Jellied Cranberry Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cranberry sauce is simple, traditional, and versatile. It’s silky smooth, spreads easily on bread or alongside roasted dishes, and is naturally vibrant in color. With minimal ingredients and effort, it’s a must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any meal that could use a fresh cranberry kick.

Ingredients

(Tip: Full measurements are listed in the recipe card below.)

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 cup sugar
• ¾ cup water

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries are soft and the sauce thickens.
3. Remove from heat and press the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or food mill to remove skins and create a smooth, jellied consistency.
4. Pour the jellied cranberry sauce into a container and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside roasted meats, sandwiches, or as a condiment.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 1 ½ cups of jellied cranberry sauce.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cooling/setting time: 2+ hours
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy note.
• Stir in a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for subtle warmth.
• Use honey or maple syrup in place of sugar for a natural sweetener.
• Blend in a handful of raspberries or cherries for a mixed berry variation.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Jellied cranberry sauce is served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly no need to thaw before cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Make it a day or two in advance to save time on busy holiday mornings.

How do I get it fully smooth?

Pressing through a fine-mesh sieve or food mill ensures a silky, jellied texture without skins.

Can I make it sugar-free?

Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to make a low-sugar version.

Conclusion

Jellied Cranberry Sauce is a classic, smooth, and tangy condiment that elevates any meal. With just three simple ingredients, it’s easy to make and provides a bright, festive touch to holiday tables or everyday dishes. Sweet, tart, and perfectly jellied, it’s a versatile favorite that will always impress.

Jellied Cranberry Sauce

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Jellied Cranberry Sauce is a classic, smooth, and tangy accompaniment that’s perfect for holiday meals or any dish that needs a touch of sweet-tart flavor. Made with just three simple ingredients fresh cranberries, sugar, and water this sauce is easy to prepare and provides the perfect balance of sweetness and natural cranberry tartness.

• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: undefined
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: About 1 ½ cups
• Category: Condiment / Sauce
• Method: Stovetop / Simmer
• Cuisine: American / Holiday

Ingredients

12 oz fresh cranberries

1 cup sugar

¾ cup water

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries are soft and the sauce thickens.
3. Remove from heat and press the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or food mill to remove skins and create a smooth, jellied consistency.
4. Pour the jellied cranberry sauce into a container and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside roasted meats, sandwiches, or as a condiment.

Notes

Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy note.

Stir in a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for subtle warmth.

Use honey or maple syrup in place of sugar for a natural sweetener.

Blend in a handful of raspberries or cherries for a mixed berry variation.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
• Calories: 50
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg