Jellied Cranberry Sauce Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Jellied Cranberry Sauce is a holiday classic that adds a sweet, tangy contrast to your festive meals. Whether you’re hosting a grand Thanksgiving dinner or preparing a simple family gathering, this smooth, ruby-red sauce will become the star of the show. Easy to make and bursting with fresh cranberry flavor, this homemade version beats anything you can find in a can. And with the added hint of orange, it brings a refreshing twist to the traditional dish. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make homemade jellied cranberry sauce that’s perfect for canning or refrigeration, ensuring it’s ready whenever you need it.

The Appeal of Homemade Jellied Cranberry Sauce

What makes Jellied Cranberry Sauce so special? Aside from its nostalgic, smooth texture and tangy taste, it’s incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it immediately after preparation, or choose to can it for longer shelf life. The flavor is fresher and more vibrant than store-bought versions, giving you full control over what goes into your recipe. Plus, with minimal ingredients and preparation, it’s an easy addition to any holiday spread. Whether you’re a fan of classic Thanksgiving meals or love using leftovers for sandwiches, this jellied cranberry sauce will become a cherished staple in your home.

Ingredients for Jellied Cranberry Sauce

The beauty of this Jellied Cranberry Sauce lies in its simplicity. Below are the ingredients that will create this deliciously smooth, tangy sauce:

• Fresh Cranberries: The star ingredient, providing the perfect tartness.
• Orange Juice: Adds a bright citrus flavor to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
• Orange Zest: Enhances the orange flavor with a fragrant, zesty touch.
• White Sugar: Sweetens the sauce, making it the perfect complement to your savory dishes.
• Water: Used to help cook the cranberries to the right consistency.
• Optional – Cinnamon Stick or Minced Jalapeño Pepper: Add a little spice for a unique twist.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you want to customize your Jellied Cranberry Sauce, there are several easy swaps you can make:

• Sweetener Alternatives: You can replace white sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
• Citrus Variations: Swap the orange juice and zest for lemon or lime to create a tangier sauce.
• Spicy Twist: If you love heat, you can add more jalapeños or even a dash of chili flakes for an exciting kick.
• Canning Option: If you’re not into canning, simply refrigerate the sauce in a sealed jar and consume within 10 days.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Jellied Cranberry Sauce

Making homemade Jellied Cranberry Sauce is simpler than it sounds. Follow these easy steps:

1. Combine Cranberries, Orange Juice, Water, and Zest: In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, water, and orange zest. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Simmer the Mixture: Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, allowing the cranberries to burst open. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Mash or Blend the Cranberries: Using an immersion blender or potato masher, blend the cranberry mixture until smooth, but not necessarily perfect. A few small bits can add texture.
4. Strain the Mixture: Pour the blended cranberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof bowl. Use a spoon or spatula to press the mixture through, leaving behind the seeds and any chunky bits.
5. Cook with Sugar: Return the strained cranberry sauce to the pan. Add the sugar and stir until it dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until it reaches 215°F-217°F on an instant-read thermometer.
6. Cool and Store: Pour the hot sauce into sterile jars, leaving a quarter-inch headspace. If you want to can the sauce, place the jars in a hot water bath and process for 15 minutes. If refrigerating, allow the sauce to cool before sealing the jars and storing them in the fridge.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Jellied Cranberry Sauce

• Watch the Temperature: For the perfect gel, ensure your cranberry sauce reaches 215°F-217°F. If it doesn’t reach this temperature, the sauce may not set properly.
• Strain Thoroughly: Straining the sauce through a fine mesh sieve ensures a smooth texture and removes unwanted seeds and bits.
• Test for Doneness: If you don’t have a thermometer, test the consistency by dipping a cold spoon into the sauce. If the sauce gels against the spoon and holds a clean line when you swipe your finger through it, it’s ready.
• Customize the Flavor: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to suit your taste. Adding a cinnamon stick during cooking will give your sauce a warm, spiced flavor perfect for the holidays.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Jellied Cranberry Sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:

• Traditional Pairings: Serve it alongside turkey or chicken for the ultimate Thanksgiving or holiday dinner.
• Sandwich Filling: Leftover turkey sandwiches with a smear of jellied cranberry sauce and stuffing are a must-try after your holiday meal.
• Cheese Pairings: This sauce also works well with cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar for a savory twist.
• Vegan Option: For a plant-based version, swap the sugar with a vegan-friendly sweetener like agave syrup.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 10 days, making it perfect for holiday meal prep.

Seasonal Benefits of Jellied Cranberry Sauce

Jellied Cranberry Sauce isn’t just for Thanksgiving—it’s a year-round treat. Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any meal. Plus, this recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary needs, whether you’re looking for a gluten-free, vegan, or lower-sugar version.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making your own Jellied Cranberry Sauce is not only incredibly simple but also adds a fresh, vibrant touch to your holiday meals. With its smooth texture, sweet-tart flavor, and versatility, it’s the perfect accompaniment to turkey, sandwiches, or even cheese platters. Whether you decide to refrigerate or can your batch, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of serving a homemade version that beats store-bought alternatives every time. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a staple at your family’s table for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad: This vibrant salad combines fresh apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, making it a perfect side dish to complement the sweet-tart flavor of Jellied Cranberry Sauce. It’s an excellent option for a light, seasonal dish that pairs well with your Thanksgiving meal.
• Cranberry Apple Jam: For those who enjoy the combination of cranberries and apples, this jam recipe offers a sweet and tangy spread perfect for the holiday season. It’s a great way to use leftover cranberries while adding a fruity twist to your meals or desserts.
• Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie: No holiday meal is complete without a classic pumpkin pie. This rich and creamy dessert pairs beautifully with the flavors of Jellied Cranberry Sauce, offering a comforting balance of flavors for your Thanksgiving feast.

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