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Ina Garten Make Ahead Cranberry Sauce

Make ahead cranberry sauce simmers fresh cranberries with apple, orange, and sugar until thick and tender. Chill it for at least 4 hours or overnight for a bright, chunky side that’s ready before serving.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chilling 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 209
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup water
  • 1.75 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 bag (12 oz) fresh cranberries picked over
  • 1 Granny Smith apple medium, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 orange zested and juiced

Equipment

  • 1 3-quart saucepan

Method
 

  1. Combine the water and sugar in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add the cranberries and bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the cranberries have burst.
  4. Stir in the apple, orange zest, and orange juice.
  5. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until the apple is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and cool the sauce completely.
  7. Transfer the sauce to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

For the best texture, refrigerate the sauce overnight. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; freezer-friendly for up to 2 months. For a refined-sugar-free variation, use an equal amount of coconut sugar, noting the flavor and color will differ.