Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Mandarin Oranges — ready in about 20 minutes with just a few simple ingredients. This bright, sweet-and-tart sauce is an easy way to elevate your holiday table and pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, or leftovers.
A Fresh Take on a Holiday Classic
For many families, cranberry sauce is a holiday staple — often a canned classic served straight from the dish. Making it from scratch is fast and rewarding: fresh or frozen cranberries simmer with sugar and water until they burst and thicken, and adding mandarin oranges brings a sweet citrus lift that balances the cranberries’ natural tartness. It’s a simple change that makes the sauce feel homemade and festive.
Ingredients
(Printable recipe details and exact measurements are given below.)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 (12 oz) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 small can mandarin oranges, drained (optional, but recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a smooth, jewel-toned cranberry sauce with bursts of sweet mandarin.
- Combine the sugar and water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add the cranberries, return to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer. Cook the cranberries for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until many berries pop and the mixture begins to thicken.
- Stir in the drained mandarin oranges and simmer an additional 5–7 minutes, until most cranberries are split and the sauce has reached your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. The mixture will thicken as it cools.
- Transfer to a covered container and refrigerate. Serve warm or chilled.
Serving and Storage
This recipe yields about 10 servings. Serve the sauce alongside turkey, ham, or roasted poultry. It’s delicious warm, but chilled sauce is equally good and makes an attractive addition to the plate. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stovetop if you prefer it warm.
Ways to Use Leftover Cranberry Sauce
Leftovers are versatile — try these ideas:
- Spread cranberry sauce on turkey or ham sandwiches for a sweet-tart contrast.
- Stir a spoonful into plain yogurt or oatmeal for breakfast with a citrus twist.
- Top baked brie or softened cream cheese with a spoonful for an easy appetizer.
- Serve in a pretty dish garnished with extra orange segments, a sprinkle of orange zest, or a rosemary sprig for a festive presentation.
Easy Variations and Tips
- Ginger: Add a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger while cooking for a warm, spiced note that complements the mandarins.
- Orange zest: Stir in a teaspoon of orange zest at the end to intensify the citrus aroma.
- Less sweet: Reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a tarter sauce. Taste as you go and adjust to your preference.
- Make ahead: Cranberry sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge. Flavors meld and often taste better after resting.
Recipe Details
- Yield: 10 servings
- Prep time: about 5 minutes
- Cook time: about 15 minutes
- Total time: about 20 minutes
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 90
- Total fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 2 mg
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 22 g
- Protein: 0 g
Other Holiday Dinner Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Side dishes for Thanksgiving dinner (a roundup of classic sides that pair well with turkey)
- Bacon-wrapped stuffing balls — great as an appetizer or side
- Fluffy mashed potatoes with cottage cheese — a creamy twist on a classic
Final Notes
This cranberry sauce with mandarin oranges is a fast, flavorful alternative to store-bought versions. With bright citrus notes and a balanced sweetness, it’s a simple recipe that adds a homemade touch to any holiday meal. Try the variations above to customize the flavor to your family’s taste.
