Cranblueberry Sauce
Transform your holiday table with this vibrant and flavorful Cranblueberry Sauce. Perfectly sweetened with orange juice and a touch of sugar, this sauce combines the tartness of cranberries and the natural sweetness of blueberries. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even a cheese platter. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, it’s sure to be a standout addition to your festive feast.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best results)
- 1/4 cup water
- Zest of one orange
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional for a warm, spiced flavor)
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Microplane or fine grater (for zesting)
- Optional: Immersion blender (to mash and blend berries)
Instructions
- Combine the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the cranberries, blueberries, sugar, orange juice, water, orange zest, and salt. Add a pinch of cinnamon if
- Cook the Sauce: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. As the cranberries begin to pop and the blueberries soften (about 10-15 minutes), stir more frequently.
- Mash the Berries: Lightly mash the cranberries and blueberries using a spoon, fork, potato masher, or immersion blender to achieve your preferred texture. For a chunkier sauce, mash lightly; for a smoother consistency, mash more thoroughly.
- Thicken the Mixture: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes until it thickens. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.
Betty’s Pro Tips
- Fresh vs. Frozen: This recipe works beautifully with both fresh and frozen berries. If using frozen berries, there is no need to thaw them beforehand.
- Sweetness Level: Taste the sauce as it cooks. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, stir in an extra tablespoon of sugar toward the end of cooking.
- Zesty Upgrade: For an extra burst of citrus flavor, squeeze a bit of fresh orange juice on top
- Make Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. For the best results, make it a day in advance.
