This bourbon cranberry sauce is a tasty twist on a holiday classic! The tart cranberries mix beautifully with sweet sugar and a splash of bourbon, making it extra special.
Trust me, it adds a lovely zing to your turkey or ham! I love to serve it on the side, and it’s perfect for leftovers too – just spread it on toast for a quick treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for this sauce. If you can’t find them, frozen cranberries are a great alternative. Just make sure not to thaw them before cooking; they can break down too much.
Bourbon: Bourbon adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, try using apple cider or a splash of vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard, but brown sugar can add a richer flavor. If you need a sugar substitute, consider agave nectar or maple syrup, adjusting to taste.
Orange Zest and Juice: Fresh zest and juice brighten up the sauce. If you don’t have oranges, lemon juice can work, but it will change the flavor slightly. You could also use bottled lemon or orange juice in a pinch.
How Do I Ensure My Cranberries Don’t Turn Into Mush?
To avoid mushy cranberries, keep an eye on the cooking time. The key is to simmer them until they begin to burst, but not too long, or they’ll lose their shape. Follow these steps:
- Start with medium heat to dissolve sugar and water first.
- Add the cranberries and bring to a gentle boil, reducing heat as needed.
- Simmer only until most berries pop—about 8-10 minutes should be perfect.
Don’t forget that the sauce thickens as it cools, so don’t be tempted to overcook them!
Bourbon Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) bourbon whiskey
- 1 tsp orange zest, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 small sprig of fresh rosemary (for garnish and optional infusion)
- Pinch of salt
Time Needed:
Getting this delicious bourbon cranberry sauce ready takes about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. Allow some time for it to cool and thicken—this will take about 30 minutes, with a total time of around 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and fresh orange juice. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves. You want it to create a nice, sweet syrup base for your sauce.
2. Cook the Cranberries:
Add the fresh cranberries to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let the cranberries simmer for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook; you’ll know they’re ready when most of the cranberries have burst, and the sauce thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Add Flavor:
Now it’s time to stir in the bourbon and orange zest! Continue to let the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Give it another stir every now and then!
4. Infuse with Rosemary (Optional):
If you want a hint of herb flavor, you can add a small sprig of fresh rosemary during this simmering step. Let it steep in the sauce for that added touch. Just don’t forget to remove it before serving!
5. Cool the Sauce:
Once you’ve finished cooking, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. Keep in mind, it will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny at first.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your beautiful bourbon cranberry sauce to a serving bowl. For a lovely finishing touch, garnish it with some additional orange zest and a small sprig of rosemary if you used it before.
7. Enjoy:
This sauce is perfect alongside turkey, ham, or even spread on a delicious piece of toast! Any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week—if it lasts that long!
This bourbon cranberry sauce is not only vibrant and glossy but also has a fantastic balance of tart cranberries, sweet citrus, and warm whiskey notes. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just add them directly to the saucepan without thawing. They’ll break down nicely while cooking, and you won’t lose any flavor.
Is There a Non-Alcoholic Substitute for Bourbon?
Absolutely! You can replace bourbon with apple cider for a sweet, fruity taste or even a splash of vanilla extract mixed with a little extra water for depth of flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Store any leftover bourbon cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To serve again, just give it a good stir to remix the flavors!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! This sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. It actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together!