Elevate your meals with a bold twist—Cranberry Bourbon Sauce blends the tartness of fresh cranberries with the warm, smoky depth of bourbon.
Perfect for holidays or anytimes you want to impress. This sauce adds a rich, tangy kick to turkey, pork, or even roasted veggies.
A hint of sweetness, a splash of spice, and the unmistakable zing of bourbon make this recipe a standout. It’s simple to make and a true fusion of comfort and flair.
How To Make Cranberry Bourbon Sauce?
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Yield: About 2 cups (8 servings)
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heat‑proof spatula
- Citrus zester
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Potato masher (optional, for extra texture)
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- ⅓ cup brown sugar (plus more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ cup bourbon (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Combine the Base
Combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir well so the sugar begins dissolving.
2. Spice It Up
Add red pepper flakes, cinnamon, and cumin. Stir until spices are evenly distributed—this builds warm, cozy flavor layers.
3. Simmer to Thicken
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens naturally.
4. Add Bourbon & Salt
Stir in bourbon and a pinch of salt. Continue simmering for 5–7 minutes to meld flavors and cook off alcohol.
5. Taste & Adjust
Taste the sauce and tweak the sweetness or bourbon level as needed.
6. Cool & Serve
Remove from heat. Let the sauce cool slightly and serve, flavors deepen over time.
Nutrition Facts Of Cranberry Bourbon Sauce
- Calories: 58 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
Serving Suggestions
◈ With Roasted Meats: Spoon over turkey, chicken, or pork for a sweet, tangy kick.
◈ As a Glaze: Brush onto grilled salmon or ham during the last few minutes of cooking.
◈ On Cheese Boards: Serve alongside brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar with crackers.
◈ With Sandwiches: Spread on leftover turkey or ham sandwiches for extra flavor.
◈ Over Desserts: Drizzle on vanilla ice cream or cheesecake for a bold twist.
Tips and Variations
★ Adjust Sweetness: Add more sugar or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
★ Use Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: Both work well—no need to thaw frozen ones.
★ Alcohol-Free Option: Substitute bourbon with apple juice or orange juice.
✔ For a smoother consistency, transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until you reach your desired texture.
✔ Add cloves or nutmeg if you like a spiced finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the alcohol cooked out?
Yes, most of the alcohol evaporates during cooking.
Can I make it without bourbon?
Yes, substitute with apple juice or orange juice.
How long does it take to make?
About 20–30 minutes.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 1–2 weeks in an airtight container.
Can it be frozen?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Sure, it’s great when made a few days in advance.
Conclusion
Cranberry Bourbon Sauce blends tart berries with the rich warmth of bourbon, creating a bold, versatile finish for meats or holiday dishes.
Its sweet-tangy depth elevates every bite, making it a standout addition to festive meals or everyday indulgence. A spirited twist on a classic favorite.
Cranberry Bourbon Sauce
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heat‑proof spatula
- Citrus zester
- Measuring cups/spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- ⅓ cup brown sugar plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ cup bourbon adjust to taste
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir well so the sugar begins dissolving.
- Add red pepper flakes, cinnamon, and cumin. Stir until spices are evenly distributed—this builds warm, cozy flavor layers.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens naturally.
- Stir in bourbon and a pinch of salt. Continue simmering for 5–7 minutes to meld flavors and cook off alcohol.
- Taste the sauce and tweak the sweetness or bourbon level as needed.
- Remove from heat. Let the sauce cool slightly and serve, flavors deepen over time.
Notes
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.