Walnut Free Classic Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is one of those dishes that looks impressive on the table but comes together with almost no effort at all. Tart cranberries simmer down with sugar, water, and a bright hit of orange zest and juice until they burst into a glossy, jewel-toned sauce that smells absolutely incredible. A pinch of cinnamon stirred in at the end adds just enough warmth to make it feel special without overpowering the fruit. Store-bought versions often sneak in unexpected add-ins or are processed on shared equipment alongside tree nuts, so making it from scratch gives you full control over every single ingredient. This recipe keeps things beautifully simple — just clean, whole ingredients that let the cranberries shine. It works equally well spooned over a holiday roast, dolloped onto a cheese board, or eaten straight from the bowl with a spoon (no judgment). The sauce thickens naturally as it cools, so don't be alarmed if it looks a little loose right off the stove.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
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.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!