Lightly Sweetened Basic Cranberry Sauce Recipe - A Simple Holiday Favorite

Homemade cranberry sauce is one of my favorite Thanksgiving sides, but is something I don't make too often otherwise. Many recipes for cranberry sauce can use a full cup of sugar, but I wanted a lighter version that still tasted fresh, sweet, and not overly tart. This recipe only uses ¼ cup of sugar and a bit of maple syrup at the end to taste.

I hope it's a recipe you enjoy at your Thanksgiving or Christmas table surrounded by those you love!

Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 12 oz fresh cranberries

• ½ cup water

• ¼ cup sugar

• 1 tsp maple syrup (added at the end, to taste)

  
  

Instructions

1. Add cranberries, water, and sugar to a small saucepan.

2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.

4. Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup 1/2 tsp at a time until it reaches your desired sweetness. I went with 1 teaspoon.

5. Let cool to room temperature and then refrigerate. The sauce will continue to thicken as it rests.

Note

• This recipe is best made a day ahead of time, as the flavors round out and the sweetness balances with the tartness.