Cranberry sauce is a staple at holiday gatherings, but adding raspberry jam takes it to a whole new level. This cranberry sauce with raspberry jam recipe brings together the tartness of fresh cranberries and the rich sweetness of raspberry jam for a perfectly balanced flavor. It’s quick to make, requires only a few simple ingredients, and pairs beautifully with Thanksgiving and Christmas dishes.
Whether you’re serving it alongside roast turkey, ham, or even using it as a topping for desserts, this homemade cranberry sauce is sure to be a hit. Plus, it comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an easy yet impressive addition to your holiday table.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make this delicious cranberry sauce step by step, along with helpful tips, ingredient variations, and serving ideas. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Sauce with Raspberry Jam
A Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tangy Flavors
This cranberry sauce with raspberry jam combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of raspberry jam, creating a well-balanced flavor that complements a variety of dishes.
Quick and Easy – Ready in Just 15 Minutes
This homemade cranberry sauce is simple to prepare and takes only 15 minutes to make. It is a hassle-free addition to your holiday meal.
A Great Addition to Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinner
This sauce pairs perfectly with traditional holiday dishes like roast turkey, glazed ham, and prime rib. It adds a festive touch to any Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Pairs Well with Turkey, Ham, and Even Desserts
Cranberry sauce with raspberry jam is not just for savory dishes. It also works well as a topping for cheesecake, vanilla ice cream, or pound cake, adding a fruity and tangy contrast.
Elevate your holiday meals with this sweet and tangy cranberry sauce with raspberry jam
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Cranberry Raspberry Jam Recipe
Main Ingredients
To make this cranberry sauce with raspberry jam, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that bring out the perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors:
Fresh cranberries – The base of the sauce, providing a natural tartness.
Raspberry jam – Adds sweetness and enhances the fruity flavor.
Sugar – Helps balance the tartness of the cranberries.
Orange zest – Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the berries.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
For added depth and warmth, consider including:
Cinnamon – A hint of spice for a cozy, holiday flavor.
Maple syrup – A natural sweetener that adds richness.
Lemon juice – Enhances the tartness and balances the sweetness.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need alternatives, here are some easy swaps:
Honey instead of sugar – For a more natural sweetness.
Frozen cranberries instead of fresh – Works just as well; no need to thaw before cooking
Discover the main ingredients and nutrition facts for this delicious cranberry sauce with raspberry jam recipe
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients: 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries ½ cup raspberry jam ½ cup sugar (or honey) 1 teaspoon orange zest ¼ cup water Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor: ½ teaspoon cinnamon 1 tablespoon maple syrup 1 teaspoon lemon juice Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) Calories: ~80 Carbohydrates: 20g Sugar: 15g Fiber: 2g Vitamin C: 10% DV
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Serving Details
Prep Time
Cook Time
Total Time
Servings
Yield
5 minutes
10 minutes
15 minutes
6-8 servings
About 2 cups
Key Features
Quick and easy – ready in just 15 minutes
Made with simple, natural ingredients
Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and holiday meals
Pairs well with savory dishes and desserts
Can be made ahead and stored for later
Pro Tips for a Perfect Cranberry Sauce
Adjust sweetness – Add more raspberry jam or a touch of honey if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
For a thicker sauce – Let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
Make it ahead – This sauce stores well in the fridge for up to a week, allowing flavors to develop even more.
Try different flavors – Swap orange zest for lemon zest or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Raspberry Jam
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients to make the cooking process smooth and easy.
Wash the fresh cranberries thoroughly and drain them.
Measure out the sugar (or honey), raspberry jam, orange zest, and any optional add-ins.
Step 2: Cook the Cranberries
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, and ¼ cup of water.
Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the cranberries start to burst and soften.
Step 3: Add Raspberry Jam
Once the cranberries have softened, reduce the heat to low.
Stir in the raspberry jam, making sure it’s fully incorporated.
Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Let It Cool & Serve
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool slightly.
The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference. It pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, and even desserts.
Elevate your holiday meals with this sweet and tangy cranberry sauce with raspberry jam
Tips for the Best Cranberry Sauce Recipe
How to Adjust Sweetness
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more raspberry jam or a drizzle of honey.
To make it less sweet, reduce the sugar or balance it with a splash of lemon juice for extra tartness.
How to Make It Thicker or Thinner
For a thicker sauce: Let it simmer longer to allow excess liquid to evaporate, or mash some of the cranberries for a jam-like consistency.
For a thinner sauce: Stir in a little more water or orange juice while cooking until you reach the desired texture.
Storing and Freezing Cranberry Sauce for Later
Keep any leftover sauce fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to seven days.
To freeze, let the sauce cool completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Using Leftovers in Sandwiches, Desserts, or Cocktails
Sandwiches: Spread it on turkey or grilled cheese sandwiches for a sweet and tangy twist.
Desserts: Use it as a topping for cheesecake, pancakes, or vanilla ice cream.
Cocktails: Mix it into holiday drinks like cranberry mimosas or add a spoonful to sparkling water for a refreshing twist.
FAQs About Cranberry Sauce with Raspberry Jam
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh, delivering the same vibrant flavor. There’s no need to thaw them before cooking—simply add them to the saucepan and follow the recipe as usual. You may need to simmer them for an extra minute or two since they release more moisture.
How Long Does Homemade Cranberry Sauce Last?
Homemade cranberry sauce lasts up to a week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Is It Possible to Prepare This Cranberry Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely. This cranberry sauce tastes even better after sitting for a day, allowing the flavors to blend. Prepare it 1-3 days in advance, store it in the fridge, and serve it chilled or warm it up before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Sauce?
This cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with:
Roast turkey, ham, or chicken for a holiday meal
Brie or cream cheese as a dip with crackers
Sandwiches or wraps for a sweet and tangy contrast
Pancakes, waffles, or desserts as a fruity topping
You’ll Also Love
If you enjoyed this cranberry sauce with raspberry jam recipe, here are a few more delicious recipes to try:
Homemade Raspberry Jam – A simple and flavorful jam recipe perfect for breakfast or baking.
Classic Cranberry Sauce – A traditional version made with fresh cranberries and orange zest.
Thanksgiving Stuffing with Cranberries – A sweet and savory stuffing recipe that pairs beautifully with holiday meals.
Cranberry Orange Muffins – Soft and moist muffins packed with citrusy and tart cranberry flavors.
Festive Holiday Punch with Cranberries – A refreshing and fruity drink perfect for celebrations.
Tools You’ll Need to Prepare This Cranberry Sauce with Raspberry Jam Recipe
Saucepan – A medium-sized saucepan is perfect for simmering the cranberries and other ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – To measure your ingredients accurately.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Stirrer – For stirring the cranberry sauce as it simmers.
Zester or Grater – To zest the orange for a fresh citrus flavor.
Cutting Board and Knife – If you’re slicing any ingredients or zesting the orange.
Storage Containers – Airtight containers for storing the cranberry sauce once it’s done.
Ladle or Spoon – For serving the sauce when it’s ready to enjoy.
Conclusion
This cranberry sauce with raspberry jam is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a must-have for holiday meals. Whether you’re serving it with turkey, ham, or even as a topping for desserts, this easy recipe adds a delicious homemade touch to any dish.
Best of all, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use. Try this simple yet flavorful recipe and enjoy the rich, fruity taste it brings to your table.
Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram – we’d love to see how you serve this delicious cranberry sauce!
