MAPLE-SWEETENED CRANBERRY SAUCE
on Nov 27, 2025
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A seasonal staple on many holiday tables, this homemade refined-sugar-free cranberry sauce is tangy, sweet, and incredibly easy to make.
I know cranberry sauce can be controversial, but if you’re on team cranberry, then this Maple-Sweetened Cranberry Sauce is a must-have for your next holiday meal.
It takes less than 15 minutes to make and is way better than anything you can get from a can!
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Sweetened with maple syrup, this sauce is refined sugar-free, too! The addition of fresh orange juice, orange zest, and lemon juice really amplifies the berry’s tartness.
Can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and let me know what your family and friends think over on Instagram, @olivia.adriance. Enjoy!
Ingredients for Cranberry Sauce with Maple Syrup
Requiring just five ingredients, this naturally sweetened cranberry sauce is a great make-ahead side. Pop it in the fridge a few days ahead of the big meal. It’ll taste just as good once it sits!
- Fresh Cranberries: You’ll likely find these right in the produce section during the holiday season. You’ll need a full 12-ounce bag for this recipe.
- Maple Syrup: Adjust the amount to your liking!
- Oranges: Cranberries and oranges go hand-in-hand. Using fresh orange juice and zest really brightens up the flavor of the tart berries.
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Pin It- Lemon Juice: A bit of fresh lemon juice also helps the cranberries thicken as they simmer on the stovetop.
- Salt: Don’t be afraid to add some salt! Start with a bit and add more at the end for your taste preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Maple Syrup Cranberry Sauce
Go ahead and add all of the ingredients (cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice and zest, lemon juice, and salt) to a medium saucepan, stirring to combine.
Bring the mixture to a low boil. Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to thicken.
Remove from the heat and allow to cool. Note, it will continue to thicken while it cools.
Taste for seasoning, and add salt as needed. Serve with all your Thanksgiving recipes and enjoy!
More Thanksgiving Sides:
- Candied Pecan Crusted Sweet Potato Casserole
- Maple-Bacon Wrapped Carrots
- Sourdough Stuffing with Sausage (Gluten-Free)
- Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes
MAPLE-SWEETENED CRANBERRY SAUCE
Ingredients
- (1) 12-ounce bag fresh cranberries
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 2 large oranges, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a medium saucepan, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a low boil. Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to thicken.
- Remove from the heat and allow to cool. It will continue to thicken while it cools. Taste for seasoning, and add salt as needed.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
