Cranberry Sauce With Grand Marnier Recipe for Holidays

There’s something truly magical about cranberry sauce during the holiday season. Its vibrant red color and tart-sweet flavor bring a festive touch to any meal, especially when paired with roasted turkey or ham.

But if you’re looking to elevate this classic condiment, adding a splash of Grand Marnier—a luscious orange-flavored liqueur—creates a sophisticated twist that’s sure to impress your guests. This cranberry sauce with Grand Marnier recipe beautifully balances the natural tartness of cranberries with the warm, citrus notes of the liqueur, resulting in a sauce that’s rich, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.

Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner or a grand holiday feast, this recipe is simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time, saving you precious kitchen moments on the big day. Plus, the combination of fresh ingredients and the aromatic hint of orange makes it a versatile condiment that pairs wonderfully with more than just turkey.

Let’s dive into why this sauce will become your new holiday staple!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cranberry sauce with Grand Marnier is a delightful upgrade from the traditional version. Here’s why it stands out:

• Bright, balanced flavor: The tart cranberries and sweet orange liqueur create a perfect harmony that excites your palate.
• Easy to prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s approachable even for beginner cooks.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it a day or two in advance to let flavors meld beautifully, freeing your schedule on the day of serving.
• Elegant presentation: The glossy, ruby-red sauce adds a festive splash of color to your holiday table.
• Versatility: Besides turkey, it complements pork, chicken, cheese boards, and even desserts.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup Grand Marnier (orange liqueur)
• 1 tsp orange zest (from 1 medium orange)
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 1 tbsp fresh orange juice for extra citrus brightness

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Zester or fine grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Heatproof bowl or jar for cooling and storage

Instructions

1. Rinse and prepare the cranberries: Wash the cranberries under cold water and pick out any soft or damaged ones.
2. Combine sugar and water: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Add cranberries and spices: Stir in the fresh cranberries, orange zest, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the cranberries simmer for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll hear them start to pop as they cook and the sauce thickens.
5. Incorporate Grand Marnier: Once the cranberries have softened and the sauce has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the Grand Marnier and, if using, the fresh orange juice.
6. Cool and store: Let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a heatproof bowl or jar. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve: Bring the sauce to room temperature before serving, giving it a good stir to restore its glossy texture.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For a chunkier sauce, reduce simmering time slightly so some cranberries remain whole. For a smoother sauce, mash some of the berries with the back of a spoon during cooking.

Variation: Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for a spiced holiday twist. You can also experiment by substituting Grand Marnier with other orange liqueurs like Cointreau or triple sec.

Make it vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, but be sure to check your Grand Marnier’s ingredients if serving strict vegans.

Storage: This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 1 week. Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

* DV = Daily Value based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Serving Suggestions

This cranberry sauce is a versatile addition to many dishes. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:

• Serve alongside roast turkey, chicken, or pork for a classic holiday pairing.
• Use as a spread on sandwiches or wraps to add a burst of sweet-tart flavor.
• Pair with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese on a charcuterie board.
• Top vanilla ice cream or cheesecake with a spoonful for a festive dessert twist.
• Swirl into yogurt or oatmeal for a flavorful breakfast upgrade.

Conclusion

This cranberry sauce with Grand Marnier recipe is a delicious and elegant twist on a holiday favorite. Its combination of fresh cranberries, zesty orange, warming spices, and a splash of citrus liqueur creates a beautifully balanced sauce that enhances any festive meal.

Not only is it simple to prepare, but it can also be made in advance, giving you more time to focus on the main courses and enjoy your guests.

The vibrant color and rich flavor profile will surely become a staple in your holiday repertoire, impressing family and friends alike. If you love this recipe, you might want to explore other easy and delicious dishes like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or warm your soul with comforting flavors in the Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.

For a unique twist on vegan and gluten-free treats, check out the Amazing Gluten Free Low Calorie Vegan Recipe Video Funny Moments.

Enjoy this festive sauce and happy cooking!

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