Basic whole cranberry sauce This is the very basic recipe for whole berry homemade cranberry sauce or compote. From this one recipe many variations can be made adding other fruits, nuts or even rum. Check more of my recipes for cranberry compotes. The Very Berry Basic Whole Berry Cranberry Compote<a The Very Berry Basic Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce 6 servings + Ingredients 1 cup water 1 cup sugar 14 oz fresh whole cranberries (or whole frozen berries not defrosted) Preparation Into a saucepan bring water and sugar to a boil. Add the cranberries and simmer till the berries start popping and liquid thickens. The liquid will thicken even more while cooling. Store in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator until you need to serve.