This yummy blueberry cranberry sauce is a burst of sweet and tangy flavor! It’s perfect for topping on pancakes or as a side with your turkey dinner. Just mix fresh berries and let them simmer.
Honestly, it makes everything taste special! I like to make a big batch and use it all week. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—no skills required! 🍇❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries bring a sour punch, but frozen ones work just as well! If you’re in a pinch, you can use dried cranberries, but they will alter the texture and flavor slightly.
Blueberries: I love fresh blueberries for their juicy sweetness. If fresh isn’t available, frozen blueberries are also a fantastic choice and won’t affect the sauce too much.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is ideal, but if you prefer less processed options, honey or maple syrup can be used instead! Just adjust to taste, as they are sweeter.
Orange Juice & Zest: Freshly squeezed orange juice pops with flavor! Store-bought is fine, but you’ll lose some freshness. Lemon juice can substitute if you’re out of oranges; it will add a different tang.
Rosemary: While this adds a lovely herbaceous note, it’s optional. Thyme or even mint could work too, or you can leave it out altogether!
How Do I Ensure My Sauce Thickens Just Right?
Thickening the sauce is super simple! The key is to let it simmer until the cranberries burst and release their natural pectin, which helps thicken sauces.
- Keep it on medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook until cranberries pop, about 5 minutes initially. Then add other ingredients and simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
- Remember, the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a little runny at first!
With just a bit of patience, you’ll have a deliciously thick sauce that’s perfect for any occasion!
Blueberry Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful blueberry cranberry sauce takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes to simmer on the stove. Just a short time to create a vibrant, flavorful addition to your meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Berries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries and blueberries under cold running water. Drain them well and set aside. This step ensures your sauce is fresh and clean!
2. Create the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, and orange juice. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves, and you start to see it gently simmer. This makes a sweet base for your sauce.
3. Cook the Cranberries:
Add the cranberries to the saucepan. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the cranberries starting to pop – that’s a good sign! It means they are releasing their juices.
4. Add the Blueberries:
Next, toss in the blueberries, orange zest, and ground cinnamon if you’re using it. Add a pinch of salt too! Keep simmering gently for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. By the end, the sauce should thicken nicely, and the berries should be soft but not completely mushy.
5. Cool and Transfer:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool. It will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t fret if it seems a little runny at this point!
6. Serve with Style:
Once cooled, transfer the sauce to a serving bowl. For a lovely touch, garnish with some fresh blueberries and a sprig of rosemary on top. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature.
7. Enjoy!
Your blueberry cranberry sauce is now ready to delight your guests or enhance your holiday meals! Use it as a side dish or a topping for desserts—it’s sure to be a hit!
Enjoy the vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor that makes this blueberry cranberry sauce a perfect seasonal treat!
Can I Use Frozen Berries in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Both fresh and frozen cranberries and blueberries work well in this sauce. If using frozen berries, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; just add them directly to the saucepan!
How Long Will This Sauce Last in the Fridge?
Your blueberry cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just give it a good stir before serving as it may thicken slightly when chilled!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, this sauce is a great make-ahead option! You can prepare it a few days in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. It even tastes better as the flavors continue to meld!
Is It Possible to Reduce the Sugar in This Recipe?
Definitely! You can lower the sugar to taste or use a sugar substitute like honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that this may alter the final flavor slightly, but it’s a great way to reduce sweetness.
