Fresh cranberries are simmered with honey, orange juice, and cinnamon. They break down, absorb the sugar, and create the perfect sweet, tart side dish.
Add ¾ cup honey, ½ cup orange juice, and ¼ cup water to a saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir frequently until the sugar dissolves with the liquid.
Add in the 12 oz cranberries and 1 cinnamon stick. Let this simmer over medium-low heat, stirring often or the sugar will burn. Continue stirring and cook until all the cranberries start to "pop" and break down.
Discard the cinnamon stick and let the cranberry sauce cool for 30 minutes on the counter, then transfer to the fridge to chill overnight. Stir just before serving.
Recipe Notes:
Leftover cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Homemade cranberry sauce will be freshest within 3-4 days. Stir before serving.