Nightshade Free Classic Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is one of those dishes that looks impressive on the table but comes together with almost no effort — just a handful of real, whole ingredients and a single saucepan. For anyone avoiding nightshades, this recipe is a natural fit because cranberries, citrus, and sugar are completely free of peppers, tomatoes, and their relatives, with zero substitutions needed. The orange zest and fresh orange juice give the sauce a bright, fragrant lift that balances the tartness of the cranberries beautifully. A touch of cinnamon, if you choose to add it, rounds everything out with a warm, spiced note that feels right at home on a holiday spread. As the berries burst and the sauce thickens, your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible — it's one of those cooking moments that makes the whole process worthwhile. The sauce continues to set as it cools, so you end up with a glossy, jewel-toned condiment that works just as well spooned over roasted meat as it does alongside a classic holiday plate. Make it ahead and keep it chilled until you're ready to serve — it only gets better with a little time to rest.
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Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the sugar, water, and orange juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes.
- 2
Add the cranberries and orange zest, then increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, 10–12 minutes. Watch the heat — the sauce can bubble up quickly once the berries break down.
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