This Pineapple Cranberry Orange Sauce is a bright and zesty addition to your meals. Made with sweet pineapple, tart cranberries, and fresh orange juice, it’s simply delicious!
It’s perfect for holiday feasts, or anytime you need a pop of color on your plate. I love serving it with turkey or chicken—it makes everything taste better and look pretty too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for this sauce as they have a vibrant tartness. If they aren’t in season, frozen cranberries work just as well. Avoid using dried cranberries since they won’t give the same texture or flavor.
Pineapple: I prefer using canned crushed pineapple for its convenience and the added juice. If you’re looking for a fresher option, you can use fresh pineapple, but chop it finely and add a bit of juice to keep the consistency.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice really enhances the flavor of this sauce. Although you could use store-bought, fresh juice brings out the best taste. Don’t forget to add some orange zest for an extra kick!
Sugar: Adjust the sugar based on your taste! If you prefer a healthier alternative, try using honey or maple syrup. For a sugar-free option, you could use stevia as well, but keep in mind it may alter the texture slightly.
How Do I Get the Perfect Consistency for My Sauce?
Getting the right consistency is key to a good sauce. Here’s how you can achieve it:
- Start with the right amount of liquid. The crushed pineapple and orange juice provide moisture.
- Keep cooking the sauce on low heat until the cranberries burst. This releases pectin, which helps thicken the sauce.
- After cooking, let it cool before serving. It will thicken further as it cools—so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny right after cooking.
Follow these steps, and you’ll end up with a delightful sauce that’s just the right thickness for any dish! Enjoy it during your holiday meals or any time you want a fruity kick.
How to Make Pineapple Cranberry Orange Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup canned crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprig and orange slices for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25 minutes. Keep in mind that the sauce will need some time to cool—about 30 minutes—before serving. So, plan around that if you want it ready for your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
First, rinse the cranberries under cool water. As you do this, check for any bad berries or stems and remove them. This will ensure a delicious and clean sauce!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix together the rinsed cranberries, the canned crushed pineapple (with all its juice), and the fresh orange juice. This combination is where the magic begins!
3. Add Sweetness and Flavor:
Add the granulated sugar, orange zest, and if you like, the ground cinnamon and ginger. Stir everything together so the sugar is evenly distributed and the flavors blend well.
4. Cook the Sauce:
Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Keep stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries start to burst and the sauce thickens—a process that should take about 10-15 minutes.
5. Cool the Sauce:
Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat. Let it cool in the saucepan for about 30 minutes. As it cools, it will continue to thicken further, creating that perfect sauce consistency!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once fully cooled, transfer the sauce to a serving bowl. For a beautiful presentation, you can garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary and a few orange slices. Serve it chilled or at room temperature next to your holiday turkey or ham, and enjoy the bright flavors!
With its delicious combination of tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and bright orange, this sauce is sure to impress at any gathering!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this sauce. Just make sure to use them directly from the freezer without thawing, and adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to burst.
How Should I Store Leftover Sauce?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave. You can add a splash of water or orange juice to loosen it up if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can definitely make this sauce in advance! It tastes even better after sitting for a day or two as the flavors meld together. Just prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What Are Some Good Pairings for This Sauce?
This Pineapple Cranberry Orange Sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or ham! It’s also a fantastic topping for oatmeal or yogurt, adding a sweet and tangy flavor to your breakfast or snacks.
