Pure Thyme

For a Balanced Life

Apple Brandy Cranberry Sauce

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You really can’t beat this cranberry sauce. It’s unbelievably delicious and so easy to make. If you’ve never made homemade cranberry sauce, now is your chance. I have made several versions over the years, but this is by far my favorite. I served this over Thanksgivukkah and it’s making another appearance for Christmas.

Cranberry sauce is really good anytime of year and it’s perfect for canning and gifting. I really want to start a homemade gift basket of my favorite healthy recipes to start giving my loved ones over the holidays.  I have a laundry list of things I want to do, but sometimes I feel my day is a success if I get all three kids – including myself – showered, dressed and out of the house on time!

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The addition of apple brandy really makes the flavors of this cranberry sauce pop. It’s not overpowering at all, but adds some warmth and spirit to it. It has 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup which is just the right amount of “sweet” for me. Can I be in love with a recipe? Yep! Am I super corny when I write about food? That too!

Apple Brandy Cranberry Sauce
 

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This cranberry sauce is the perfect addition to your holiday table or enjoyed anytime of year.
Author:
Recipe type: Condiment

Ingredients
  • 1 (12) oz. bag cranberries, washed
  • 1 cup apple juice
  • ½ cup 100% pure maple syrup
  • 4 tbsp Apple Brandy
  • ¼ tsp fresh clementine or orange zest
  • Pinch of cinnamon

Instructions
  1. Add cranberries, apple juice, maple syrup, apple brandy, orange zest and cinnamon to medium saucepan and stir. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  2. Reduce to a simmer and continue cooking uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the juice is thick. Remove from heat and cool. Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.

 

If you need some inspiration for some last-minute homemade gifts, check out Richa’s awesome Vegan Christmas Cookies & Jar Gifts. I am absolutely in love with these, so easy and so cute.

I was running out of ideas for the Elf on the Shelf and she saved me with these. If you are plagued with these somewhat creepy elves over the holidays, you know how easy it is to run out of ideas. Nevertheless, the kids love these little guys and they absolutely loved Cookies in a Jar!

 *crappy iphone pic alert*

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Does anyone make homemade/handmade gifts over the holidays?

Don’t be shy and share your thoughts, it’s more fun that way!

Happy Holidays!!

xoxo,

Jennifer

Comments

  1. Angie Wilson says

    Jen has such a creative mind! This cranberry sauce it one of the homemade best recipes I have come across AND it pairs nicely with her sourdough stuffing! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for sharing your inspirations.

    • Jennifer says

      Hi Mallory,

      I love Marsala wine and pomegranate molasses sounds SO good, I’ve never had that before….YUM!! Thanks for stopping by and Merry Christmas to you.

      Jen

  6. Rea says

    Oh wow, I’m inlove with it too! Looks really delicious and healthy. I’ve had several plans of making homemade gifts for the holiday season but none of them materialized. Ahaha, gotta try harder next time! 🙂

    • Jennifer says

      We are definitely enjoying the season, but this whole year just flew by! I need it to slow down a bit sheesh! Hope you are enjoying as well 🙂

    • Jennifer says

      It really comes out great…if you like a sweeter cranberry sauce you can add another 1/2 cup but I don’t think it needs it…the brandy flavor comes out more after a day sitting in the fridge…it had just a hint of apple brandy, you can up that too if you want a heavier flavor =)

      Thanks for stopping by Alicia!

      xoxo

      Jen

    • Jennifer says

      I’ve been pretty much putting it on everything! Lol it’s yummy!

      Thanks for stopping by Gigi!

  11. Ilene Evans says

    Jennifer, I am going to have to start blog stalking you! I am vegetarian since high school and on and off vegan for the past 6 years. I was “off” for a long time but have committed to going back to it to feel better and have more energy. This cranberry sauce sounds delish. I never thought to use maple syrup in cranberry sauce! I like the minestrone recipe you posted earlier as well. Cheers! .