Jellied cranberry sauce is a classic holiday staple that adds a perfect sweet-tart touch to your Thanksgiving or Christmas table. Unlike the canned version, homemade jellied cranberry sauce tastes fresher, has no preservatives, and lets you control the sweetness. If you’ve ever wondered how to make jellied cranberry sauce from scratch, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through an easy, foolproof method to create that smooth, sliceable cranberry jelly everyone loves.
What Is Jellied Cranberry Sauce?
Jellied cranberry sauce is a smooth, gelatinous form of cranberry sauce made by cooking cranberries with sugar and water, then straining out the skins and seeds to create a clear, firm jelly. It’s different from whole berry cranberry sauce, which contains the intact berries and has a chunkier texture. The jellied version is perfect for slicing into neat rounds or shapes, making it a nostalgic and elegant addition to your holiday feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries (about one standard bag)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup water
– Optional: orange juice or zest for a citrus twist
– Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or other warm spices for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Jellied Cranberry Sauce
1. Cook the Cranberries
Start by combining the cranberries, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the mixture heats up. Once it reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the cranberries will pop open, releasing their juices and thickening the sauce. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce coats the back of a spoon and holds its shape when you run your finger through it.
2. Strain the Sauce
To get that classic smooth, jellied texture, pour the hot cranberry sauce through a fine mesh strainer or sieve into a bowl. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to press the sauce through, leaving behind the skins and seeds. This step is key to achieving the silky consistency that sets into a firm jelly.
3. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you want a firmer jelly or your sauce is a bit runny, you can thicken it by returning the strained juice to the saucepan. Mix 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry, then stir this into the cranberry juice. Heat the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and boils for about 30 seconds. This extra step helps the sauce set perfectly once chilled.
4. Chill and Set
Pour the strained (and optionally thickened) cranberry sauce into a heat-safe container or mold. Jelly jars or small loaf pans work great if you want to slice the sauce into neat rounds or shapes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set and firm to the touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy
When ready to serve, run a butter knife around the edges of the sauce to loosen it from the container. If it’s stubborn, dip the bottom of the container in warm water for a few seconds to help release the jelly. Slice into rounds or cubes and serve alongside your turkey, stuffing, or any holiday favorite.
Tips for Perfect Jellied Cranberry Sauce
– Use fresh or frozen cranberries: Both work well, but fresh cranberries have a slightly brighter flavor.
– Adjust sweetness: Taste the sauce before straining and add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
– Add citrus: A splash of orange juice or a bit of orange zest adds a lovely brightness and depth.
– Spice it up: For a warm holiday touch, try adding a pinch of cinnamon, cloves, or ginger while cooking.
– Make ahead: Jellied cranberry sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to two weeks, making it a great make-ahead side.
– Freeze for later: You can freeze the sauce for up to three months; just leave room for expansion in your container.
Why Make Jellied Cranberry Sauce at Home?
Making your own jellied cranberry sauce is surprisingly easy and tastes so much better than the canned stuff. You avoid preservatives and high fructose corn syrup, and you get to customize the flavor exactly how you like it. Plus, the smooth, elegant texture makes a beautiful presentation on your holiday table, impressing guests and delighting family alike.
Jellied cranberry sauce is a simple yet classic holiday treat that’s easy to make with just a few ingredients. With this easy method, you’ll have a delicious, homemade sauce ready to slice and serve in no time. Give it a try this season and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavor that only homemade can deliver!