Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Cranberry Chia Sauce (No Refined Sugar!)

Recipes
Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Cranberry Chia Sauce (No Refined Sugar!)

Ditch the canned cranberry sauce this holiday season! Most store-bought options are loaded with sugar, BPA, and additives, turning a classic Thanksgiving side into a blood sugar spike waiting to happen. Instead, try this homemade sugar-free cranberry chia sauce, it’s easy, fiber-packed, and ready in just minutes.

If you’re looking for a healthier Thanksgiving side that’s delicious and can be made ahead, this Fab Four–friendly cranberry sauce is a perfect choice. Cranberries are naturally rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and polyphenols, nutrients that support both immune and metabolic health.

Why You’ll Love This Healthier Cranberry Sauce

The problem with most traditional cranberry sauces? They often rely on a full cup of sugar, which can cause a quick blood sugar spike (and an inevitable crash). This version skips refined sugar entirely, using raw honey and chia seeds for natural sweetness, added fiber, and the perfect jammy texture.

Here's why it's a winner:

  • Make-ahead friendly: Prep it the day before and refrigerate.
  • No refined sugar: Lightly sweetened with raw honey.
  • Fab Four friendly: Chia seeds add fiber to help support blood sugar balance.
  • Nutrient-rich: Cranberries provide antioxidants, vitamin C, and polyphenols.

It’s bright, flavorful, and ready in just minutes, and it tastes even better the next day!

Tips for the Best Texture

  • For a smoother sauce, lightly mash the cranberries as they cook.
  • For a chunkier texture, leave some berries whole.
  • Add extra chia seeds if you prefer a thicker, jam-like consistency.

Enjoy your homemade, sugar-free cranberry sauce! It’s an easy way to make your holiday table healthier and more vibrant!

Want more tips for enjoying a healthier holiday?  Check out My Guide to a Healthier Thanksgiving here, complete with real life tips and tricks to enjoy your Thanksgiving and feel amazing, too!

  • Prep Time

    5 minutes

  • Total Time

    15 minutes

  • Servings

    4-6

  • Freezer Friendly

    No

Ingredients

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup water
  • Juice of 1 orange
  • 1/3 cup chia seeds
  • Sweetener to taste (optional: honey, monk fruit/allulose blend)
  • Fresh mint and orange zest for garnish

Directions

  1. Add cranberries, water, and orange juice to a medium pot. Heat over medium-high until the cranberries start to pop, about 4 minutes.
  2. Lightly smash the cranberries with a spoon or potato masher for a chunky sauce.
  3. Stir in 1/3 cup chia seeds and let them absorb the liquid and gel, about 2-3 minutes. Add more orange juice or water if the chia seeds are still crunchy.
  4. Try raw honey, a monk fruit/allulose blend, or skip sweetener entirely for a tart, low-sugar option.
  5. Refrigerate until ready to serve, then top with fresh mint and orange zest for a festive touch.