There’s something magical about the sweet-tart pop of cranberries mixed with the deep warmth of bourbon and honey. This Honey Bourbon Cranberry Sauce brings that perfect balance of cozy and elegant — just the right touch to elevate your holiday table.
Forget the canned stuff — this homemade cranberry sauce is a game-changer! The combination of fresh cranberries, smooth honey, and a splash of bourbon creates a rich, glossy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for a holiday feast.
Whether you’re spreading it on turkey, spooning it over cheesecake, or swirling it into oatmeal the next morning, this sauce adds instant festive flair.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish / Condiment |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 8 servings |
| Calories | ~90 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries (about 3 cups)
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup bourbon
- ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1 tsp orange zest
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ⅛ tsp salt
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Combine ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, honey, brown sugar, bourbon, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and salt. - Bring to a boil:
Place over medium-high heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. - Simmer and thicken:
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until most cranberries have burst and the sauce thickens. - Cool and set:
Remove from heat. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. - Chill and serve:
Transfer to a serving dish or jar. Let it cool completely before refrigerating — serve chilled or at room temperature.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Don’t skip the simmer: Let the sauce cook long enough to reduce slightly — this helps the flavors deepen and the texture turn luscious.
- No bourbon? Substitute apple cider or orange juice for an alcohol-free version.
- Make ahead: This sauce stores beautifully! Keep it refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 7 days.
- Texture control: For a smoother finish, blend it lightly after cooling.
Recipe Variations
- Maple Bourbon Cranberry Sauce: Swap honey for pure maple syrup for a deeper, woodsy sweetness.
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a star anise pod while simmering for extra warmth.
- Cranberry-Apple Sauce: Add 1 diced apple to the mix for a chunkier, fruit-forward version.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside roast turkey, baked brie.
- Spread over buttermilk biscuits or leftover turkey sandwiches.
- Drizzle over cheesecake or ice cream for a festive dessert twist.
Conclusion
This Honey Bourbon Cranberry Sauce is the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and cozy — a must-have on your holiday table. Every spoonful feels like a warm embrace of seasonal comfort. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy dinner at home, this sauce will steal the show (and your heart).
So grab your saucepan and a splash of bourbon — your new favorite holiday condiment is waiting to be made!