Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce

Sweet, tart, and beautifully vibrant, Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce adds a bold twist to a classic holiday favorite. With its jewel-like hue and citrusy brightness, this sauce doesn’t just complement your Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey — it elevates it. The infusion of blood orange brings a depth of flavor that balances the natural tanginess of cranberries, making every bite feel festive and fresh.

What makes this version so special is the layering of flavors. You get the earthy punch of cranberries, the subtle bitterness of blood orange zest, and the juicy sweetness of its flesh. Simmered down into a thick, glossy sauce, it's a perfect match for rich meats, spooned over desserts, or swirled into yogurt for a vibrant breakfast twist.

Why You’ll Love This Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce

This isn’t your basic cranberry sauce. The addition of blood oranges introduces a natural sweetness and rich citrus flavor that feels luxurious and unexpected. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and stores beautifully. Whether you're hosting a big holiday dinner or just want to try something new, this recipe delivers both simplicity and sophistication.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce, you’ll need a medium saucepan (preferably non-stick or stainless steel), a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring, and a citrus zester or microplane. The saucepan allows even heat distribution for a consistent simmer, while the wooden spoon prevents sticking and ensures gentle mixing without crushing the fruit prematurely. A citrus zester extracts aromatic oils from the blood orange peel, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Preparation Tips

Use fresh cranberries when possible for the best texture, but frozen works well too. Zest the blood orange before juicing it – it’s easier and you won’t waste any of that fragrant peel. Simmer the sauce gently; don’t rush it. Let the cranberries pop and break down naturally for the ideal consistency. Taste as you go – blood oranges vary in sweetness, so you might want to adjust the sugar slightly to suit your preference.

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Ingredients for this Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce

• 12 oz (about 3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries, rinsed and drained
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• ½ cup freshly squeezed blood orange juice (from 2–3 blood oranges)
• 1 tsp blood orange zest
• ¼ cup water
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract (optional, for depth)

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Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the cranberries well and discard any soft or shriveled ones. Zest the blood oranges using a microplane, then cut and juice them until you have at least ½ cup of juice. Measure out the remaining ingredients so everything is ready to go once the heat is on.

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Step 2: Combine in a Saucepan

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, blood orange juice, zest, water, and sugar. Stir everything together and let the mixture come to a gentle boil. You’ll start to hear the cranberries pop as they heat.

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Step 3: Simmer and Reduce

Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally. The cranberries will burst, and the sauce will begin to thicken into a jam-like consistency.

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Step 4: Add Final Flavor Notes

During the last 2 minutes of simmering, stir in the ground cinnamon (if using), vanilla extract, and a small pinch of salt. These final touches bring out the richness and complexity of the sauce. Stir to combine well.

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Step 5: Cool and Store

Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Transfer to a bowl or jar and refrigerate. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Best flavor develops after a few hours of rest or overnight in the fridge.

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Notes

Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce is a flexible recipe. You can control the sweetness, spice level, and even the texture depending on your preferences. If you prefer a smoother sauce, mash the cranberries slightly with the back of your spoon as they cook or pulse briefly in a blender once cooled. For extra citrusy flair, add a splash of lemon or orange liqueur. This sauce also doubles as a fantastic topping for cheesecake, pancakes, or roasted vegetables.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Boiling too hard: High heat can burn the sugar or make the cranberries break down too fast. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Skipping the zest: The zest adds essential oils and citrus aroma that deepen the flavor profile.
• Over-sweetening early on: Wait until the sauce has reduced to taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Blood oranges vary in sweetness.
• Not letting it cool: The sauce thickens as it cools. Judging the consistency too early may lead you to overcook it.

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Storage Instructions

Store the cooled sauce in an airtight glass jar or container in the refrigerator. It will last up to 10 days. For longer storage, freeze in small batches for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Stir well before use, as natural separation may occur.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
• Calories: ~60
• Total Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 1mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 0g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Yes, regular oranges work fine. However, blood oranges offer a unique color and slightly richer flavor.

Can I make this cranberry sauce in advance?

Absolutely. It actually tastes better after sitting for a day or two in the fridge.

Can I freeze Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce?

Yes, it freezes well. Just store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of sugar?

Maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar can be good alternatives. Adjust to taste.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

How can I make it spicier or more festive?

Add a pinch of cloves, nutmeg, or a splash of brandy or orange liqueur.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Just use a larger pot and extend the cooking time slightly.

Can I use this as a topping for desserts?

Yes! It’s great on cheesecake, pound cake, ice cream, or even yogurt.

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Conclusion

Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce is a holiday essential reimagined with bold citrus and a velvety texture. It’s quick, adaptable, and adds a gourmet touch to any meal. Whether you're serving it traditionally with turkey or thinking outside the box, this sauce delivers standout flavor with minimal effort. Make it ahead, tweak it to your taste, and let it shine on your holiday table or beyond.

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