Keto Cranberry Sauce

The holiday season is a time for delicious food, and this vibrant Keto Cranberry Sauce ensures you can enjoy a classic without the carbs. In under 10 minutes, you’ll have a sweet, tangy, and healthy cranberry sauce that fits perfectly into your low-carb meal plan, making it ideal for any festive gathering.

Ingredients & What You’ll Need

This keto cranberry sauce focuses on simplicity and flavor with just five essential ingredients.

• Fresh Cranberries (¾ lb / 340 grams): These naturally low-sugar berries form the tart base of your sauce.
• Water (¾ cup / 177 ml): Helps cook down the cranberries and creates the sauce’s liquid base.
• Pure Orange Extract (⅛ tsp): Infuses a bright, citrusy note without adding extra sugar or carbs.
• Keto-Friendly Sweetener (1 cup / 150 grams confectioner Swerve): A zero-calorie, zero-carb sweetener that provides perfect sweetness without the sugar spike.
• (Optional) Spices: A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of vanilla extract can add extra depth.

How to Make Keto Cranberry Sauce

Making this holiday favorite is incredibly simple and comes together in just a few quick steps!

Preparing for the Sauce: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

First things first, gather all your ingredients. You’ll need ¾ pound (340 grams) of fresh cranberries, ¾ cup (177 ml) of water, ⅛ teaspoon of pure orange extract, and 1 cup (150 grams) of confectioner Swerve. Ensure your cranberries are rinsed and free of any debris.

Cooking the Cranberries

Place the rinsed cranberries into a medium-sized pot. Pour in the water and add the pure orange extract. Stir in the confectioner Swerve.

Simmering and Thickening the Sauce

Place the pot over medium heat. Stir gently as the cranberries heat up, watching them begin to burst and release their juices. Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, continue stirring to prevent sticking. You’ll want most of the cranberries to burst. After they’ve mostly burst and the sauce starts to thicken, reduce the heat to a simmer. Continue to stir for another 5 to 10 minutes. The sauce will thicken further as it cooks and cools.

Cooling and Serving

When the sauce has reached your desired consistency, carefully transfer it to a bowl. Allow it to cool completely to room temperature before serving. It will become even richer and more spoonable as it cools.

Creative Ways to Use Keto Cranberry Sauce

This versatile sauce isn’t just for turkey! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy your keto cranberry sauce:

Classic Holiday Pairing

Serve it as a traditional side with roasted turkey or chicken during your holiday meals.

Sandwich Spread

Use any leftover sauce as a tangy, sweet spread for turkey or chicken sandwiches.

Festive Appetizer

Pair it with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese on a keto cracker for an easy, festive appetizer.

Breakfast Topping

Spoon a dollop over plain Greek yogurt or keto pancakes for a bright, low-carb breakfast.

Tips for Perfect Keto Cranberry Sauce

Adjusting Sweetness

Taste is personal! Feel free to adjust the amount of Swerve to your liking. Add more for a sweeter sauce, or a little less if you prefer it tarter. Always taste as you go.

Texture Preferences

For a chunky sauce, simply cook as directed, leaving the berries mostly intact. If you prefer a smoother sauce, use a potato masher or an immersion blender directly in the pot to break down the berries further.

Make Ahead and Storage

This sauce is excellent for meal prep! Make it a day or two before your holiday gathering and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen beautifully. It keeps well for up to a week in the fridge.

Frozen Cranberries Work Too

Don’t have fresh? Frozen cranberries are a perfect substitute. There’s no need to thaw them; just add them directly to the pot and increase cooking time by a few minutes if needed.

Final Thoughts

Making your own keto cranberry sauce is an incredibly simple way to bring a beloved holiday tradition to your table without compromising your health goals. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll create a vibrant, tangy, and naturally sweet sauce that complements any festive meal. It’s proof that delicious, healthy eating and holiday celebration can go hand-in-hand.