Sugarless Cranberry Sauce

Prep: 10 min Cook: 8 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A vibrant, tangy cranberry sauce sweetened naturally with fresh oranges, perfect for holiday tables or any festive occasion. Its bright citrus flavor complements poultry and pork dishes, offering a healthy, vitamin C-rich addition that appeals to both traditional and health-conscious eaters.

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Ingredients

  • 12 oz. fresh cranberries
  • 6 oz. can frozen orange juice concentrate
  • 3/4 to 1 cup water
  • 2 sweet peeled oranges
  • grated orange rind (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine rinsed cranberries, orange juice, and water.
  2. Stir over medium heat until the cranberries pop open.
  3. Add chopped peeled oranges and grated orange rind if desired.
  4. Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.
  5. Serve warm or chilled.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, you can blend the sauce after cooking. If you prefer a sweeter taste without sugar, consider adding a bit of honey or agave syrup. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth. This sauce pairs beautifully with Alice'S Roast for a festive meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this vibrant cranberry sauce as a tangy complement to roasted meats, particularly turkey or chicken. It also works well as a topping for pancakes or yogurt, adding a burst of flavor. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside A. R. P. Punch at holiday gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Stir well to maintain a consistent texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sugarless Cranberry Sauce contains roughly 167 calories, with 2g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value).

167 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.1g 4% DV
Total Fat 0.5g 1% DV
Carbs 40.8g 15% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 22.6g 45% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 67.6mg 3% DV
Potassium 279.8mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 374.8mcg 42% DV
Vitamin C 19.5mg 22% DV
Calcium 36.5mg 3% DV
Iron 1.3mg 7% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in this recipe. Just be sure to rinse them thoroughly before cooking. Keep in mind that the cooking time might be slightly longer due to their frozen state, so adjust accordingly.

Is it possible to make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cranberry sauce can be made a day or two in advance. Just prepare it as directed and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served.

How can I adjust the consistency of the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water you add or cook it for a longer period to allow more liquid to evaporate. Conversely, if you want it thinner, simply add a bit more water during the cooking process.

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).

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