Brighten your holiday table with a twist on tradition—Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce.
This vibrant recipe blends tart cranberries with zesty orange and a splash of almond-sweet Amaretto, creating a bold, festive flavor.
It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and slightly boozy, elevating a classic side dish into something special.
Whether served with turkey, ham, or spooned over dessert, this sauce brings a touch of elegance and warmth to every bite. A simple recipe with unforgettable results.
How To Make Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce?
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Yield: Approximately 2 cups (serves 6–8)
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Zester or fine grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowl
Ingredients
- 12 oz (1 bag) fresh or frozen cranberries
- ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- ⅓ cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ cup Amaretto liqueur
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Combine Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, cinnamon, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
2. Simmer to Perfection
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
3. Add the Amaretto Twist
Remove from the heat and stir in the Amaretto liqueur. Let cool to room temperature; the sauce will continue to thicken.
4. Serve & Savor
Chill before serving for the best flavor. Perfect with roasted meats or as a festive holiday spread.
Nutrition Facts Of Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce
- Calories: 212
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 44g
- Sodium: 3mg
Serving Suggestions
◈ Holiday Turkey: Spoon over roasted turkey for a sweet, tangy twist.
◈ Pork or Ham: Pairs beautifully with glazed ham or pork tenderloin.
◈ Cheese Boards: Serve alongside brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar.
◈ Sandwich Spread: Use as a flavorful layer in leftover turkey sandwiches.
◈ Dessert Topping: Drizzle over cheesecake or vanilla ice cream.
Tips & Variations
★ Make Ahead: Prepare up to 5 days in advance; store in the fridge.
★ Texture Control: Mash for smoother sauce or leave berries whole for a chunkier style.
★ Balance Sweetness: Add a bit of honey or maple syrup if it’s too tart.
★ Booze-Free: If you want, replace amaretto with orange juice or almond extract.
★ Citrus Twist: Use blood oranges or tangerines for a different citrus note.
★ Nutty Finish: Top with toasted almonds before serving.
✤ For a smoother consistency, transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until you reach your desired texture.
✤ You can garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce?
A sweet-tart cranberry sauce made with orange juice and Amaretto liqueur.
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes, substitute Amaretto with almond extract (use only a small amount).
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 10-14 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze it?
Sure, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
What kind of cranberries should I use?
Fresh or frozen whole cranberries work best.
Is it very sweet?
It’s sweet but balanced by tart cranberries and citrus.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Sure, it’s even better after sitting for a day.
Conclusion
Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce brings a vibrant twist to a classic favorite, blending tart cranberries with citrusy zest and a hint of almond warmth.
This bold, elegant finish elevates any holiday table, adding depth and a touch of sophistication to every bite. A simple recipe with unforgettable flavor.
Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Zester or fine grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowl
Ingredients
- 12 oz 1 bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- ⅓ cup brown sugar adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ cup Amaretto liqueur
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, cinnamon, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the Amaretto liqueur. Let cool to room temperature; the sauce will continue to thicken.
- Chill before serving for the best flavor. Perfect with roasted meats or as a festive holiday spread.
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.