Cranberry sauce with maple syrup is not just for the holidays. Its versatility makes it a perfect companion for various dishes. This recipe is not only plant-based but also gluten-free and refined sugar-free and ready in about 15 minutes.
Thinking about a delicious breakfast? Why not swirl some into your morning oatmeal or top it over your vegan buttermilk pumpkin pancakes?
Maybe you're planning a lunch? This sauce is not only for your holiday dinner table. It pairs wonderfully with a hearty sandwich or a refreshing arugula and pear salad.
And let's not forget - just like Cranberry Orange Jam and Cranberry Ginger Chutney, it's an absolute hero on the vegan cheese or charcuterie board!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sauce is sweetened with natural alternatives.
- You can tailor this cranberry sauce to suit your taste. If you prefer it less sweet, you can adjust the sweetener. You can also experiment with additional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg if you want to add depth to the flavor.
- This cranberry sauce is straightforward and doesn't require much time or effort. You can whip it up in about 15-20 minutes.
- Whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other special gathering, this cranberry sauce adds a touch of color to your table.
Ingredients
Here are the easy-to-find ingredients you'll need to make this delicious recipe. See the recipe card for quantities.
- Can't get your hands on fresh cranberries? Frozen cranberries are an excellent alternative. They retain most of the nutrients and flavor of their fresh counterparts.
- Want to switch out the maple syrup? You can substitute it with agave nectar or coconut sugar, both of which are natural sweeteners.
How To Make Cranberry Sauce
Here is the process in pictures. For detailed instructions, see the recipe card.
Step 1: Saute shallots in olive oil.
Step 2: Add the remaining ingredients except the vanilla and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency and the cranberries have mostly broken down, remove from heat and remove the thyme sprig.
Step 4: Allow the cranberry sauce to cool for a bit before transferring it to a bowl. It can be served warm or refrigerated and served chilled, depending on your preference.
Top Tips
- Check the taste. Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, give it a taste. Feel free to add a little more maple syrup if it's too tart.
- Remove the sauce from the heat and allow it to cool. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Start with ¼ cup of maple syrup and taste. Add another ¼ cup if you want it sweeter.
Serving Suggestions
- Use wraps and fill them with sliced vegan roast, fresh greens, and a dollop of your healthy cranberry sauce.
- Layer your cranberry sauce with vegan yogurt and some granola.
- Stir a spoonful of cranberry sauce into your morning oatmeal.
- Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce on whole-grain crostini, and top with a small slice of vegan cheese.
- Use it as a topping for Homemade Vegan Banana Ice Cream.
- Create a vegan cheese and charcuterie board and include a small bowl of cranberry sauce as a condiment. Serve along with Vegan Walnut and Mushroom Pâté.
- Consider pairing it with plant-based proteins like tempeh or lupini seitan.
Storage
- Storing this healthy cranberry sauce with maple syrup is just as simple as making it.
- After allowing the sauce to cool to room temperature, transfer it into an airtight jar or container and store it in the refrigerator. This way, it will remain fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks. When you're ready to serve, take it from the fridge and let it reach room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Cranberry Sauce FAQS
You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this healthy cranberry sauce recipe. Both work well, so use what's most convenient for you. If using frozen cranberries, there's no need to thaw them before cooking.
You can store this healthy cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing.
This cranberry sauce is a great make-ahead dish for holidays. You can prepare it for a few days before storing it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. It actually tends to taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld.
More Delicious Vegan Recipes
Got a minute? I'd love for you to dive into the comments and rate this Cranberry Sauce with Maple Syrup. Your feedback is invaluable - did you love it? Did you make any fun twists? Let me know how my directions worked for you so I can keep improving my recipes. Follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for inspiration.
Recipe Card
Cranberry Sauce with Maple Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 shallot minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries one bag or ~ 3 cups
- 1 sprig of thyme
- ¼-1/2 cup maple syrup
- ½ cup water
- zest of ½ an orange ~1 teaspoon
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice juice from ½ an orange
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preparation: Rinse the cranberries and discard any soft or discolored ones. Grate the zest from the orange.
- Saute: Begin by sauteeing the shallots in olive oil over medium heat for two minutes.
- Cooking the Cranberries: Add the cranberries, sprig of thyme, maple syrup, orange juice, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the orange zest and a pinch of salt. If you like your cranberry sauce a bit tangier, you can also add a bit of a squeeze of lemon at this point.
- Simmer: Let the cranberries simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. As they cook, the cranberries will pop and release their pectin, which helps thicken the sauce. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Final Touch: Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency and the cranberries have mostly broken down, remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract if using.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cranberry sauce to cool for a bit before transferring it to a bowl. It can be served warm or refrigerated and served chilled, depending on your preference.
Rob says
So simple and was a great accompaniment to Thanksgiving.
Regi Pearce says
Thank you! Glad you liked it!