This Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce is a tasty twist on the classic side dish. The bright orange gives it a zesty kick, while the amaretto adds a warm, nutty flavor.
Every holiday feast deserves this magic! I love spooning it over turkey or simply enjoying it straight from the bowl. Trust me, it’s that good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal for this recipe. If they’re not available, frozen cranberries work just as well. I always keep some in my freezer for last-minute sauces!
Amaretto: This nutty liqueur adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have amaretto, try using almond extract (1 tsp) for a similar taste, though the flavor might be more concentrated.
Orange Juice and Zest: Fresh orange juice brings a bright flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled orange juice can substitute, but fresh is always best! Don’t skip the zest; it really enhances the sauce.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works well, but you can swap for brown sugar for a deeper flavor or a sugar alternative like honey or maple syrup for a twist.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
Getting the right thickness in cranberry sauce can be a little tricky. Here’s how to ensure your sauce is just right:
- Start by cooking the cranberries with sugar and juice until they pop; this releases their natural pectin, which helps thicken the sauce.
- Simmer for about 10–15 minutes. The longer you simmer, the thicker your sauce will become, so keep stirring to prevent sticking.
- If it gets too thick, add a splash of water or more orange juice to loosen it up.
Remember, it will thicken further as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a little loose at first!
Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1/4 cup amaretto liqueur
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cranberry sauce takes about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes gathering and mixing your ingredients, then around 15 minutes cooking it down on the stove. Plus, it needs time to cool before serving, so it’s a perfect make-ahead dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Cranberries:
First things first! Rinse your cranberries in cold water and check for any rotten ones or stems that might have sneaked in. Toss out any bad berries to ensure your sauce tastes fresh and delicious.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, add the cleaned cranberries, sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest, ground cinnamon (if you like a bit of spice), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Heat It Up:
Turn on the stove to medium heat. Stir occasionally as the mixture heats up until the sugar has fully dissolved. You’ll start to hear some cranberries pop as they heat!
4. Bring to a Boil:
Let the mixture come to a gentle boil. This is where all the magic happens! The cranberries will burst open and release their juices, creating a lovely sauce.
5. Simmer and Thicken:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 10–15 minutes. Stir often until the sauce thickens to your liking, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning!
6. Add the Amaretto:
When your sauce is just right, take it off the heat and gently stir in the amaretto liqueur. This adds that fabulous nutty flavor that pairs so well with the cranberries.
7. Cool It Down:
Let the sauce cool to room temperature. Don’t worry if it seems a bit runny at first; it will thicken up as it cools.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your cranberry sauce to a serving bowl and, if you like, garnish it with a sprinkle of extra orange zest for a pop of color. It’s delicious served chilled or at room temperature and pairs just perfectly with turkey, ham, or even on toast!
Enjoy your bright, zesty, and slightly boozy cranberry sauce that will surely impress your guests this holiday season!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This cranberry sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen, making it even tastier when you’re ready to serve it!
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup or even more, depending on your taste. You can always taste as you go; add a little more sugar after cooking if you think it needs it!
Can I Freeze Leftover Sauce?
Yes! This sauce freezes well. Just transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and give it a gentle stir before serving.
What Can I Serve With This Cranberry Sauce?
This sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, and ham. You can also enjoy it on pancakes, waffles, or even as a spread for sandwiches. It’s versatile, so feel free to get creative!
