Cranberry sauce is a classic holiday staple that adds a vibrant splash of color and a burst of tart sweetness to any festive meal. For those following a vegan lifestyle, finding a cranberry sauce recipe free from animal products can sometimes feel limiting, but it doesn’t have to be.
This vegan cranberry sauce recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for elevating your holiday table or any meal that needs a touch of fruity brightness. Made with fresh cranberries, natural sweeteners, and a hint of citrus, this sauce is both wholesome and full of flavor.
Whether you’re preparing a Thanksgiving feast or just craving a homemade condiment to brighten up your everyday dishes, this recipe is a winner. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires only a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Keep reading to discover why this cranberry sauce will quickly become your go-to vegan condiment, along with tips and variations to customize it to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cranberry sauce recipe is a perfect balance of tart and sweet, with a natural freshness that comes from using real fruit and citrus zest. Unlike canned versions loaded with preservatives and added sugars, this homemade sauce is vibrant, fresh, and customizable.
It’s vegan and allergen-friendly, containing no dairy, eggs, or animal-derived ingredients, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions. The simple ingredients list means you can feel good about what you’re serving your family and guests.
Additionally, its versatility makes it a fantastic addition not only to holiday dinners but also to sandwiches, salads, and grain bowls. If you enjoy exploring plant-based cooking, you might also appreciate our Soy Free Vegan Recipes for Delicious Plant-Based Meals or try pairing it with fresh breads like those in our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh cranberries | 12 oz (about 3 cups) |
| Maple syrup or agave nectar | 1/2 cup |
| Orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred) | 1/2 cup |
| Orange zest | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Pinch of salt | To taste |
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Zester or fine grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Juicer (optional, for fresh citrus)
- Bowl for cooling and storage container
Instructions
- Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water, removing any stems or damaged berries. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, orange juice, and maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the syrup fully.
- Add the cranberries to the boiling liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the cranberries simmer. You’ll hear them start to pop after a few minutes—this means they’re releasing their natural pectin, which helps the sauce thicken.
- Stir in the orange zest, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue simmering for about 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The sauce will thicken as the cranberries burst and the liquid reduces.
- Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, remove it from heat. It will thicken further as it cools, so keep this in mind.
- Transfer the cranberry sauce to a bowl or jar and allow it to cool completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Tips & Variations
For a zesty twist, add a splash of ginger juice or a pinch of ground cloves to the sauce during cooking.
If you prefer a chunkier sauce, mash some cranberries with the back of a spoon after cooking. For a smoother sauce, blend it briefly with an immersion blender or regular blender once cooled.
You can also substitute maple syrup with coconut sugar or brown sugar, adjusting sweetness to your taste. For a festive touch, stir in chopped pecans or walnuts just before serving.
Looking to create a full vegan holiday spread? Check out our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners for rich pasta dishes or our Slow Cooker Recipes Vegan Easy Meals for Busy Weeknight for convenient mains to complement your cranberry sauce.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 14 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Vitamin C | 8% DV |
This cranberry sauce is low in fat and provides a good source of vitamin C thanks to the fresh citrus and cranberries. The natural sugars come primarily from the fruit and maple syrup, making it a healthier alternative to many store-bought options.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside your favorite vegan roast or holiday main dish to add a refreshing contrast of flavors.
It also makes an excellent topping for vegan burgers, tofu patties, or grain bowls.
For a simple snack, spread it over toasted vegan bread or crackers. You can even swirl it into plant-based yogurt or oatmeal for a fruity breakfast boost.
Don’t forget to explore our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious as a wonderful dessert to round out your meal with complementary sweet notes.
Conclusion
This vegan cranberry sauce recipe is an easy, delicious way to bring fresh, tangy flavor to your meals all year round. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a versatile condiment that enhances everything from holiday dinners to everyday snacks.
Its natural sweetness balanced by citrus and a touch of spice makes it a crowd-pleaser even among non-vegans.
Making your own cranberry sauce means you control the ingredients and can customize the taste exactly to your liking. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to add a homemade touch that guests will appreciate.
Whether you’re hosting a festive feast or just want a healthy, flavorful spread, this recipe delivers every time.
For more plant-based inspiration, don’t miss our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals, which showcase vibrant, nutrient-packed dishes that pair wonderfully with your cranberry sauce. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Cranberry Sauce Recipe Vegan
Description: A simple and delicious vegan cranberry sauce perfect for holiday meals. Made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and natural sweeteners for a tangy and sweet flavor.
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Rinse cranberries and pick out any bad ones.
- Combine orange juice, water, and maple syrup in a saucepan.
- Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Add cranberries, orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 70 | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.1g | Carbs: 18g
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