I like cranberry sauce that’s not overly sweet but still has that bright, tangy kick. There’s something so comforting about the sweet-tart flavor of Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce. It’s a classic dish that brightens every holiday table with its deep red color and fruity aroma. The balance of tart cranberries and the mild sweetness of sugar makes it perfect for pairing with rich, savory meats. The best part about making it yourself is the control you have — you can make it chunkier, smoother, or even add your favorite twist like orange zest or warm spices.

I have made this recipe so many times during the holidays. I use Ocean Spray cranberries because they’re plump, consistent, and have the perfect flavor balance. Always use a good saucepan and take your time simmering them. The secret to the perfect cranberry sauce is patience — letting it bubble just enough for the berries to burst and thicken naturally.

You can serve this cranberry sauce with roasted turkey, baked ham, or even spoon it over warm biscuits. Some people love it with cheese platters, and it’s also delicious as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or yogurt. Its vibrant flavor adds joy to every bite, whether it’s the main event or just a sidekick on your plate.

It’s Perfect For:

• Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners
• Turkey, chicken, or pork meals
• Leftover holiday sandwiches
• Cheese and charcuterie boards
• Desserts like cheesecake or ice cream

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen Ocean Spray cranberries (about 3 cups)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium-sized saucepan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Zester or microplane (for orange zest)
• Fine-mesh sieve (optional, for smoother sauce)
• Glass container or bowl for storing

How to Make Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce

Step 1

Prepare your ingredients: Rinse the cranberries under cool running water, discarding any that look soft or shriveled. Set them aside in a bowl. If you’re using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them — just use them straight from the freezer.

Step 2

Make the sugar syrup: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Place over medium-high heat and stir until the sugar fully dissolves. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil; this creates a simple syrup that will perfectly balance the tartness of the cranberries.

Step 3

Cook the cranberries: Add the cranberries to the boiling syrup and stir gently. The cranberries will start to pop as they cook — this is where the magic happens! Lower the heat slightly to maintain a steady simmer. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the cranberries have burst and the sauce begins to thicken naturally.

Step 4

Add flavor and finish: If desired, stir in the orange zest and cinnamon for a festive touch. Taste the sauce and adjust sweetness if needed — some people like it more tart, others prefer it sweeter. Continue simmering for another 2–3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5

Cool and serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cranberry sauce cool at room temperature. It will thicken even more as it cools. Transfer to a serving bowl or an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. You can make this up to a week ahead — it keeps beautifully!

Tips for the Best Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce

• Use fresh or frozen cranberries.
  Both work beautifully, but fresh ones create a brighter, more natural flavor.
• Don’t overcook the cranberries.
  Once they start to pop, lower the heat. Overcooking can make the sauce bitter.
• Add a touch of citrus.
  Orange zest or juice gives your sauce that festive sparkle and extra depth.
• Let it cool fully.
  It thickens as it cools, so don’t panic if it looks too thin at first.
• Adjust the sweetness.
  Taste before finishing—some people like it tart, others sweeter. Find your balance.
• Add a hint of spice.
  A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg gives your sauce a cozy, seasonal touch.
• Make it in advance.
  Cranberry sauce keeps perfectly in the fridge, and the flavors get richer overnight.

Optional Ingredients

• Orange juice – for a bright, citrusy lift.
• Maple syrup – to add deep, earthy sweetness.
• Grated apple – adds natural sweetness and texture.
• Chopped pecans – give a nutty crunch.
• Red wine – brings elegance and complexity.
• Vanilla extract – adds warmth and aroma.

How to Serve Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce

I love serving my cranberry sauce chilled, especially with a golden-brown turkey or roasted chicken. The contrast between the warm, savory meat and the cool, tangy sauce creates a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible. It’s not just a side dish — it’s that little pop of color and brightness that makes the meal complete.

I also enjoy using leftover cranberry sauce in creative ways. I’ll spread it on turkey sandwiches with a bit of cream cheese or use it as a glaze for pork chops. Sometimes, I even swirl it into oatmeal or Greek yogurt for a fruity, tart start to the morning. It’s one of those condiments that surprises you with its versatility.

When entertaining, I like to spoon the cranberry sauce into a glass dish and garnish it with thin orange slices or a sprig of rosemary. It instantly looks elegant and festive on any holiday table. You can even serve it warm over baked brie or camembert with crushed pecans for a cozy appetizer. The possibilities are endless when you get creative.

Is Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce Healthy?

Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce is quite healthy when made at home with minimal sugar. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, which can help support the immune system and digestion. The natural compounds in cranberries also promote urinary tract health.

While it’s a sweet side dish, you can easily control the sugar level. By adjusting sweetness or using honey or maple syrup instead, you get a healthier, more natural version without sacrificing flavor. It’s a wonderful way to add fruit to your meal without guilt.

Variations and Substitutions

• Orange Cranberry Sauce
  Replace half the water with orange juice and add a teaspoon of zest for a citrus twist that pairs beautifully with poultry.
• Spiced Holiday Cranberry Sauce
  Simmer with cinnamon sticks, cloves, or star anise to fill your kitchen with a cozy holiday aroma.
• Honey Cranberry Sauce
  Swap half the sugar for honey to create a lighter, floral sweetness that complements savory dishes.
• Apple Cranberry Sauce
  Add diced apples for extra body and a naturally sweet finish that balances cranberry tartness.
• Jalapeño Cranberry Sauce
  Add chopped jalapeño for a bold, spicy flavor—perfect for grilled meats or cream cheese dips.
• Red Wine Cranberry Sauce
  Replace some water with red wine for a sophisticated, rich taste perfect for elegant dinners.
• Ginger Cranberry Sauce
  Stir in freshly grated ginger to give your sauce a refreshing, zesty twist that cuts through sweetness.
• Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce
  Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol for a guilt-free option without compromising taste.

How to Store and Reheat

Let the sauce cool to room temperature before storing. Place it in an airtight glass or plastic container and refrigerate for up to 10 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

To reheat, transfer the sauce to a small saucepan and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or orange juice if it’s too thick. You can also serve it cold; its flavor deepens as it chills, making it equally delicious straight from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes! Frozen Ocean Spray cranberries work perfectly. You don’t need to thaw them—just cook a few minutes longer. The texture and flavor are just as good as fresh cranberries.

How can I make my sauce thicker or thinner?
For thicker sauce, simmer it longer until enough liquid evaporates or mash some of the berries. For thinner sauce, stir in a tablespoon of water or orange juice while cooking.

Can I make this cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, making it a day or two ahead enhances the flavor. Store it in the refrigerator in a covered container and simply bring it to room temperature before serving.

What if my cranberry sauce turns out too tart?
Add a bit more sugar, honey, or maple syrup to mellow out the acidity. A splash of orange juice also balances tartness beautifully without making it overly sweet.

Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Side DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

 Make the best Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce Recipe at home with this easy, flavorful guide. Learn how to serve, store, and customize your sauce for any occasion. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and year-round meals!

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup water

• 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen Ocean Spray cranberries (about 3 cups)

• 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Directions

• Prepare your ingredients: Rinse the cranberries under cool running water, discarding any that look soft or shriveled. Set them aside in a bowl. If you’re using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them — just use them straight from the freezer.
• Make the sugar syrup: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Place over medium-high heat and stir until the sugar fully dissolves. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil; this creates a simple syrup that will perfectly balance the tartness of the cranberries.
• Cook the cranberries: Add the cranberries to the boiling syrup and stir gently. The cranberries will start to pop as they cook — this is where the magic happens! Lower the heat slightly to maintain a steady simmer. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the cranberries have burst and the sauce begins to thicken naturally.
• Add flavor and finish: If desired, stir in the orange zest and cinnamon for a festive touch. Taste the sauce and adjust sweetness if needed — some people like it more tart, others prefer it sweeter. Continue simmering for another 2–3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Cool and serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cranberry sauce cool at room temperature. It will thicken even more as it cools. Transfer to a serving bowl or an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. You can make this up to a week ahead — it keeps beautifully!