Refined Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce is sweet and tart. Needless to say, it is on every Thanksgiving Day table. Not to mention, it is a great Fall food to dress up a dessert. Consequently, it is the perfect accompaniment to chicken or turkey, as a matter of fact, it is perfect to add to any Thanksgiving table.
Needless to say, I have never really liked eating the same thing time and time again. My family can ask for something and I’ll say “We just had that.” They say four to 6 months ago doesn’t count. However, to me it does. Moreover, I love the variety and being in my kitchen creating new recipes. First, I have to decide on what protein we are going to have. Nevertheless, sometimes an idea hangs out for a couple of months or a couple of weeks in my brain before it actually comes to fruition. Honestly, I won’t lie it doesn’t always turn out. In conclusion, this recipe just came together and it works. Hence, my son said you should put this on your blog. In any case, I hope you like it as much as my family did.
At any rate, I made this cranberry sauce on Thanksgiving of the year I went refined sugar-free. Incredibly, I have been able to find monk fruit sweetener at a couple of local stores as well. Use in my Gluten-Free Cranberry Pumpkin Tier Cake. I have had to revamp the recipe as the monk fruit sweetener crystallized. Hence, I added real maple syrup. Check out my Monk Fruit Sweeter Information blog post.
The Perfect Refined Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce Recipe for Thanksgiving
Are you ready to elevate your Thanksgiving feast with a burst of flavor? Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the perfect refined sugar-free cranberry sauce recipe. This mouthwatering sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart, making it a must-have on every Thanksgiving Day table. Whether you’re a fan of turkey, chicken, or even dessert, this cranberry sauce is the ultimate companion. Imagine a sauce made with fresh or frozen cranberries, monk fruit sweetener, water, maple syrup, and a hint of vanilla – it’s a delicious blend that can be customized to your desired consistency. So, let’s dive into this recipe and discover how to impress your guests with a cranberry sauce that’s both healthy and full of flavor.
Cranberries:
First, we have the star of the show – fresh or frozen cranberries. These vibrant, ruby-red gems are the backbone of the sauce, adding a tart and tangy bite that is quintessentially Thanksgiving.
Next, we have monk fruit sweetener. This natural, zero-calorie sweetener is a perfect alternative to refined sugar, allowing you to indulge in the sweetness without any guilt. It brings a delicate sweetness to the cranberry sauce, without overpowering the natural tartness of the cranberries.
To bring everything together, we need water. This humble ingredient acts as the liquid base, allowing the cranberries to soften and release their natural juices. It helps create a luscious sauce that coats your taste buds with every spoonful.
But we’re not done yet – we add a touch of maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness and complexity. The richness of the maple syrup adds depth to the sauce, enhancing the natural flavors of the cranberries.
And finally, a hint of vanilla. This subtle addition elevates the cranberry sauce, imparting a warm and comforting aroma that will fill your kitchen as you cook. It adds a touch of sophistication, making this sauce truly special.
Customization Tips
First and foremost, let’s talk about sweetness. While this recipe uses natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey, you can certainly adjust the amount to your preference. If you have a sweet tooth, feel free to increase the amount slightly. On the other hand, if you prefer a tangier sauce, reducing the sweetener a bit will do the trick. Remember, the beauty of homemade cranberry sauce lies in its ability to be tailored to your personal taste.
If you’re looking to add some depth and complexity to your sauce, consider incorporating spices. While this recipe suggests cinnamon, you can experiment with other warm spices like cloves, nutmeg, or even a pinch of cardamom. These aromatic additions can give your cranberry sauce a delightful twist and create a flavor profile that truly stands out.
Another way to customize your cranberry sauce is by adding a touch of citrus. The recipe already includes orange zest, but you can also squeeze in some fresh orange juice for an extra punch of tanginess. Alternatively, lemon or lime zest can bring a zesty brightness to the sauce. Don’t be afraid to play with different citrus fruits to find the perfect balance that complements your holiday feast.
Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can introduce some texture to the sauce by adding chopped nuts or dried fruits. The crunch of toasted walnuts or the chewiness of dried cranberries can add a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the sauce. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or fruits to create a cranberry sauce with a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Let’s explore some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your Thanksgiving feast even further.
When it comes to serving your refined sugar-free cranberry sauce, there are numerous ways to make it a standout addition to your Thanksgiving table. Here are a few delicious serving suggestions to consider:
1. Classic Pairings: Serve your cranberry sauce alongside traditional Thanksgiving favorites like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. The tangy and slightly sweet flavor of the sauce complements the savory dishes, adding a burst of freshness to each bite.
2. Cheese Platter Enhancer: Elevate your cheese platter by incorporating a dollop of cranberry sauce. The tartness of the cranberries pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese. Spread some sauce on a cracker, top it with a slice of cheese, and let your guests savor the delightful combination.
3. Glaze or Marinade: Take your main dish to the next level by using your cranberry sauce as a glaze or marinade. Brush it over your roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or ham before placing it in the oven. The sauce caramelizes beautifully, adding a luscious glaze and a burst of flavor to your meat.
4. Breakfast Delight: Start your Thanksgiving morning with a sweet and tangy treat by spreading cranberry sauce on a warm buttered scone or toast. The vibrant cranberry flavor adds a burst of freshness and color to your breakfast, making it a memorable way to kick off your holiday festivities.
5. Festive Dessert: Get creative and use your cranberry sauce to create a show-stopping dessert. Layer it between cake or cookies for a delicious twist on a classic trifle. Alternatively, serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for a simple yet elegant dessert option.
Refined Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce:
Remember, the versatility of your refined sugar-free cranberry sauce allows you to experiment with different serving suggestions. Feel free to unleash your creativity and adapt these ideas to suit your taste preferences and the overall theme of your Thanksgiving gathering. With these serving suggestions, your cranberry sauce will become a true standout on your holiday table. Next, we’ll explore the wonderful world of cranberry sauce variations that will surely impress your guests.,
In conclusion, this refined sugar-free cranberry sauce recipe is a game-changer for your Thanksgiving spread. By swapping out refined sugar for natural sweeteners and combining fresh or frozen cranberries with a dash of vanilla, this sauce brings a burst of flavor and healthiness to your table. Whether you’re serving it alongside your turkey or using it as a delectable topping for desserts, this cranberry sauce is versatile and impressive. So why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your holiday meal with this mouthwatering creation?
Give it a try this Thanksgiving and witness how a simple sauce can turn your feast into a memorable experience. As you savor each bite, you’ll not only satisfy your taste buds but also nourish your body with a dish that balances sweetness and tartness flawlessly. So embrace the opportunity to impress your guests with this incredible cranberry sauce.
Refined Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce Recipe Notes:
Subsequently, this recipe can be made to be somewhat chunky or it can be placed over a fine sieve mesh and strain through using a spatula. Indeed fresh or frozen berries can be used.
Refined Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/8 cup powdered monk fruit sweetener
- 1 1/3 cups of water
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
Directions:
First, place frozen cranberries into a pot with the sugar, water, and vanilla.
Second, bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes. Next, after 5-minute mash 1/2, of the berries using a potato masher or the back of a spoon. Finally, cook for 5 more minutes or until desired consistency. Or run through a fine sieve mesh and strain through with a spatula. Lastly, remove from heat and allow to cool. In conclusion, place into a sterilized glass jar with a lid and store in the fridge for up to one month. Makes approximately 3/4 cup. 
Refined Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/8 cup monk fruit sweetener
- 1 1/3 cup of water
- 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- First, place frozen cranberries into a pot with the sweeteners, water, and vanilla.1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, 1/8 cup monk fruit sweetener, 1 1/3 cup of water, 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1/4 cup maple syrup
- Second, bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes.
- Next, after 5 minutes mash 1/2 the berries using a potato masher or the back of a spoon.
- Finally, cook 5 more minutes or until desired consistency.
- Lastly, remove from heat allow to cool.
- Place into a sterilized glass jar with a lid and store in the fridge for up to one month.
- Or use after it has cooled in my Gluten-Free Cranberry Pumpkin Tier Cake.
- Makes approximately 3/4 cup. One tablespoon per serving.
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Servings 16.0 | |
| Amount Per Serving | |
| calories 12 | |
| % Daily Value * | |
| Total Fat 0 g | 0 % |
| Saturated Fat 0 g | 0 % |
| Monounsaturated Fat 0 g | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g | |
| Trans Fat 0 g | |
| Cholesterol 0 mg | 0 % |
| Sodium 1 mg | 0 % |
| Potassium 6 mg | 0 % |
| Total Carbohydrate 3 g | 1 % |
| Dietary Fiber 0 g | 2 % |
| Sugars 3 g | |
| Protein 0 g | 0 % |
| Vitamin A | 0 % |
| Vitamin C | 1 % |
| Calcium | 0 % |
| Iron | 0 % |
| * The Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet, so your values may change depending on your calorie needs. The values here may not be 100% accurate because the recipes have not been professionally evaluated nor have they been evaluated by the U.S. FDA. | |
Nutrition
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