Here’s what I think to myself, very often: I loved cranberries before cranberries were cool. In fact, cranberries are not only one of my favorite foods, I consider them The Very Best Part of the Holiday Meal.

Dessert or cranberries? You know which one I’m going for.

Thanksgiving morning I came upon this recipe on one of my favorite blogs, Design Sponge. I was thrilled to have all the ingredients on hand and quickly whipped it together. And may I say: Oh my.

You must consider adding this to your Christmas feast. Thank you, Design Sponge. Thank you, Stephanie Dietz!

Cranberry Bourbon Sauce ala Stephanie Dietz

Ingredients

• 4 cups cranberries (local, if possible!)
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 cup cane sugar
• 1/4 cup Maker’s Mark (or the bourbon of your choice)
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/4 teaspoon apple pie spice

Preparation

Combine cranberries and sugars in a cast-iron Dutch oven over medium heat on your stove.

Mix well and often as the sugar starts to melt for about 2 to 3 minutes. Add other ingredients.

Don’t forget to zest the orange. (I feel like a Kitchen Ninja when I zest.)

Stir often, for about 20 minutes.

Cook until you reach the desired consistency.

Oh my goodness, give it a taste. Looks pretty, tastes divine.

30 Days of Joy