Is this the official Joanna Gaines cranberry sauce?

No — this is not the official Magnolia recipe. This version is inspired by Joanna Gaines’ farmhouse style and the cozy, rustic flavors she often uses in her holiday recipes. It follows the same warm simplicity and Magnolia aesthetic many home cooks love.

Can I make this cranberry sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. This cranberry sauce is perfect for make-ahead holiday cooking. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months. The flavors deepen as it rests, making it even better for Christmas dinner.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes! Frozen cranberries work beautifully — there’s no need to thaw them. They may take 1–2 minutes longer to burst, but the texture remains perfect.

How do I thicken cranberry sauce naturally?

Cranberries are naturally high in pectin, so your sauce thickens on its own as it cools. If you prefer an extra-thick texture, simmer 2–3 minutes longer or mash more berries with a spoon.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes. You can use less sugar, swap for honey, or use maple syrup for a warm holiday twist. For sugar-free options, use a zero-calorie sweetener like monk fruit.

What can I serve with cranberry sauce?

It pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, chicken, casseroles, charcuterie boards, biscuits, and more. For more inspiration, explore our seasonal favorites like Cozy Fall Sunday Dinner Ideas or our reader-loved Holiday Side Dishes Collection.

Joanna Gaines–Inspired Cranberry Sauce (Cozy Christmas Recipe)

Description

A cozy, farmhouse-style cranberry sauce inspired by Joanna Gaines — sweet, tart, rustic, and perfect for Christmas dinner or festive charcuterie boards.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz fresh cranberries
1 orange (zest and juice)
1/3 cup sugar, honey, or maple syrup
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: pinch of nutmeg
Optional: orange peel curls for garnish

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, water, cinnamon, and sweetener. Simmer over medium heat until cranberries begin to burst.
Use a wooden spoon to crush some of the berries, leaving some whole for rustic texture.
Stir in orange zest, vanilla, and optional nutmeg. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until thickened.
Let cool completely. Serve warm or chilled with your favorite holiday dishes.

Notes

Store in the fridge for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Serve with turkey, ham, roasted chicken, biscuits, or on a holiday cheese board.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 60
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 1mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cranberry sauce, Christmas dinner, Joanna Gaines, farmhouse holiday, Magnolia-inspired