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Bourbon Cranberry Sauce

A simple yet sophisticated cranberry sauce infused with bourbon and vanilla — the perfect blend of tart, sweet, and warm holiday flavor.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Condiment, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 105
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Combine cranberries and sugar in a medium saucepan.
  2. Add water and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  3. Simmer for about 10 minutes, until most of the cranberries have burst and the sauce begins to thicken.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the bourbon and vanilla extract.
  5. Cool slightly before serving. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

Notes

  • For a family-friendly version, skip the bourbon and replace it with orange juice or apple cider. The sauce will still be full of flavor and safe for little ones.
  • For a grown-up twist, add a splash of bourbon right before serving to preserve a touch of its aroma.
  • This sauce thickens as it cools — if you prefer a looser consistency, add 1–2 tablespoons of warm water before serving.