Looking to elevate your holiday meals with a burst of flavor that will leave your guests raving? Say hello to our irresistible Vanilla Rum Cranberry Sauce! This delightful twist on a classic dish combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the warm, inviting notes of vanilla and rum, creating a sauce that's perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant sauce that not only complements turkey and ham but also makes a fantastic topping for desserts. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this simple yet spectacular recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup vanilla rum
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Remove any stems or damaged berries, discarding them as you go.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, add the rinsed cranberries to the saucepan. Stir gently to combine the cranberries with the sugar-water mixture.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. You should hear the cranberries popping as they cook.
- Allow the cranberries to simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally, and watch as the cranberries burst and the sauce begins to thicken.
- After 10 minutes of simmering, add the 1/4 cup of vanilla rum, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to the saucepan. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.
- Continue to simmer the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.
- Once the sauce has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving dish or an airtight container. If serving immediately, allow it to cool to room temperature before serving. If storing, refrigerate until ready to use.
- Enjoy your Vanilla Rum Cranberry Sauce as a delightful accompaniment to your holiday meals or as a flavorful topping for desserts!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Cranberries: Always opt for fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture. Look for bright, plump berries and avoid any that are wrinkled or soft.
- Customize the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup or even 1/2 cup. You can also substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a unique twist.
- Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon adds a warm touch, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of flavor that will enhance the holiday spirit.
- Let it Cool: Remember, the sauce will thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny right off the stove. Allow it to sit at room temperature before serving or refrigerating.
- Make Ahead: This sauce can be made a day or two in advance, making it a perfect time-saver for holiday prep. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
- Serve Creatively: Beyond the holiday table, try using this sauce as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or pancakes for a delightful breakfast treat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 277kcal
Carbohydrates: 62g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
