10 Minute Cranberry Sauce (naturally sweetened)
A quick and naturally sweetened cranberry sauce made with maple syrup, orange juice, and warm vanilla for a bright, fresh holiday side that comes together in just 10 minutes. Perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, a holiday cheese board, or spooned over leftovers the next day.
Servings 8 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries (about 3 cups)
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- ½ cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1-2 tsp orange zest
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, add cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice, water, orange zest, cinnamon (if using), and salt.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low. Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Let the sauce cool completely, it will thicken as it sits.
Notes
- The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools — plan to make it a little ahead of time for best texture.
- If you prefer a smoother cranberry sauce, blend it with an immersion blender once it cools slightly.
- Using fresh orange juice (instead of bottled) makes a big difference in the final flavor.
- For a chunkier texture, lightly mash the cranberries with the back of a spoon instead of fully breaking them down.
- This sauce tastes even better the next day — ideal for prepping ahead of a busy holiday meal.
Did you make this recipe?Don't forget to tag @lovelydelites across all social media platforms!