Begin by washing your cranberries thoroughly if they are fresh. Inspect them for any blemished ones and set aside the good ones. If you’re using frozen berries, you can skip this step. Next, peel and core your apples. I like to use a mix of sweet and tart apples for that fantastic flavor combination.

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the unsalted butter. Watch it closely as it melts, letting it bubble gently. The aroma? Absolutely divine! You might find yourself daydreaming about all the savory dishes this sauce will accompany.

Once the butter has melted, throw in the cranberries. Stir them around, allowing them to soak up that buttery goodness. You’ll hear delightful pops as they begin to cook down. This is where the magic starts to happen!

Next, toss in your diced apples. This not only adds texture but also brings in a natural sweetness. Stir everything together so it gets fully combined. Let them cook for about 5 minutes.

Now, it’s time to add the maple syrup, lemon zest, thyme, cinnamon, and the spiced rum. The combination of these ingredients is transformative. Stir gently as the mixture thickens. You’ll enjoy a tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes. Keep stirring every now and then, ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom. You’ll want the cranberries to burst and soften while the sauce thickens. Once you achieve a desirable consistency, you know you’re almost there.

Here comes the fun part! Give your sauce a taste. If you want it sweeter, add more maple syrup. Prefer it a bit tangier? A squeeze of lemon juice can go a long way.

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the sauce cool slightly before transferring it to a serving bowl. Don’t worry if it looks thick; it will loosen up as it cools.