Lo-Cal Cranberry Sauce
A light and tangy cranberry sauce sweetened with sugar substitute, perfect for holiday dinners or any occasion needing a refreshing, low-calorie fruit accompaniment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the gelatin in 3 tablespoons of grape juice and set aside.
- Cook the washed cranberries with the remaining grape juice slowly until the cranberries are tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sugar substitute and the softened gelatin mixture.
- Chill the mixture until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest for brightness. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the cooked cranberries before adding the gelatin. For a different twist, try substituting the red grape juice with unsweetened apple juice. This recipe can also be made vegan by using agar-agar instead of gelatin.
Serving Suggestions
Lo-Cal Cranberry Sauce is a perfect accompaniment to turkey or chicken dishes, especially during holiday meals. It also pairs beautifully with Mama'S Old Fashioned Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal for a delightful breakfast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The cranberry sauce can be served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid boiling to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal Cranberry Sauce contains roughly 314 calories, with 2g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (52% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture. This will help maintain the right consistency of the sauce. Adjust the cooking time slightly if they are still frozen when added.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
You can easily adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar substitute you use. Start with the suggested 1/2 cup, then taste and add more if desired. Keep in mind that some substitutes are sweeter than sugar, so adjust accordingly.
Is this cranberry sauce suitable for canning?
This recipe is not recommended for canning because it contains gelatin, which may not create the proper environment for preservation. Instead, enjoy it fresh and store in the refrigerator or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).