In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, water, orange zest, orange juice, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Set the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. You’ll notice the cranberries start to pop and burst, releasing their juices. This is where the magic begins!
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the cranberries to burst completely and the sauce to reduce slightly.
As the sauce simmers, keep an eye on its texture. It should thicken as it cools. Once you see that it’s reached a nice consistency, remove it from the heat.
Allow the mixture to cool for about 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, it will thicken even further, making it perfect for spreading.
Once cooled, transfer the Homemade Cranberry Sauce to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
