How to Make Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce Copycat in Just 15 Minutes-Copycat

There’s something magical about cranberry sauce that transforms a meal. The tangy-sweet Ocean Spray cranberry sauce recipe (Copycat) is a quintessential part of holiday traditions, bringing a burst of flavor that perfectly complements turkey, stuffing, and all the rich dishes we look forward to every year. Whether you’re recreating memories from childhood Thanksgivings or simply looking for an easy way to add a touch of tartness to your table, this recipe delivers every time.

Ocean Spray’s cranberry sauce recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. With only a handful of ingredients—fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and water—it’s astonishing how quickly this dish comes together. The result is a vibrant, jewel-toned sauce that balances tart cranberries with just the right amount of sweetness. And the best part? It’s versatile enough to be customized with oranges, spices, or even a splash of port wine.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the classic Ocean Spray recipe or a first-timer eager to impress, this easy-to-make dish is bound to become a staple on your holiday menu. Stick with the traditional preparation or explore creative variations to make it your own!

Why This Recipe Works

When you think of cranberry sauce, Ocean Spray often comes to mind as the gold standard. Here’s why their simple recipe continues to reign supreme:

Fresh Ingredients, Bold Flavors

This recipe relies on whole, fresh cranberries, which burst with natural tartness. When simmered with sugar and water, they create a velvety sauce that’s both tangy and sweet. The natural pectin in cranberries thickens the sauce as it cools, eliminating the need for extra thickeners.

Effortless to Make

With only three main ingredients and one pot, this cranberry sauce comes together in under 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy holiday schedules and beginner cooks alike.

Customizable to Your Taste

This recipe is a blank canvas for creativity. Love citrus? Add orange juice and zest. Want a spiced version? A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves can elevate the flavor. Feeling adventurous? Stir in chopped nuts or a splash of Grand Marnier.

Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals

Cranberry sauce only gets better as it sits, making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of the holiday rush. Store it in the fridge for up to a week, and you’re ready to go when the big day arrives.

Versatile Beyond the Holidays

While it’s a must-have for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners, this sauce is also a great companion for everyday dishes. Use it as a glaze for meats, a topping for desserts, or even a mix-in for cocktails.

Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

Its vibrant color and sweet-tart balance make it appealing to a wide range of palates. Even picky eaters often find themselves spooning a little extra onto their plates.

With these qualities, it’s no wonder this cranberry sauce recipe is beloved by generations. But let’s not stop at tradition—this is your chance to put your own spin on a classic!

Ingredients Breakdown

Main Ingredients:

1. Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – 12 oz (1 bag)
   Ocean Spray cranberries are ideal, but any fresh or frozen cranberries will work. The key is their vibrant color and tart flavor.
2. Granulated Sugar – 1 cup
   Provides sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries. Adjust the quantity if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
3. Water – 1 cup
   Essential for dissolving the sugar and creating the perfect syrupy base.

Optional Additions for Variations:

• Orange Juice (½ cup): Substitute part of the water with orange juice for a citrusy twist.
• Orange Zest (1 teaspoon): Adds brightness and aroma.
• Cinnamon Stick (1 stick): For a warm, spiced flavor.
• Port Wine (2 tablespoons): A rich, sophisticated addition.
• Chopped Pecans (¼ cup): Adds a nutty crunch for texture lovers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients (2 minutes)

Rinse the cranberries under cold water and pick out any shriveled or damaged ones. Measure your sugar and water, and set out any optional ingredients.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients (3 minutes)

In a medium saucepan, combine 12 ounces of cranberries, 1 cup of water, and 1 cup of granulated sugar. If using orange juice or zest, add it now. Stir well.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil (5 minutes)

Set the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar and ensure the cranberries cook evenly.

Step 4: Simmer and Burst the Berries (10 minutes)

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the cranberries to cook until they begin to burst, releasing their juices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Tip: If you prefer a smooth sauce, use a potato masher to break down the berries further during this step.

Step 5: Cool and Thicken (10 minutes)

Remove the pan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool. As it cools, it will thicken due to the natural pectin in the cranberries. Transfer the sauce to a serving dish or airtight container.

Tip: For a jellied texture, strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the skins before cooling.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve (Optional, 2 minutes)

Serve your cranberry sauce as-is or garnish with a sprinkle of orange zest, a cinnamon stick, or chopped nuts for added flair.

Pro Tips for Successful Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce

Start with Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh cranberries are the star of this recipe. If you’re using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply add them to the pot straight from the freezer.

Monitor Your Sugar Levels

• Cranberries are naturally tart, so sugar is a must. However, if you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar to ¾ cup or use honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Don’t Skip the Cooling Step

• It’s tempting to dive right in, but the sauce thickens significantly as it cools. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Experiment with Add-Ins

• Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a few whole cloves during cooking for a spiced cranberry sauce.
• Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts after cooking for a nutty texture.

Make It Ahead

• Cranberry sauce tastes even better the next day! Prepare it up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully over time.

Customize the Consistency

• If you like a thinner sauce, add a tablespoon or two of water during cooking. For a thicker, jam-like texture, simmer the sauce a bit longer or use slightly less water.

Serve Warm or Cold

• This cranberry sauce can be served chilled for a refreshing contrast to hot dishes, or warmed slightly for a cozy feel. Either way, it’s a hit!

Use High-Quality Additions

• If you’re adding wine, juice, or spices, use the best you can find. A splash of fresh-squeezed orange juice or a dash of aged port can elevate this simple recipe to gourmet status.

Variants of the Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce Recipe

1. Orange-Infused Cranberry Sauce

Substitute half the water with freshly squeezed orange juice and add a teaspoon of orange zest for a zesty citrus twist. This version pairs especially well with roasted poultry and adds a bright, sunny flavor to your holiday table.

2. Spiced Cranberry Sauce

Add a cinnamon stick, a pinch of ground nutmeg, and a few whole cloves during the simmering process. Remove the spices before serving. This warm, aromatic variation is perfect for colder months and pairs beautifully with savory dishes like ham or pork.

3. Port Wine Cranberry Sauce

Replace 2–3 tablespoons of water with a robust port wine. The rich, fruity flavor of the wine deepens the cranberry sauce, making it an elegant addition to more formal meals.

4. Cranberry-Pecan Sauce

Stir in ¼ cup of toasted, chopped pecans after the sauce has cooled. This adds a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor, creating a unique texture that complements both sweet and savory dishes.

5. Low-Sugar Cranberry Sauce

Reduce the sugar to ½ cup or use a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or stevia. This version is ideal for those looking to cut back on refined sugar without sacrificing flavor.

6. Jellied Cranberry Sauce

For a smooth, jellied consistency, strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth before cooling. Let it set in a mold for a fun and retro presentation.

Serving Suggestions to the Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce

1. As a Classic Side Dish

Serve the cranberry sauce in a decorative bowl alongside your main holiday dishes. Its sweet-tart flavor complements turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole.

2. On Sandwiches

Spread cranberry sauce on leftover turkey sandwiches for a touch of sweetness. It’s also delicious paired with brie or cheddar cheese for a gourmet sandwich experience.

3. As a Glaze for Meats

Brush cranberry sauce over chicken, pork, or ham during the last 10 minutes of roasting. The sugars caramelize beautifully, creating a tangy, sticky glaze.

4. Over Desserts

Use cranberry sauce as a topping for cheesecakes, pound cakes, or vanilla ice cream. Its vibrant color and tartness provide a striking contrast to sweet desserts.

5. In Breakfast Dishes

Stir cranberry sauce into oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothie bowls for a festive morning treat. It’s also an excellent filling for crepes or a topping for pancakes.

6. Paired with Cheese

Serve cranberry sauce on a cheese board with crackers, aged cheddar, brie, or goat cheese. Its tartness balances the richness of the cheese for a delightful pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Transfer cooled cranberry sauce to an airtight container. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Leave some room in the container, as the sauce will expand when frozen.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Reheat the sauce gently in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a tablespoon of water if it’s too thick.
• Microwave: Warm the sauce in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 15 seconds to ensure even heating.
• Thawing Frozen Sauce: Place the container in the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Reheat as needed.

Preserving Texture

• Avoid overheating the Ocean Spray Cranberry sauce to prevent it from breaking down too much. Serve it slightly warm or at room temperature for the best consistency.

Creative Uses for the cranberry sauce

1. Cranberry Salad Dressing: Blend leftover cranberry sauce with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard for a tangy, homemade vinaigrette.
2. Cranberry Cocktail: Mix cranberry sauce with vodka, sparkling water, and a squeeze of lime for a festive holiday drink.
3. Cranberry Barbecue Sauce: Combine leftover cranberry sauce with ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a sweet-and-tangy barbecue sauce.
4. Cranberry Yogurt Parfait: Layer cranberry sauce with Greek yogurt and granola for a nutritious snack or breakfast.
5. Cranberry Tart: Use the sauce as a filling for a simple tart crust, topped with whipped cream or meringue.

Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Recipe by SimonDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

2

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

110

kcal

This Ocean Spray cranberry sauce recipe is a quick, classic, and delicious way to bring a pop of tangy-sweet flavor to your holiday table. Perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas, it’s made with just three main ingredients and can be customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (1 bag) fresh or frozen cranberries

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup water

• Optional

• ½ cup orange juice (in place of water)

• 1 teaspoon orange zest

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 2 tablespoons port wine

• ¼ cup chopped pecans

Directions

• Rinse the cranberries under cold water, discarding any that are shriveled or damaged.
• In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
• Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
• Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool. Transfer to a serving dish or airtight container.
• Serve as-is, or garnish with optional toppings like orange zest or chopped nuts.

Notes

• The sauce will thicken as it cools.
• For a smooth, jellied sauce, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before cooling.

FAQs about Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce

Cultural Context

Ocean Spray Cranberry sauce recipe has deep roots in American holiday traditions. Cranberries, native to North America, were likely part of the first Thanksgiving feasts. Ocean Spray, founded in 1930, revolutionized the way we enjoy cranberries, making this tangy fruit a staple in households across the nation. Whether served smooth and jellied or chunky and fresh, cranberry sauce is a reminder of togetherness, abundance, and culinary creativity.

Did you try this Ocean Spray cranberry sauce recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Share your photos, tips, or variations in the comments below. Don’t forget to tag us on social media so we can see your creations—your twist on this classic might inspire others!

Health Benefits of the Ocean Spray Cranberry sauce recipe

Cranberry sauce isn’t just a festive treat—it’s packed with surprising health benefits:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries are loaded with vitamins C, E, and K, which help combat oxidative stress and support immune health.
2. Heart Health: Cranberries are known to improve heart health by reducing cholesterol and promoting good circulation.
3. Urinary Tract Health: Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins, which are believed to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
4. Low in Calories: At around 110 calories per serving, this cranberry sauce is a guilt-free addition to your meal.
5. Natural Digestive Aid: The fiber content in cranberries supports digestive health, making this dish both tasty and functional.

Cranberry sauce is more than a holiday side—it’s a vibrant, versatile dish that brings life to any meal. This Ocean Spray cranberry sauce recipe is a celebration of simplicity, combining fresh, wholesome ingredients into a sweet-tart masterpiece. Whether you stick with the classic or explore one of the delightful variations, you’re sure to create a dish that leaves everyone at the table reaching for seconds.

If you loved this recipe, don’t miss our guides on other holiday classics like homemade Gipfeli Recipe. Ready to start your culinary adventure? Grab your cranberries and get cooking! Your holiday table is about to become a little brighter—and a lot tastier.