Transform your holiday meals with the vibrant, fresh taste of homemade cranberry sauce, effortlessly prepared in your Instant Pot. Forget the wobbly, overly sweet canned varieties; this recipe delivers a bright, tart, and perfectly balanced sauce that will elevate any dish. In just minutes, you can achieve a thick, glossy, and irresistibly delicious cranberry sauce that tastes like it took hours to make. It’s so simple, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for store-bought.
Original Post Date October 14, 2017. Updated and optimized for current best practices.
Homemade Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce: Your Easiest Holiday Side!
The holiday season often brings with it a whirlwind of elaborate cooking and sometimes overwhelming stress. But what if one of your most beloved side dishes could be prepared with minimal effort and maximum flavor? Enter the Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce. This recipe is a game-changer, transforming fresh or frozen cranberries into a luscious, perfectly textured sauce that outshines its canned counterparts every single time. It’s the ideal blend of tart and sweet, with a hint of warm spice, making it an indispensable addition to your festive table.
Crafting homemade cranberry sauce doesn’t just mean a superior taste experience; it also gives you complete control over the ingredients. You can adjust the sweetness to your preference, experiment with different flavors, and avoid the preservatives often found in commercial products. And with the speed and efficiency of the Instant Pot, this culinary luxury becomes an everyday possibility, even on your busiest days.
Table of Contents
Why Choose the Instant Pot for Cranberry Sauce?
While traditional stovetop methods for cranberry sauce are certainly effective, the Instant Pot brings a level of convenience and consistency that is hard to beat. The pressure cooking environment ensures that the cranberries break down perfectly, releasing their juices and pectin to create a naturally thick and smooth sauce without constant stirring. This hands-off approach frees up valuable stovetop space and allows you to focus on other holiday preparations.
Beyond convenience, the Instant Pot helps to infuse flavors deeply and quickly. The sealed environment traps aromas and moisture, resulting in a more intensely flavored sauce. You’ll find that the combination of tart cranberries, sweet honey, bright orange juice, and aromatic cinnamon melds together beautifully, yielding a complex and satisfying taste profile that traditional methods might take longer to achieve. It’s also incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
The Essentials: Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce Ingredients
Creating an extraordinary cranberry sauce requires only a few simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture that sets homemade sauce apart from the rest. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Cranberries: The star of the show! You have the flexibility to use either fresh or frozen cranberries. Both work wonderfully in this recipe. If you’re using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to defrost them beforehand. However, it’s a good practice to give them a quick rinse to wash off any ice crystals that might have formed, ensuring a cleaner flavor. Fresh cranberries offer a slightly brighter, crisper initial burst of flavor, while frozen berries are equally reliable and often more convenient outside of peak season.
- Honey: This natural sweetener adds a beautiful depth and richness that granulated sugar alone cannot provide. Honey complements the tartness of the cranberries with its floral notes, creating a more nuanced sweetness. Raw honey, in particular, can offer additional subtle flavors. You can adjust the amount of honey to suit your desired level of sweetness.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is highly recommended here, as it introduces a vibrant citrusy brightness that beautifully cuts through the richness of holiday meals. It also provides the essential liquid needed for the Instant Pot to come to pressure. Avoid orange juice concentrates or artificial flavors for the best results; pure squeezed juice makes a noticeable difference.
- Cinnamon: A touch of cinnamon adds a warm, inviting spice that harmonizes perfectly with cranberries. You can use ground cinnamon for ease or two cinnamon sticks for a more subtle, infused flavor. Cinnamon sticks are often preferred as they can be easily removed after cooking, leaving just the essence of the spice without any grittiness.
- Sugar or Sweetener: Alongside honey, a small amount of granulated sugar or your preferred sweetener helps to balance the inherent tartness of cranberries. The recipe suggests starting with a smaller amount and tasting, allowing you to fine-tune the sweetness to your palate. This flexibility ensures your cranberry sauce is exactly how you like it – whether you prefer it more tart or distinctly sweet.
Mastering the Instant Pot: Step-by-Step Cranberry Sauce Instructions
Making homemade cranberry sauce in the Instant Pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for a consistently perfect batch every time:
- Prepare Your Cranberries: Begin by thoroughly rinsing your fresh or frozen cranberries under cold water. If using frozen berries, simply rinse off any lingering ice crystals; there’s no need to thaw them. This ensures your sauce has the purest cranberry flavor.
- Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot: Place the rinsed cranberries into the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Next, add the liquid components: orange juice and honey. Then, introduce your chosen sweeteners and spices: sugar (or alternative sweetener) and cinnamon (either ground or sticks). Give everything a gentle stir to ensure all the cranberries are coated and the ingredients are well distributed.
- Pressure Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring it’s properly locked. Set the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the cooking time for 8 minutes on High Pressure. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come up to pressure before the timer begins its countdown.
- Allow Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, resist the urge to immediately release the pressure. Instead, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10-15 minutes. This natural release process is crucial for preventing a sudden burst of steam and helps the sauce thicken properly as it cools slightly. After the natural release, carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
- Stir and Mash for Desired Texture: Open the lid and give the sauce a good stir. You’ll notice that the cranberries have burst open, creating a thick, vibrant sauce. For a chunkier sauce, simply stir and serve. If you prefer a smoother consistency, use a spoon or a potato masher to gently mash the cranberries to your liking. For an exceptionally smooth sauce, you could even use an immersion blender, but be careful not to over-process.
- Taste and Adjust Sweetness: This is a crucial step! Take a small taste of your warm cranberry sauce. Depending on the tartness of your cranberries and your personal preference, you might want to add a little more honey or sugar. Stir it in thoroughly and taste again until you achieve your ideal balance of tart and sweet. Remember, the flavor will intensify slightly as it cools.
- Chill and Serve: Carefully transfer your freshly made cranberry sauce to a serving bowl or an airtight container. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. The sauce will continue to thicken significantly as it chills. Serve it warm or chilled, as a delightful accompaniment to your holiday feast or any meal.
Recipe Card: Instant Pot Homemade Cranberry Sauce
By Brandi Crawford
This Instant Pot cranberry sauce is proof that holiday sides don’t have to be stressful. Cranberry sauce doesn’t have to be that jiggly canned stuff. With the Instant Pot, you can make it fresh in minutes, and the flavor is on another level, bright, tart, and just sweet enough. I’ve tested this recipe so it comes out perfectly thick and glossy every time, and it’s so simple you’ll wonder why you ever reached for store-bought.
Rated 5 stars from 15 votes.
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Prep Time: 2 mins
Cook Time: 8 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
Course: Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 10
Calories: 55 kcal per serving
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 16 oz cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- ¼ cup raw honey
- 1 cup pure squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon or 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 tablespoons sweetener or sugar (Start with 1 teaspoon and taste repeatedly until desired taste is met.)
Instructions
- Combine all of the ingredients in the Instant Pot.
- Place the Instant Pot on Manual > High Pressure Cooking for 8 minutes.
- Allow the steam to release naturally instead of quick release.
- Spoon the sauce into a bowl. Refrigerate prior to serving if you prefer your sauce to be cold. The sauce will thicken as it cools off.
Video
Check out our video guide for making this Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce!
Notes
You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries in this recipe. If using frozen you don’t have to defrost them, but I recommend rinsing off any ice crystals if present.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 55 kcal | Carbohydrates: 11 g
Nutrition Data Disclaimer: Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
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Make-Ahead & Storage Tips for Perfect Cranberry Sauce
One of the many benefits of homemade cranberry sauce is its excellent shelf life, making it an ideal candidate for make-ahead holiday meal prep. Proper storage ensures your sauce remains fresh and delicious for days or even months.
Making Ahead: This cranberry sauce is the perfect dish to prepare in advance. Its flavors meld and deepen over time, often tasting even better the day after it’s made. Simply prepare it as directed, allow it to cool completely, and then store it in the refrigerator. This frees up valuable time and reduces stress on the actual day of your event.
Refrigeration: Once cooled, transfer your cranberry sauce to an airtight container. Glass jars or food-grade plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work best. Stored properly in the refrigerator, homemade cranberry sauce will maintain its quality for up to 7 days. Always ensure it’s fully chilled before sealing to prevent condensation and spoilage.
Freezer Tips: For longer storage, cranberry sauce freezes beautifully. Allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little headspace if using rigid containers (as liquids expand when frozen). It can be stored in the freezer for up to a year, though it retains its optimal freshness and texture for about 2 months. Thaw frozen cranberry sauce in the refrigerator overnight before serving. A quick stir might be needed to restore its perfect consistency.
Reheating: If serving warm, gently reheat the cranberry sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Add a splash of orange juice or water if it seems too thick after chilling.
Frequently Asked Questions for Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
Absolutely! This is the perfect dish for advance preparation. Once properly stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will last for up to 7 days. In fact, many people find that the flavors deepen and improve after a day or two, making it an excellent candidate for your holiday make-ahead plan.
The granulated sweetener used in this recipe helps with thickening, and the sauce naturally thickens significantly as it cools and chills in the refrigerator. If, after chilling for at least 2 hours, your sauce is still runnier than desired, you can easily thicken it further. In a small bowl, whisk together 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Slowly pour this slurry into the cranberry sauce while stirring continuously. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil on the stovetop (or use the sauté function on your Instant Pot) and simmer for a few minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches your preferred thickness. Cranberries naturally contain pectin, which aids in thickening, but a cornstarch slurry provides an effective boost if needed.
Yes, it’s essential to allow the sauce to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator for chilling. This not only helps it thicken properly but also prevents excess condensation and potential food safety issues that can arise from placing hot food directly into a cold environment.
For optimal thickness and flavor development, I recommend allowing the sauce to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours prior to serving. Chilling allows the natural pectin in the cranberries to fully activate and for the sauce to set to a desirable consistency. Overnight chilling is even better for maximum flavor infusion.
Store any leftover cranberry sauce in a tightly covered, airtight container. Glass jars or sealed plastic containers are ideal. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Always ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing other odors from your fridge.
Homemade cranberry sauce is a fantastic candidate for freezing. For best results, allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will last in the freezer for up to a year, but for peak freshness and quality, it’s best consumed within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Yes, the Instant Pot requires a minimum amount of liquid to come to pressure safely and effectively. In this recipe, pure squeezed orange juice serves this purpose beautifully, while also adding flavor. You could also use water, apple juice, or even a splash of red wine or port for a sophisticated twist, ensuring you meet the minimum liquid requirement for your Instant Pot model.
Yes, you can easily double this recipe by simply doubling all the ingredients. The cooking time for pressure cooking typically remains the same, as it’s about the time required for the ingredients to cook through, not the volume. However, always ensure that you do not fill your Instant Pot past its maximum fill line, which is usually marked on the inner pot.
Beyond the Basic: Customizing Your Cranberry Sauce
While this classic Instant Pot cranberry sauce is delicious on its own, it also serves as a fantastic canvas for customization. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different additions to tailor the flavor profile to your liking:
- Fruit Additions:
- Apples or Pears: Diced apples or pears can be added along with the cranberries. They contribute a subtle sweetness and additional pectin, helping to thicken the sauce while adding a delightful textural contrast. Choose firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for apples.
- Apple Juice: Substitute half of the orange juice with apple juice for a sweeter, more mellow base flavor.
- Dried Fruits: Stir in dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots after the sauce has cooked. The warmth of the sauce will plump them up, adding a chewy texture and concentrated sweetness.
- Spices & Aromatics:
- Ginger: A few slices of fresh ginger or a pinch of ground ginger can add a lovely warmth and subtle spicy kick.
- Cloves: Whole cloves (remove before serving) or a tiny pinch of ground cloves can deepen the festive aroma. Use sparingly as cloves can be potent.
- Nutmeg or Allspice: A hint of these traditional holiday spices can round out the flavor beautifully.
- Star Anise: For a unique, licorice-like note, add one or two star anise pods during cooking and remove before serving.
- Extracts & Zests:
- Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract added after cooking can enhance the sweetness and add a comforting aroma.
- Orange Zest: For an even more intense citrus punch, grate some fresh orange zest into the sauce after cooking.
- Lemon Zest or Juice: A little lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors and add another layer of tartness.
- Nuts: Toasted chopped pecans or walnuts can be stirred in just before serving for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Liqueurs: For an adult-friendly version, replace a small portion of the orange juice (e.g., ¼ cup) with Grand Marnier, Cointreau, brandy, or port wine. Add these after the pressure cooking cycle is complete and simmer briefly on the sauté function to cook off the alcohol, if desired, or stir in at the very end for a stronger flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Holiday Pairings
This Instant Pot cranberry sauce isn’t just for Thanksgiving or Christmas; its versatile flavor makes it a fantastic accompaniment to a variety of dishes throughout the year. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy your homemade cranberry sauce:
- Traditional Holiday Roasts: This sauce is, of course, a perfect match for roast turkey, chicken, ham, or even a crown roast of pork. Its tartness cuts through the richness of the meat beautifully.
- Breakfast & Brunch: Spoon it over pancakes, waffles, French toast, or oatmeal for a burst of flavor. It’s also delicious swirled into yogurt or cottage cheese.
- Cheese Boards: Cranberry sauce makes an excellent addition to a festive cheese board. Pair it with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese, or hard cheeses like aged cheddar.
- Sandwiches & Wraps: Add a dollop to your turkey sandwiches, especially leftover holiday sandwiches, for a gourmet touch.
- Desserts: Use it as a topping for cheesecake, panna cotta, or vanilla ice cream. You can also incorporate it into muffins, tarts, or crumbles.
- Savory Dishes: Don’t limit it to holidays! Serve it alongside pork chops, duck, or even a simple roasted chicken for an unexpected but delightful flavor pairing.
Explore More: Related Recipes
If you loved making this Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce, you might be interested in exploring other recipes that complement your holiday table or feature cranberries!
Instant Pot Thanksgiving Recipes:
- Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Instant Pot Southern Style Green Beans
- Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole
- Instant Pot Turkey Breast
Pair With These Recipes:
- Slow Cooker Turkey Legs
- Slow Cooker Turkey Wings
- Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast
- Smothered Turkey Wings
- Baked Crab Legs
- Baked Turkey Wings
- Southern Baked Ham With Pineapple
- Cajun Roasted Turkey
More Cranberry Recipes:
- Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce
- Cranberry Mimosas
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Cranberry Sauce
- Cranberry Jalapeno Dip