Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce

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Deeply vibrant and bursting with bold flavor, this Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce brings a zesty twist to your traditional holiday spread. With the sweet-tart essence of cranberries married to the citrusy brightness of blood oranges, this sauce is as beautiful on the table as it is on your taste buds.

Whether you’re dressing up your Thanksgiving turkey, slathering it on a leftover sandwich, or spooning it over cheesecake, this sauce elevates every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a few wholesome ingredients.

What Kind of Cranberries Should I Use?

Fresh cranberries are ideal for this recipe. They pop while cooking, naturally thickening the sauce and releasing their unique tartness. If fresh aren’t available, frozen cranberries are a reliable alternative—no need to thaw first.

Ingredients for the Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce

• Fresh Cranberries – The base of the sauce, providing natural tartness and a thick, jammy texture.
• Blood Orange Juice – Offers a deeper citrus tone with hints of raspberry-like sweetness that balance the cranberries.
• Blood Orange Zest – Adds aromatic oils and a more intense citrus flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• Cinnamon Stick – Infuses a warm spice that’s perfect for holiday flavor.
• Water – Helps thin the mixture and prevents burning during simmering.

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How To Make the Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, blood orange juice, blood orange zest, sugar, water, and a cinnamon stick. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. The cranberries will burst and the sauce will thicken.

Step 3: Cool and Serve

Remove the cinnamon stick and allow the sauce to cool completely. As it cools, it will continue to thicken. Transfer to a bowl or jar and refrigerate until ready to serve.

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How to Serve and Store Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce

This sauce is best served chilled or at room temperature. You can make it up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What to Serve With Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce?

Turkey or Chicken

A natural fit on your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner table.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

The earthy-sweet flavor of these potatoes pairs beautifully. Try them here.

Cheesecake

Add a dollop on top for a fruity, tangy contrast.

Creamy Cranberry Salad

Double down on cranberry flavor with this nostalgic side. Find it here.

Ham

Especially glazed ham—the sweetness balances the saltiness.

Brie or Goat Cheese

Spread some sauce over warm cheese and serve with crackers.

Cranberry Orange Bread

Bring out the citrus notes even more with this easy quick bread. Check it out here.

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Want More Sauce and Spread Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Blood Orange Cranberry Sauce, explore more delicious toppings and sides that bring bold flavor to the table:

• Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam for a classic breakfast or dessert topper.
• Shrimp Butter Spread Recipe for your next charcuterie board.
• Cranberry Orange Relish for another festive twist.
• Cheesecake Fruit Salad that blends sweet fruit and creamy goodness.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of vanilla or a hint of clove? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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