This Delia Smith-inspired cranberry sauce is a classic festive staple with a bright, tangy flavour and a beautifully glossy finish. It is gently simmered until the berries burst, creating a sauce that is both sharp and lightly sweet with a soft, spoonable texture. The recipe is very easy to make and comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for stress-free holiday cooking.
Ingredients
For the cranberry sauce
- 340g fresh cranberries
- 175g caster sugar
- 150ml water
- Finely grated zest of 1 orange
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
How to Make Delia Smith Cranberry Sauce
- Prepare the pan: Place a medium saucepan over low to medium heat. Add the water and caster sugar, then heat gently until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Add the cranberries: Tip the fresh cranberries into the pan along with the orange zest and orange juice. Stir gently to combine.
- Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens naturally.
- Cool and set: Remove the pan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool. It will thicken further as it cools.
- Serve or store: Transfer to a serving bowl or storage container once completely cool.
Tips
Why is my cranberry sauce too runny?
The sauce thickens as it cools. If it still seems loose, simmer it for another 2 to 3 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
How do I balance overly sharp cranberry sauce?
Add a tablespoon of sugar or a drizzle of honey while the sauce is still warm, then stir and taste again.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, cranberry sauce keeps very well. Making it a few days ahead allows the flavours to develop.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roast turkey or chicken
- Spoon alongside roast potatoes and stuffing
- Use as a spread in festive sandwiches
- Pair with cold cuts and cheeses
Storage
Room temperature
Do not store at room temperature for extended periods. Serve and return leftovers to the fridge promptly.
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Freezing
Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before use.
Nutrition
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 0.4g
- Fat: 0.1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 2mg
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well. Add them straight to the pan without thawing.
How far in advance can I make cranberry sauce?
You can make it up to a week in advance and store it in the fridge.
Can I make this sauce without orange?
Yes, replace the orange juice and zest with a little extra water or lemon juice.
Does cranberry sauce thicken as it cools?
Yes, it naturally thickens once cooled thanks to the pectin in the cranberries.
Delia Smith Cranberry Sauce
Course: Side DishCuisine: BritishDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal1
hour10
minutesA classic Delia Smith-style cranberry sauce made with fresh cranberries and orange for a bright, festive flavour.
Ingredients
340g fresh cranberries
175g caster sugar
150ml water
Zest of 1 orange
2 tbsp orange juice
Directions
- Heat sugar and water gently until dissolved.
- Add cranberries, orange zest, and juice.
- Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until cranberries burst.
- Cool completely to allow sauce to thicken.
Notes
- Stir gently to avoid breaking down the cranberries too much.
- Adjust sweetness to taste once cooled.
