The holiday season is upon us, and that means it’s time to gather with loved ones and indulge in delicious meals. No holiday table is complete without cranberry sauce, and this homemade canned version is sure to be a standout. Bursting with the flavors of fresh cranberries, sweet pineapple, zesty orange zest, and warm spices, this recipe takes cranberry sauce to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or a festive Christmas feast, this homemade canned cranberry sauce will impress your guests and elevate your holiday spread. Follow along to learn how to make this irresistible dish!
Introduction:
Cranberry sauce is a staple of holiday meals, adding a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness to savory dishes. While store-bought cranberry sauce is convenient, there’s something special about making it from scratch. This recipe combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of pineapple, the brightness of orange zest, and the warmth of cinnamon, resulting in a perfectly balanced and flavorful cranberry sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, by canning the sauce, you can enjoy it long after the holidays are over, making it a versatile and practical addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
For the Homemade Canned Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 can (14 ounces) whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 can (14 ounces) jellied cranberry sauce
- 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup orange juice
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by gathering all the ingredients listed above. Drain the crushed pineapple and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole berry cranberry sauce, jellied cranberry sauce, drained crushed pineapple, orange zest, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and orange juice. Stir until well combined.
- Cook the Mixture:
- Transfer the cranberry sauce mixture to a large saucepan or pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the cranberry sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Sterilize the Canning Jars:
- While the cranberry sauce is simmering, prepare your canning jars and lids by sterilizing them in boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove them from the water and set them aside to dry.
- Fill the Jars:
- Carefully ladle the hot cranberry sauce into the sterilized canning jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top of each jar.
- Seal the Jars:
- Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth to remove any spills or residue. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight.
- Process the Jars:
- Process the filled jars in a boiling water canner for 15 minutes, ensuring that the jars are completely submerged in the boiling water. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool completely.
- Check the Seals:
- Once the jars have cooled, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid does not move or make a popping sound, the jar is sealed properly. If any jars did not seal, refrigerate them and use the cranberry sauce within a few weeks.
- Store and Enjoy:
- Store the sealed jars of cranberry sauce in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Once opened, refrigerate any leftover cranberry sauce and use it within a week.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Fresh Cranberries: If you prefer to use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce, you can substitute 12 ounces of fresh cranberries for the canned cranberry sauce. Simply cook the fresh cranberries with the other ingredients until they burst and the mixture thickens.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the cranberry sauce to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add more brown sugar or maple syrup. For a tart sauce, reduce the amount of sugar or omit it altogether.
- Texture Variations: If you prefer a smoother cranberry sauce, you can puree the mixture in a blender or food processor before canning it. For a chunkier sauce, simply leave it as is.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce? A: Yes, you can use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce. Simply substitute 12 ounces of fresh cranberries for the canned cranberry sauce and cook them with the other ingredients until they burst and the mixture thickens.
Q: How long does homemade canned cranberry sauce last? A: When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, homemade canned cranberry sauce can last for up to one year. Once opened, refrigerate any leftover cranberry sauce and use it within a week.
Q: Can I skip the canning step and refrigerate the cranberry sauce instead? A: While canning extends the shelf life of the cranberry sauce, you can skip the canning step if you prefer. Simply refrigerate the cranberry sauce in an airtight container and use it within a few weeks.
Q: Can I make this cranberry sauce ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the cranberry sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. It can also be canned ahead of time and stored for up to one year.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications to make a keto-friendly version of this cranberry sauce:
- Low-Carb Sweeteners: Substitute the brown sugar and maple syrup with keto-friendly sweeteners such as erythritol or stevia.
- Fresh Cranberries: Use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce, as they contain fewer carbs and are suitable for a low-carb diet.
In conclusion, this homemade canned cranberry sauce is a delightful addition to any holiday table. With its vibrant flavors and versatile uses, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re serving it alongside roast turkey, glazed ham, or roasted vegetables, this cranberry sauce adds a festive touch to any meal. Plus, with its easy canning process, you can enjoy the taste of the holidays all year round. Give this recipe a try and impress your guests with the best homemade canned cranberry sauce they’ve ever tasted!
