• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
Urban Farmie
  • Home
  • About
  • Recipes
  • Resources
    • Gardening
    • Substitutes
  • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • About
  • Recipes
  • Resources
    • Gardening
    • Substitutes
  • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Recipes » Sauces, Dips, Dressings

    Published: October 27, 2022 | Last Modified: November 8, 2022 by Shruthi Baskaran-Makanju | This post may contain affiliate links. 💬 - 6 Comments

    Elevated Canned Cranberry Sauce!

    Dairy Free RecipesGluten Free RecipesNut Free RecipesVegan RecipesVegetarian Recipes
    Shares9FacebookPin9
    Looking for a delicious canned cranberry sauce recipe? Learn how to make canned cranberry sauce with this easy recipe. Just 5 ingredients!
    Jump to Recipe Pin Recipe

    The holidays are a hectic time of year, and sometimes the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. If you have a can of cranberry sauce in your pantry and you don't know what to do then, never fear. This elevated canned cranberry sauce is here to save the day!

    Close up view of cranberry sauce in white bowl, with oranges in the background.

    This post contains helpful tips and tricks! If you're in a rush, please use the "Jump to Recipe" link!

    This post might contain affiliate links. If you click on those and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    💭 Why you'll love this recipe

    If you need more convincing to give this canned cranberry sauce recipe a shot, consider the following: 

    • It's easy to make. This canned cranberry sauce recipe is quick and easy, which means you'll actually want to make it and eat it all over again.
    • It was cheap. Homemade goods are frequently more pricey. Unlike this recipe! Canned cranberry sauce is one of the cheapest grocery store goods, so this recipe is inexpensive. Plus! It only requires five ingredients.
    • It's versatile. Cranberry sauce isn't just for Thanksgiving anymore! This recipe can be used in all sorts of dishes, from savory pork chops to sweet desserts. You just have to be creative and see what you can come up with!

    📋 Ingredients and notes

    With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn that can of cranberry sauce into a delicious holiday side dish. To make this recipe, you'll need canned cranberry sauce (whole or jellied), sugar, orange juice, water, and orange zest.

    Labeled ingredient list for elevated canned cranberry sauce - check recipe card for details!

    Notes and Variations

    • Canned Cranberry Sauce. You can use either either whole or jellied canned cranberry sauce. However, you shouldn't worry because there aren't many differences between the flavor and texture of these two varieties! You can also check out my homemade cranberry sauce recipe or cranberry sauce made with dried cranberries if you want something different!
    • Adjusting the Sweetness. You can use white sugar, brown sugar, or maple syrup to sweeten your canned cranberry sauce. Simply adjust it to your taste.
    • Adding tartness to the recipe. You can add lemon juice to your canned cranberry sauce recipe to give it a tangier flavor. Just adjust the taste according to your preference.

    📖 How to Make Best Canned Cranberry Sauce

    If you're using canned whole cranberry sauce: pour it into a small pot and bring it to a low boil. Once it starts to boil, lower the heat and let it simmer. If using a jelled sauce, cut it up into large cubes or chunks and stir them with a wooden spoon to break down chunks.

    Hand spooning canned cranberry sauce from a can into a pot.
    Overhead view showing canned cranberry sauce in a pot with a whisk.

    Then, add to a small pot and bring it to a low boil, and then lower the heat and let it simmer. Add the orange juice and orange zest, and sugar to the saucepan.

    Overhead view showing cranberry sauce breaking down from chunks, with whisk in the pot.
    Overhead view showing orange juice added to cranberry sauce in pot.

    Simmer for 4-5 more minutes until it reaches the desired consistency. Serve this elevated canned cranberry sauce chilled!

    Overhead view showing smooth cranberry sauce with wooden spatula in the pot.

    👩🏽‍🍳Top Tips for Elevating Canned Cranberry Sauce!

    Whether you're short on time or just don't feel like dealing with the mess of making your own cranberry sauce from scratch, we've got you covered. Check out our following tips below.

    • Look for brands that use real sugar. Many commercial cranberry sauces are loaded with high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners. Not only do these ingredients impact the flavor of the sauce, but they also affect its texture. Real sugar will give you a sauce that's thick and glossy, while HFCS will result in a thinner, more watery sauce. 
    • Avoid brands that add citrus fruits. You don't want your cranberry sauce to taste like oranges or lemons. The natural tartness of cranberries is part of what makes them so great.
    • Make sure there aren't any chunks floating around in the can. You don't want to open up your can of cranberry sauce only to find that it's full of mysterious lumps and bumps. A quick shake should take care of rogue chunks!
    • Don't be afraid to mix it up. Canned cranberry sauce is extremely versatile so don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors. Try adding a little orange zest, fresh ginger, or a splash of bourbon. The possibilities are endless!

    👩🏽‍🍳Troubleshooting FAQs

    Is cranberry sauce served hot or cold?

    It really depends on personal preference. Some people prefer the taste of cold cranberry sauce, while others find that it tastes better when it's warmed up. There are also those who don't really have a preference either way. Ultimately, it comes down to what you like best.

    How long is canned cranberry sauce good for?

    Canned cranberry sauce only has a shelf life of about 18 months. After that, the sauce can start to lose its flavor and become watery.

    How do you thicken canned cranberry sauce?

    You don't have to worry about making the sauce thicker because it is already thick. The ingredients will help it thicken as it simmers on the stove.

    🍴 Serving and storage suggestions

    This flavorful cranberry sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to five days, or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. Also, if you have leftovers that you want to save for later, transfer them into a sizable zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to six months.

    Golden spoon lifting cranberry sauce from a white bowl.

    When serving this canned cranberry sauce, it will be entirely up to you whether you want to it cold or warm. If you want to serve this warm, you can reheat it for a minute on the stove or in a microwave.

    Making this sauce prior to serving and storing it in the fridge for a few hours or even a day or two will allow it to be served cool. Just put it on the dining table after giving it a quick stir!

    If you like this recipe, check out my other holiday recipes:

    • Easy Six Ingredient Vegan Dinner Rolls
    • The Ultimate Guide to Vegan Turkey Roast!
    • Vegan Stuffing Recipe
    • Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes (No Drain!)

    Did you make this recipe?! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
    Please leave a comment and a star rating and let me know how it went! We love hearing from you, thank you so much

    Overhead view of cranberry sauce in white bowl, with orange zest as garnish.
    Print Recipe
    No ratings yet

    Elevate Canned Cranberry Sauce!

    Looking for a delicious canned cranberry sauce recipe? Learn how to make canned cranberry sauce with this easy recipe. Just 5 ingredients!
    Prep Time5 mins
    Cook Time15 mins
    Total Time20 mins
    Course: Sauce
    Cuisine: American
    Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian
    Servings: 6 servings
    Calories: 174kcal
    Author: Shruthi Baskaran-Makanju

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup sugar
    • ¾ cup orange juice
    • ¼ cup water
    • 2 teaspoons orange zest, optional
    • 14.5 oz canned cranberry sauce, whole or jellied

    Instructions

    • If using canned whole cranberry sauce: pour it into a small pot and bring it to a low boil. Once it starts to boil, lower heat and let it simmer. 
      If using jelled sauce: Cut it up into large cubes or chunks and stir them with a wooden spoon to break down chunks. Then, add to a small pot and bring it to a low boil, and then lower heat and let it simmer.
    • Add ¾ cup of orange juice and 2 teaspoons of orange zest, and 1 cup of sugar to the sauce pan.
    • Simmer for 4-5 more minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

    Video

    Notes

    • Look for brands that use real sugar. Many commercial cranberry sauces are loaded with high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners, which affect texture. 
    • Avoid brands that add citrus fruits. Since you're adding orange juice, you don't want to overwhelm the taste of the cranberries. 
    • Make sure there aren't any chunks floating around in the can. A quick shake should take care of rogue chunks!
    • Don't be afraid to mix it up. Canned cranberry sauce is extremely versatile so don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors. Try adding a little orange zest, fresh ginger, or a splash of bourbon. The possibilities are endless

    Nutrition

    Calories: 174kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.05g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 119mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 39g | Vitamin A: 106IU | Vitamin C: 26mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 0.2mg
    Tried this recipe?Tag @urbanfarmie or #urbanfarmie to let me know – I would LOVE to see your creations!
    « Stuffed Acorn Squash 
    100 Amazing Vegetarian Thanksgiving Sides! »

    Download your seasonal eating guide!

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Traci

      February 18, 2023 at 1:45 pm

      You are making me crave a Turkey sandwich with some cranberry sauce right now! This sounds incredible!

      Reply
    2. Jenn

      February 18, 2023 at 3:45 pm

      5 stars
      Thank you for showing me how to jazz up cranberry sauce from a can! I can't get fresh berries often, but the canned stuff is horrid. Your recipe is genius!

      Reply
    3. Liz

      February 18, 2023 at 6:28 pm

      5 stars
      My dad loves canned cranberry sauce but this was such a great way to take it to the next level! Thanks for the recipe!

      Reply
    4. Glenda

      February 18, 2023 at 7:09 pm

      5 stars
      This added such a wonderful freshness and brightness to everyday canned cranberry sauce. We served it with roasted chicken and it was delicious!

      Reply
    5. Lisa Douglas

      February 18, 2023 at 9:15 pm

      5 stars
      OMG I love how you incorporated the flavorings from the typically homemade stuff to put into this elevated canned version, YES! This was SO freaking awesome!!! Thank youuuu!! Will be making again and again!

      Reply
      • Shruthi Baskaran-Makanju

        February 19, 2023 at 10:17 pm

        Thank you so much!!

        Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Shruthi Baskaran - Recipe Developer, Food Photographer, and Blogger at Urban Farmie

    I am Shruthi, the recipe developer, photographer and blogger behind Urban Farmie. I have two graduate degrees from Stanford, one focused on food systems. And I hope to bring you everything you need for healthy-ish, comforting, nourishing vegetarian cooking.

    Read more →

    Recipe Key

    Dairy free
    Gluten free
    Nut free
    Vegan
    Vegetarian

    Fall Favorites

    • Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
    • No Chill Chocolate Chip Cookies
    • Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup
    • Ethiopian Cabbage
    year-round produce guide

    Get Every Recipe To Your Inbox!

    As Seen On

    Footer

    Urban Farmie

    Urban Farmie

    Seasonal, global, vegetarian recipes and the stories behind them. Inspired by life and travels to 60+ countries. Always authentic, never boring.

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube

    Popular Posts

    Nigerian Jollof Rice

    Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

    Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread (or Quiche!)

    Chana Masala

    Healthy Samosas

    Moroccan Shakshuka

    Back To Top

    Copyright Black Bicycle LLC. © 2023
    Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Disclosure Policy | Website Accessibility Statement