sauce cool down to room temperature. It’ll thicken more as it cools, so be patient!
5. Garnish and Serve
Transfer your beautiful sauce to a serving bowl. Feel free to add some prettiness by garnishing with orange zest twists and a sprig of rosemary if you’d like. It’s such a lovely touch, especially for holiday gatherings!
6. Enjoy!
Serve the bourbon cranberry sauce chilled or at room temperature next to your favorite roasted meats or holiday dishes. Get ready for compliments!
Enjoy the delightful warmth and depth that the bourbon brings to this classic cranberry sauce! It’s sure to be a hit at your table!
Can I Use Dried Cranberries Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
While dried cranberries can add sweetness, they won’t provide the same tartness or texture that fresh or frozen cranberries do. If you want to use dried cranberries, I recommend rehydrating them in hot water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the recipe. This will help mimic the texture of fresh cranberries.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the sugar amount by 1/4 cup or even more, depending on your taste. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a bit more orange juice or a splash of vinegar for some acidity!
What Can I Do with Leftover Sauce?
Leftover bourbon cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It’s perfect for spreading on sandwiches, adding to yogurt, or even using as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Just make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating. When ready to serve, it can be enjoyed chilled or gently heated on the stove to soften it up a bit.