Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce with tart fresh cranberries and a generous splash of orange liqueur brings a festive twist on traditional cranberry sauce to the holiday table.
Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Thanksgiving Week is upon us, friends! Are you ready?
For me, Thanksgiving dinner prep starts on the Tuesday before, and the first order of business is always cranberry sauce. I put on my holiday apron, turn on my favorite Christmas music, and get the cranberries popping. It’s my go-to way to kick off Thanksgiving cooking.
This is the homemade cranberry sauce recipe I’ve made every year for the last five Thanksgivings, and I’m sticking with it again this year—why change a good thing? I like this recipe because it delivers the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and citrusy flavors. A gourmet cranberry sauce in just a few simple steps.
Pro tip: While you can serve this sauce the same day, letting it sit in the fridge for a day or two really helps the flavors meld together.
(For guests who prefer to skip the alcohol, my Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce is a great alternative.)
Happy Thanksgiving!
Ingredients for Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need. Exact amounts are listed in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Granulated Sugar: White sugar is ideal for balancing the tartness of the cranberries, but for a deeper, caramel-like flavor, you could swap in brown sugar.
Orange Juice: Fresh orange juice enhances the sauce with a bright, natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cranberries.
Grand Marnier: This orange liqueur adds a rich, citrusy depth that elevates the sauce beyond the usual cranberry fare.
Fresh Cranberries: Whole cranberries are essential for the best texture and flavor. Canned cranberry sauce just won’t give you the same vibrant, fresh taste.
How to Make Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce
STEP ONE: Combine the ingredients. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, orange juice, and liqueur. Stir frequently until the sugar is dissolved.
STEP TWO: Add the cranberries. Cook at a gentle boil, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries pop open.
STEP THREE: Let the sauce cool. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
STEP FOUR: Chill the sauce. Pour the sauce into a serving bowl and refrigerate overnight. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
STEP FIVE: Serve and enjoy. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.
Optional Add-Ins
Want to customize this easy homemade cranberry sauce? Try adding:
- Orange Zest – Stir in some freshly grated zest for extra citrus flavor.
- Cinnamon Stick – Add one while cooking for a warm, spiced note.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just add them straight from the freezer; no need to thaw first
Can I make this sauce without alcohol? Absolutely! If you prefer not to use alcohol, simply replace the Grand Marnier with an equal amount of additional orange juice.
Storage
- Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Spread it on sandwiches or use it to make Cranberry Streusel Bars!
More Holiday Recipes You’ll Love!
- Cranberry Salsa
- Garlic Green Beans
- Cream Cheese and Olive Stuffed Celery
- Orange Cranberry Sauce
- Stovetop Brussels Sprouts
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Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup Grand Marnier orange liqueur
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries by weight
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, orange juice, and liqueur. Stir frequently until the sugar is dissolved.
- Cook at a gentle boil, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries pop open.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Pour the sauce into a serving bowl and refrigerate overnight. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
- Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition
This post was updated on October 23, 2025.
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