Nitrate & Nitrite Free Classic Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce sounds simple enough, but the jarred versions at the grocery store often contain preservatives — including nitrates and nitrites used to extend shelf life — that many people are actively trying to avoid. This homemade version sidesteps all of that with just fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, water, and a bright hit of orange zest and juice. The result is a glossy, jewel-toned sauce that's tart, sweet, and deeply fruity in a way no canned product can match. As the cranberries burst and the liquid reduces, the sauce thickens naturally — no additives, no shortcuts, just real fruit doing its thing. A pinch of cinnamon stirred in at the end adds a gentle warmth that makes the whole thing feel a little more special. It comes together in under 15 minutes on the stovetop and keeps beautifully in the fridge, so you can make it ahead without any stress. Whether it's anchoring a holiday table or brightening up a weeknight roast, this is the kind of simple, clean recipe you'll come back to again and again.

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