I grew up eating Cranberry Jelly – you know that gelatinous stuff from a can. It was a staple at my house as a kid and I hated it. Twice a year my mom pulled out a special crystal dish, that was only used for cranberry sauce.
Fast forward some 30 plus years and I’m still serving that same stuff. The only difference is my kids and hubby like it and we have it throughout the year.
But there is a better option! When I can get fresh cranberries I make homemade Cranberry Orange Compote. Not only does it make Thanksgiving a little more special, it does not contain any mystery ingredients that I am happy ignoring on the label of a can of cranberry jelly.
Cranberry Orange Compote
2 cups fresh cranberries
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
2/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon orange zest
Place all ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a low boil over medium heat. Cook for ten minutes stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Mash mixture with a potato masher. Taste and add more sugar if needed. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Tips
- Make the day before to allow to chill completely.
- Adjust the sugar while the mixture is still warm so the sugar can dissolve. Sometime the berries can be extra tart.
- Print a recipe card to add to your collection. Cranberry Orange Compote Recipe Card
I just made this yesterday in preparation for the big dinner. The only difference is that I use the crockpot (on high for 2 hours).
Now it’s one less thing to worry about on Thursday. Today, I’m working on the stuffing. Here’s to a stress-free cooking experience on Thanksgiving. 🙂
I have never thought of putting it in a slow cooker. What a great idea!
Hi “Momma B,”
I work for Twin Pines Landscaping, and we are putting together a bunch of our favorite Thanksgiving recipes featuring fruits and veggies to share on our social media accounts! With your permission, we’d love to share your picture and link to the recipe here on your blog! Let us know what you think!
Thanks, and Happy Almost Thanksgiving!
Ashley DiFranza and The Twin Pines Landscaping Team