Easy Homemade Cranberry Compote: A Tangy, Bright Treat (Print Version)

Whip up a delightful Easy Homemade Cranberry Compote recipe with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a touch of spice. Perfect for any meal!

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 5 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 12 oz (about 3 cups) fresh cranberries, rinsed
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
03 - 1/2 cup water

→ Flavor Boosters

04 - 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
05 - 1 tablespoon orange zest (from one orange)
06 - 1 cinnamon stick

→ Optional Extras

07 - Pinch of salt
08 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Instructions:

01 - Start by getting all your ingredients out. I swear, half my kitchen chaos comes from running around mid-cook. Give those fresh cranberries a good rinse under cold water. You'll see some little stems or soft ones; just pick 'em out. I always miss one or two, honestly, but it adds character, right?
02 - In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, granulated sugar, water, orange juice, and that lovely orange zest. Drop in the cinnamon stick, too. Give it a gentle stir – you want everything to get acquainted. I usually use a non-stick pan because I once scorched a batch to the bottom of a stainless steel one, and *that* was a scrubbing nightmare.
03 - Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. You’ll start to hear little pops as the cranberries burst open, releasing their juices. It’s a beautiful sound, honestly, like tiny fireworks in your kitchen. This is where the magic really starts for your Easy Homemade Cranberry Compote! Don't walk away completely, just keep an eye on it.
04 - Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The compote will thicken as the cranberries break down and the liquid reduces. I like mine a bit chunky, so I don't mash them too much. If you want it smoother, just gently press them against the side of the pan with your spoon.
05 - After simmering, remove the pan from the heat. This is when I like to stir in that tiny pinch of salt and, if I'm feeling extra fancy, a splash of vanilla extract. The vanilla really rounds out the flavors. Give it a taste – is it sweet enough for you? Too tart? Now's your chance to adjust a bit more sugar if you want.
06 - Let the Easy Homemade Cranberry Compote cool completely in the saucepan. As it cools, it will thicken even more. Once it's at room temperature, transfer it to a jar or airtight container. I usually can't resist a little spoonful warm, straight from the pan – oops! It's just so good.

# Notes:

01 - Always taste and adjust the sugar *after* simmering; cranberries vary in tartness!
02 - Store cooled compote in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days.
03 - No fresh oranges? A teaspoon of orange extract and a splash of lemon juice works in a pinch.
04 - For an extra festive touch, add a star anise pod while simmering for a subtle licorice note.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Medium saucepan
02 - wooden spoon
03 - zester

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 150 kcal
Total Fat: 0g
Total Carbohydrate: 38g
Protein: 0g

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