This Pineapple Cranberry Orange Sauce is a bright and fruity delight! It combines tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and zesty orange, making it a perfect condiment for your meals.
I love how it adds a splash of color and flavor to my table! It’s super easy to whip up, and honestly, who doesn’t love a good sauce that can brighten any dish? 🍍🍊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for this recipe, but frozen cranberries work just as well. If cranberries aren’t available, you can use dried cranberries, but the texture and flavor will change a bit.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks add a juicy sweetness. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple (in juice, not syrup) can work too. Just drain it well before adding.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice gives a bright flavor. If you’re short on oranges, store-bought juice is acceptable, but be cautious of added sugars. Alternatively, you can use lemon juice for a twist.
Sugar: I’ve found that half a cup is usually enough, but feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference. Honey or maple syrup can also substitute for granulated sugar.
How Can I Make My Sauce Perfectly Thick?
Getting the right thickness for the sauce is key! As the cranberries cook, they’ll burst and release their natural pectin, which helps to thicken it up. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with medium-high heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce to medium-low and let it simmer without a lid. This evaporation helps thicken the sauce.
- Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, and give the sauce a taste to see if it’s thickened enough.
- Remember, the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a little runny at first.
Trust me, this tasty sauce will elevate your meals and is perfect for sharing with loved ones!
How to Make Pineapple Cranberry Orange Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fruits and Juices:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (about 1 small pineapple)
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 2 medium oranges)
Other Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful sauce takes about 5 minutes to prepare and an additional 15 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying this sweet and tangy treat in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, pineapple chunks, orange juice, and sugar. Give everything a gentle stir to mix them well. This mixture is bound to be delicious!
2. Bring to a Boil:
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally, and once the mixture starts boiling, you’ll know you’re on the right path!
3. Simmer and Add Flavor:
After reaching a good boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. Now it’s time to add the orange zest, salt, and cinnamon if you’re using it. Let the sauce simmer gently. This will make the flavors meld beautifully!
4. Cook Until Thickened:
Allow the sauce to cook uncovered for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally, and you’ll see the cranberries burst open, releasing their juices. The sauce will thicken nicely, and the pineapple will soften into the mixture.
5. Cool It Down:
Once cooked, take the saucepan off the heat. Let the sauce cool to room temperature. Keep in mind that it will thicken further as it cools!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the sauce into a serving bowl. If you’d like, garnish it with a few fresh chunks of pineapple for an extra touch. This lovely sauce can be served chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with poultry, pork, or as a festive side for your holiday meals!
Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Canned Cranberries or Pineapple for This Recipe?
While fresh or frozen cranberries and pineapple are recommended for the best flavor and texture, canned cranberries and pineapple can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain any syrup from the pineapple, and you may want to reduce the sugar since canned products can be sweeter.
How Do I Store Leftover Sauce?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Before serving again, just stir it well and consider gently reheating it on the stove if you prefer it warm.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste. Start with half a cup as suggested, taste the sauce as it cooks, and add more sugar if you’d like it sweeter. You could also substitute with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! This sauce actually tastes even better the day after it’s made as the flavors have time to meld. Make it up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it!
