Homemade Cranberry Sauce (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Sauce Base

01 - 12 ounces cranberries (1 bag), rinsed
02 - ½ cup orange juice (store bought or freshly squeezed)
03 - ¾ cup granulated sugar

→ Flavorings

04 - ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 2 tablespoons orange zest

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Add all the ingredients to a smaller pot and stir to combine. Turn the heat to a medium-high and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
02 - Reduce the heat to a medium and continue cooking for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice the cranberries will burst as they cook.
03 - Let cool completely at room temperature before serving.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - If using frozen cranberries, there is no need to thaw them out first.
02 - Don't skip the orange juice or replace it with water, it'll help prevent the cranberry sauce from tasting bitter.
03 - For reduced-sugar version, use about 1/2 cup sugar and adjust to taste. For sugar-free, substitute with Splenda or Stevia.
04 - Sugar can be replaced with brown sugar, maple syrup or honey.
05 - If sauce hasn't thickened after chilling, simmer for another 5 minutes, then cool again.
06 - When stored properly, sauce can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
07 - Can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 6 months.