Healthy Holiday Cranberry Sauce

Egg-Free | Gluten-Free | Nut-Free | Grain-Free | Dairy-Free

This bright, delicious, whole-food cranberry sauce is the perfect healthier Thanksgiving side. It’s naturally sweetened, full of antioxidants, and takes less than 20 minutes to make. Unlike canned cranberry sauce—which is usually packed with added sugars—this version lets the natural flavors of cranberries, citrus, and warm spices shine.

Why This Cranberry Sauce Is a Healthy Upgrade

This isn’t just a holiday tradition—it’s a nutrient-packed recipe that supports digestion, immunity, and better blood sugar balance.

Functional Nutrition Benefits of Each Ingredient

Cranberries:

Rich in vitamin C, manganese, and polyphenols (including quercetin)
Support urinary tract health, gut health, and microbial balance
Help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation
Contain pectin, an insoluble fiber that supports digestion and satiety

Orange juice + zest:

Adds natural sweetness without excess sugar
High in vitamin C to support immunity and collagen production
Helps balance the bitterness of cranberries

Honey:

Provides a gentle sweetness with minerals and antioxidants
Natural sweetener with immune-boosting power
Helps create a glossy, balanced sauce

Cinnamon sticks:

Naturally anti-inflammatory
Helps support healthy blood sugar balance and heart health
Adds warmth and depth of flavor

Nutmeg:

Adds flavor while supporting digestion and circulation

Pinch of salt:

Enhances flavor and brings balance to the tart-sweet profile

Healthy Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Servings: 6–8 (about 2 cups)

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15–17 minutes

Total Time: 20–22 minutes

Ingredients

12 oz fresh cranberries
Zest and juice of 1 orange (about 1 Tbsp zest + ¼ cup juice)
¼ cup water
3–4 Tbsp honey
2 whole cinnamon sticks
Pinch of ground nutmeg
Pinch of fine sea salt

Instructions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add all ingredients.
Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle rapid simmer.
Reduce heat to low and continue to simmer for 15–17 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cranberries will soften and about half will burst, creating a thickened sauce.
Remove from heat and take out the cinnamon sticks.
- The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled.
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Sauce

Don't overcook: Stop simmering once about half the berries have burst to prevent bitterness.
Flavor balance: Cranberries are naturally tart—orange zest + honey help balance without too much sugar.
Make ahead: This sauce stores beautifully and is even better the next day.