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Sugar-Free Homemade Orange Cranberry Sauce

Whip up a delicious sugar-free orange cranberry sauce with this easy homemade recipe. Perfect for holidays & healthy eating!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 70
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries (340 g)
  • 1/2 cup fresh-squeezed orange juice (120 ml) (about 1 large orange)
  • 1/4 cup grade A maple syrup (60 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional add-ins ½ teaspoon orange zest, cinnamon stick, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, chopped pecans, blueberries, etc.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Spoon

Method
 

Combine Ingredients
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, fresh-squeezed orange juice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Add any optional spices or zest at this stage.
Boil and Simmer
  1. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 6-8 minutes.
Stir Frequently
  1. Stir the sauce often throughout the simmering process to prevent the cranberries from sticking to the bottom of the pot and scorching. This is crucial for achieving an even cook.
Check for Doneness
  1. The sauce is ready when it has thickened nicely and most of the cranberries have burst open. You’re looking for a consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Pop Remaining Cranberries (Optional)
  1. If you prefer a smoother sauce or want to ensure all cranberries are broken down, gently mash any remaining whole cranberries with the back of a spoon or a potato masher.
Cool Completely
  1. Remove the pot from the heat. Allow the cranberry sauce to cool completely to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Cranberries: Both fresh and frozen cranberries work beautifully. Frozen cranberries can break down more easily during cooking, potentially leading to a slightly smoother sauce naturally. The key is to ensure they are ripe for the best flavor.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice is crucial for the best flavor and to avoid added sugars found in many store-bought versions. If you don't have fresh oranges, a 100% pure, no-sugar-added bottled orange juice can be a substitute, but the flavor won't be as vibrant.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup provides a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugar and adds a unique depth of flavor. For a strictly no-sugar-added option, consider alternatives like stevia or erythritol, but adjust quantities significantly as their sweetness intensity differs.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.