crockpot cranberry sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
crockpot cranberry sauce recipe
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The Best crockpot cranberry sauce recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite crockpot cranberry sauce recipe. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just need a delicious side dish for a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to please. I love that it’s made in a crockpot, which makes it so easy to prepare and cook.

The best part is that it’s made with fresh or frozen cranberries, which are packed with antioxidants and flavor. This recipe is also incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a condiment, use it as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, or even make it into a sauce for pork or turkey.

My kids love helping me make this recipe because they get to play with the colorful cranberries and stir the pot every few hours. It’s also great for teaching them about cooking and where food comes from.

I’ve been making this recipe for so long now that I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve made it. My family loves when I make this because they know they’ll get to enjoy the delicious flavors of the season in the comfort of our own home.

Crockpot Cranberry Sauce

Crockpot Cranberry Sauce

4.9 from 1802 votes

This slow cooker cranberry sauce is incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients. The cranberries simmer gently with orange juice and sugar until they burst and the sauce thickens into a sweet-tart condiment.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time3 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time3 hours 5 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 150 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup water
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the cranberries under cold water and discard any that are bruised or soft.
2Place the cranberries in the slow cooker and add the sugar, orange juice, water, and cinnamon stick.
3Stir gently with a wooden spoon to combine all ingredients.
4Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 3 hours.
5After 2 hours, stir the mixture once.
6The cranberries will pop and release their juices, and the sauce will thicken as it cooks.
7After 3 hours, remove the lid and stir in the vanilla extract.
8The sauce should be thick and the cranberries mostly broken down.
9If you prefer a smoother sauce, use a potato masher to gently mash the cranberries to your desired consistency.
10Turn off the slow cooker and let the sauce cool for about 15 minutes.
11Remove the cinnamon stick and transfer the sauce to a serving bowl.
12The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
13Serve warm or chilled.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker (4 quart or larger)
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon
Ladle
Serving bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 150 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 2mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 34g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

You can reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup for a tarter sauce. For a festive twist, add a tablespoon of orange zest or a splash of bourbon after cooking. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Watch Video Of How Crockpot Cranberry Sauce Works

This crockpot cranberry sauce is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just need a delicious side dish for a weeknight meal.

It’s incredibly versatile too – use it as a condiment, topping for yogurt or oatmeal, or even make it into a sauce for pork or turkey.

The best part is that it’s made with fresh or frozen cranberries which are packed with antioxidants and flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Cranberry Sauce

1. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries directly in the crockpot without thawing. Just add them to the slow cooker with the other ingredients and increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes. The sauce will turn out just as thick and flavorful.

2. How long does homemade cranberry sauce last in the fridge?

Homemade cranberry sauce will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors actually get better after a day or two as they meld together. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing.

3. Can I make this recipe sugar free?

Yes, you can substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or stevia. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners may make the sauce slightly thinner, so you might need to cook it a bit longer to thicken. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste.

4. Why is my cranberry sauce too runny?

If your sauce is too runny, it likely needs more time to cook. The cranberries release pectin as they break down, which thickens the sauce naturally. Cook it on low for an additional 30 to 60 minutes with the lid off to let some liquid evaporate. Alternatively, you can mash a few cranberries against the side of the pot to release more pectin.

5. Can I add other fruits to this recipe?

Absolutely. You can add chopped apples, pears, or even dried apricots for extra texture and flavor. Orange zest and juice are classic additions that complement the cranberries well. Just keep the total fruit amount similar to the cranberries so the sauce sets properly.

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