This maple cranberry sauce is naturally sweetened with real maple syrup, comes together in about 10–15 minutes, and is easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.
If you’re looking to cut back on refined sugar this holiday season, try this simple maple cranberry sauce. It’s sweetened with real maple syrup (you can substitute honey, coconut sugar, or another natural sweetener if you prefer), and it’s quick to make. You can also prepare it ahead of time and reheat it on the day you serve it.
I usually keep the sauce straightforward, adding just orange zest and juice to balance the tart cranberries. Below you’ll find ingredient details, step-by-step instructions, storage tips, and ideas for variations so you can make the sauce your own.
Maple Cranberry Sauce | 1-Minute Video
Homemade Cranberry Sauce Ingredients
To make this maple cranberry sauce you will need:
- Fresh or frozen cranberries (one 12-ounce bag), rinsed and picked over.
- Maple syrup (about 1/3 cup), or another natural sweetener to taste.
- Orange — both zest and juice (about 1/4 cup juice) to brighten the sauce.
- Water to create the cooking base.
- Optional add-ins — spices, a splash of liqueur, or extra fruit (ideas below).
How to Make Cranberry Sauce
Follow these simple steps:
- Combine the ingredients. In a medium saucepan, stir together the cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, and water.
- Simmer. Heat over medium-high until the mixture comes to a simmer. Reduce to medium-low and simmer for 8–10 minutes, until most of the berries have popped and the sauce has thickened. Remember it will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Season and serve. Taste and add more maple syrup if desired. Serve warm or chill in the refrigerator and serve cold, depending on your preference.
Possible Variations
This recipe is a great base for creativity. Try one of these ideas:
- Spiced: Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice for warmth.
- Boozy: Stir in a splash of bourbon, brandy, port, or orange liqueur after cooking for depth of flavor.
- Extra fruit: Mix in chopped apples, plums, grapes, pomegranate arils, or other berries for texture and variety.
How to Store Cranberry Sauce
Store your cranberry sauce this way:
- Refrigerate: Transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Preserve: If you prefer canning, use safe water-bath canning methods to store for up to 1 year.
Recipe Card
Maple Cranberry Sauce
This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes roughly 12 minutes total (2 minutes prep, 10 minutes cook).
Ingredients
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries, rinsed and picked over
- 1/3 cup maple syrup, or more to taste
- 1/3 cup water
- Juice and zest of one orange (about 1/4 cup juice)
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan and stir to combine.
- Heat over medium-high until the mixture reaches a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer 8–10 minutes, until the sauce thickens and most cranberries have popped.
- Taste and add extra maple syrup if needed. Serve warm or chill and serve cold.
Notes
To store, cool to room temperature and transfer to a sealed container. Refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Did you make this?
Let me know how it turned out in the comments below!