Looking for a new way to elevate your holiday meals? This Ocean Spray cranberry sauce recipe offers a homemade twist on the traditional favorite. Skip the canned jelly and opt for this fresh, flavorful alternative that’s simple to make and bursting with natural ingredients. With just a few steps, you can create a jellied cranberry sauce that will impress your guests and make your meal even more special.
Why Make Homemade Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce?
While store-bought cranberry sauce is convenient, nothing beats the rich flavor and texture of a homemade version. This recipe uses fresh cranberries, a hint of citrus, and warm spices to create a jelly cranberry sauce that’s smoother and more delicious than anything you can get from a can. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and uses the natural pectin found in cranberries—no fancy ingredients needed!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries, washed and rinsed
- 1 cup water (be cautious not to use too much)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3-4 strips of orange zest (avoid the white pith, as it’s bitter)
- 1 cup sugar
Instructions:
1. Cook the Cranberries
Start by placing the fresh cranberries in a saucepan with 1 cup of water. Be careful not to add too much water, as it can prevent the sauce from firming up properly. Add the cinnamon stick and orange zest strips to the pot. These will infuse the cranberry sauce with a subtle warmth and citrus flavor that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
2. Simmer the Mixture
Set the heat to medium, allowing the cranberries to pop as they cook. Once the cranberries start to burst, reduce the heat to medium-low and let them simmer for about 7-8 minutes. The cranberries will begin to break down and thicken into a beautiful sauce.
3. Strain and Puree
After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat. Take out the cinnamon stick and orange zest—these have done their job of flavoring the sauce. For that smooth, jellied texture, pass the cranberry mixture through a food processor. You want it to be almost a puree but with a bit of texture.
4. Add Sugar
Once your cranberry mixture is processed, transfer it back into the pot. Now it’s time to add the sugar. This step is essential in achieving the perfect jelly consistency. Stir the sugar into the thick cranberry mixture and cook it over medium-low heat for another 8-10 minutes. The sugar will dissolve and blend, giving the cranberry sauce a glossy, smooth texture.
5. Strain for Smoothness
To achieve that classic Ocean Spray cranberry sauce texture, pass the sauce through a fine sieve. This will ensure a silky, smooth finish, free from any pulp or skin. If you don’t have a fine sieve, you can line a regular sieve with a coffee filter or cheesecloth.
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6. Chill and Serve
Once the sauce is strained, transfer it into a mold or small mason jar. Lightly oil the container with avocado oil to make the sauce easier to release later. Place the cranberry sauce in the fridge to chill for several hours or overnight. Once set, you can slice it just like the traditional jellied sauce from a can!
Tips for the Best Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce Recipe:
- Strain Thoroughly: For a truly smooth jelly, be patient while straining the sauce. This is key to achieving the perfect consistency.
Why This Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce Recipe Stands Out:
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need pectin, gelatin, or other artificial ingredients to make this jellied cranberry sauce. The natural pectin in the cranberries does all the work!
- Homemade Taste: Unlike the canned version, this recipe lets you control the sweetness and flavor, making it a more personal and delicious addition to your meal.
- Perfect for Holidays: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday meal, this cranberry sauce recipe is a fantastic homemade alternative to canned jelly.
Final Thoughts
This homemade Ocean Spray cranberry sauce recipe is sure to become a favorite at your holiday table. It’s simple, delicious, and full of flavor that will enhance any meal. Make it once, and you’ll never go back to store-bought cranberry sauce again!
Try this recipe out for your next holiday dinner and enjoy the fresh, homemade taste that your family and friends will love. For more great recipes like this, visit Zimal Cooks and explore our collection of homemade dishes that will inspire your next meal.
