This delicious bourbon cranberry sauce is a perfect mix of tart cranberries and sweet flavors, with a kick from the bourbon! It’s an easy way to brighten up your holiday meals.
I’ll be honest, I could just eat this sauce with a spoon! It’s great on turkey, but also fabulous on pancakes. Who knew cranberry could be this exciting? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work well here. If cranberries are hard to find, you could also use dried cranberries, but they will not give the same tartness and might need to be rehydrated in water first.
Bourbon: Bourbon adds a nice warmth. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, you can use apple cider or non-alcoholic bourbon alternatives. Remember, it will slightly change the flavor but still be delicious!
Orange Zest and Juice: Fresh zest and juice brighten the sauce and enhance the flavors. If you’re in a pinch, bottled orange juice can be a substitute, but fresh is always better!
Rosemary: Fresh minced rosemary gives an aromatic touch. If you don’t have any, thyme or sage can work as substitutes, although they will alter the taste a bit.
How Do You Ensure Your Cranberry Sauce Thickens Perfectly?
Getting the right consistency for your cranberry sauce is simple if you follow a few steps. Start by cooking the mixture just until it simmers; the heat helps the cranberries burst and release their natural pectin, which thickens the sauce.
- As the sauce cooks, stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help break down the cranberries.
- Keep an eye on how thick it gets—if it seems too runny when you remove it from heat, don’t worry! It will continue to thicken as it cools down.
Bourbon Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 cup water
- Zest of 1 orange (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh rosemary (plus a sprig for garnish)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Bourbon Cranberry Sauce will take you about 20 minutes to prepare, including cooking time. You’ll spend a few minutes gathering and measuring everything, then just let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. After that, let it cool, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water in a colander. This helps remove any dirt or debris. Make sure to drain them well before using.
2. Prepare the Sauce Base:
In a medium saucepan, over medium heat, combine the sugar, water, and bourbon. Give it a good stir until the sugar has completely dissolved. This sweet mix will form the base of your sauce!
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add the star players! Toss in the cranberries, orange zest, freshly squeezed orange juice, minced rosemary, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together, so those flavors blend beautifully.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring your mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and watch the cranberries burst and the sauce thicken. It will look lovely!
5. Cool and Set:
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove it from heat. Let it cool to room temperature. Don’t worry if it looks a bit thin at first—it will continue to thicken as it cools down!
6. Transfer and Garnish:
Carefully transfer the sauce to a serving bowl. To make it pretty, garnish with some extra orange zest and a sprig of rosemary. Looks great, doesn’t it?
7. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve this delicious bourbon cranberry sauce chilled or at room temperature as a delightful addition to your holiday meals or any occasion! Enjoy the rich flavor with your turkey, ham, or even on toast!
This sauce is not just flavorful; it adds a vibrant pop of color to your table. The combination of sweetness from the sugar, tartness from the cranberries, and a warm hint of bourbon is simply irresistible!
Can I Use Dried Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
While fresh or frozen cranberries are best for this recipe, you can use dried cranberries in a pinch. However, remember that they are sweeter and won’t provide the same tangy flavor. To mimic the texture, soak dried cranberries in warm water for about 15 minutes before using, and adjust sugar accordingly!
How Can I Make This Sauce Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the amount of sugar to 3/4 cup or even 1/2 cup, especially if your cranberries are particularly tart. You can also add a bit more orange juice to enhance the citrus flavor without the extra sweetness.
How Do I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Leftover cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when it’s time to serve!