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Best Cranberry Sauce Recipe – Thanksgiving & Friendsgiving Side

By Lily

September 9, 2025

Introduction

This cranberry sauce recipe combines tart cranberries with just the right sweetness for a holiday side that’s both festive and flavorful. It’s an easy recipe that pairs beautifully with turkey, appetizers, or even as a dipping sauce.


Ingredients

  • 12 oz cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup apple juice or cider
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional)

Instructions

Heat liquid
Bring apple juice and sugar to a boil in a saucepan.

Cook cranberries
Add cranberries and simmer for 12 minutes until berries burst.

Add spice
Stir in ground cinnamon or simmer with a cinnamon stick for deeper flavor.

Cool & set
Remove from heat, discard cinnamon stick, and cool before serving.


Tips & Variations

  • Use maple syrup for a warmer sweetness.
  • Add a splash of orange liqueur for depth.
  • Pair with cheese boards as a festive dip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Balanced sweet-tart flavor.
  • Pairs well with both savory and sweet dishes.
  • Elegant yet simple to prepare.
  • A crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving classic.

Final Thoughts

This best cranberry sauce recipe is versatile, flavorful, and always a hit on holiday tables. It’s the perfect way to elevate your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving meal.

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