This Bourbon Cranberry Sauce is a tangy and sweet side dish that brings a festive twist to your table. The burst of cranberries mixed with smooth bourbon makes it unforgettable!
Honestly, it’s a perfect pairing for turkey, but I’ve also enjoyed it on toast! Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself sneaking spoonfuls from the pot. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are preferred for this sauce. If you can’t find fresh ones, you could use frozen cranberries, just remember not to thaw them first!
Bourbon: The bourbon adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you want a non-alcoholic option, substitute with 1/4 cup of apple cider or a splash of vanilla extract.
Orange Juice and Zest: Fresh is best! If fresh oranges are unavailable, bottled juice will work too, though the flavor won’t be quite as bright. You can also use lemon juice for a different twist.
Rosemary: This adds a nice herbal touch. Feel free to swap it with thyme or omit it completely if you prefer a simpler flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Cranberries Burst Perfectly?
The key to getting the perfect burst of flavor from your cranberries is gentle cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by rinsing and picking through the cranberries to remove any bad ones.
- When cooking, keep the heat medium to avoid burning the sugar; dissolve it fully before adding cranberries.
- Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. This allows the cranberries to pop and release their natural juices.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on the mix until it’s thickened (about 10-12 minutes).
Letting it cool will make it even thicker, so don’t rush this step!
Bourbon Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
- 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (plus extra sprig for garnish)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bourbon cranberry sauce will take about 20-25 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time. Perfect for making ahead and serving later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water in a colander. As you rinse them, be sure to pick out any damaged or shriveled berries you find. This ensures that your sauce is nice and fresh!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix together the sugar, bourbon, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and grated orange zest. Place the pan over medium heat and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved, making sure the mixture doesn’t boil just yet.
3. Add the Cranberries:
Now, add the rinsed cranberries, ground cinnamon (if using), chopped rosemary, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan. This is where the magic happens!
4. Cook the Sauce:
Bring your mixture to a gentle boil. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally, and watch as the cranberries burst open and the sauce thickens.
5. Let it Cool:
Once it’s thickened and the cranberries have burst, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the sauce cool to room temperature, as it will get thicker as it cools.
6. Serve it Up:
Transfer the cranberry sauce to a lovely serving bowl. You can garnish it with a sprig of fresh rosemary and a touch of orange zest if you’d like. It makes for a beautiful presentation!
7. Enjoy!
This bourbon cranberry sauce can be served warm, chilled, or at room temperature. It goes great with turkey, ham, or even on toast, so get ready to enjoy a sweet-tart delight!
Happy cooking and enjoy your festive feasting!
Can I Make This Bourbon Cranberry Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make this sauce up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well and the flavors will actually improve over time!
Can I Use Different Sweeteners?
Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute granulated sugar with alternatives like brown sugar or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave some space for expansion.
What Can I Use Instead of Bourbon?
If you want to skip the bourbon, try using apple cider or non-alcoholic vanilla extract for a different but still lovely flavor. You can use the same amount as stated in the recipe for bourbon.
