Are you looking for a burst of flavor and color to add to your holiday menu or everyday meals? Look no further than fresh cranberries! These tart and tangy fruits are a staple during the winter months, and can be used in a variety of delicious recipes. From sweet treats like muffins and cookies, to savory dishes like sauces and salads, cranberries bring a pop of flavor and nutrition to any meal.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 simple and easy-to-make recipes that showcase the versatility of fresh cranberries. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a busy parent looking for quick and easy meals, these recipes are sure to please. So grab your bag of fresh cranberries and let’s get cooking!
Fresh Cranberry Orange Muffins
Brighten up your morning with these deliciously moist and flavorful muffins, packed with the sweetness of cranberries and the tanginess of orange zest. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 orange, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Optional: confectioners’ sugar for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, cranberries, and orange zest/juice.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Easy Cranberry Apple Crisp
A deliciously simple dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the tanginess of cranberries, topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar streusel. Perfect for a quick and satisfying treat!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples and cranberries.
3. Add granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg; toss until coated.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
6. Top apple mixture with oat streusel and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
This sweet and tangy sauce is perfect for topping your favorite dishes, from turkey and stuffing to yogurt and oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, orange zest, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups of sauce
Quick Cranberry Brie Bites
Perfect for holiday gatherings or a quick snack, these bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tartness of fresh cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon orange marmalade
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 package of crackers or baguette slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries, orange marmalade, and honey.
3. Place the softened brie cheese on a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured surface.
4. Spoon the cranberry mixture onto the brie, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle thyme leaves over the cranberries.
6. Cut the brie into small squares or use a cookie cutter to create shapes.
7. Place the brie bites on crackers or baguette slices and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly softened.
Simple Cranberry Walnut Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of walnuts, making it perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cranberries, and walnuts.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Squeeze the apple cider vinegar over the salad and toss again.
4. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Baked Cranberry Oatmeal
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of baked cranberry oatmeal, packed with sweet and tangy flavors. This recipe is perfect for a chilly morning or a cozy weekend breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt, egg, and melted butter. Stir in cranberries and vanilla extract.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
5. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, nuts, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the tartness of cranberries with the creaminess of white chocolate chips, creating a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in cranberries and white chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Cranberry Glazed Chicken
Easy Cranberry Glazed Chicken Recipe
Summary: Sweet and tangy cranberries bring a burst of flavor to this effortless chicken dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or holiday gathering!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree cranberries, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of the olive oil until smooth.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush both sides with the remaining olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Spoon the cranberry glaze over the chicken, making sure each breast is well-coated.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
One-Pot Cranberry Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the sweetness of cranberries with the comfort of rice, all in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onions. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the water, cranberries, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
6. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fresh Cranberry Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a refreshing and nutritious bowl filled with the flavors of autumn! This cranberry smoothie bowl is perfect for a healthy breakfast or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Toppings: granola, sliced almonds, shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine cranberries, banana, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Top with your desired toppings, such as granola, sliced almonds, or shredded coconut.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Simple Cranberry Pecan Bread
Start your day with a deliciously moist and flavorful loaf that combines the sweetness of cranberries and pecans. This Simple Cranberry Pecan Bread recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or as a snack any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, cranberries, and pecans. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the egg and orange zest (if using) to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Spinach Salad with Feta
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, featuring the sweetness of cranberries, the earthiness of spinach, and the tanginess of feta.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and cranberries.
2. Crumble feta cheese over the top of the salad.
3. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the salad, if using.
4. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Cranberry BBQ Meatballs
Easy Cranberry BBQ Meatballs: Sweet and tangy meet savory in this twist on classic meatballs!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each meatball.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork Loin
Treat your family to a tender and flavorful pork loin dish infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin roast
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine cranberries, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and thyme.
3. Place the pork loin in the slow cooker, fat side up.
4. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 8-10 hours
– High: 4-6 hours
Fresh Cranberry Salsa with Cilantro
This refreshing salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip. The combination of tangy cranberries, fresh cilantro, and spicy lime juice will have you hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cranberries, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice.
2. Stir in honey until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time), 30 minutes (chilling time)
Quick Cranberry Yogurt Parfait
Kickstart your day with a refreshing and healthy parfait that combines the tanginess of yogurt with the sweetness of cranberries. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a busy morning or as a snack any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons granola
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt, cranberries, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Spoon the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with granola and drizzle with honey.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Simple Cranberry Almond Granola
Add a sweet and crunchy touch to your morning oatmeal or snack time with this easy-to-make granola recipe, featuring the perfect blend of cranberries and almonds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds and walnuts)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey and vegetable oil. Pour over oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in dried cranberries and vanilla extract.
5. Spread granola mixture onto prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into chunks.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Cranberry Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a sweet and tangy twist on traditional French toast. This recipe fills thick slices of bread with a cranberry-orange filling, then cooks them to a golden brown perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah or brioche bread
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and sugar until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place a spoonful of cranberry-orange filling (mix cranberries with orange marmalade) onto one half of each bread slice.
5. Fold the other half of the bread over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes per 4 slices.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the tart and tangy flavors of fresh cranberries! This collection of 18 simple and easy recipes showcases the versatility of this seasonal ingredient. From sweet treats like Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies and Baked Cranberry Oatmeal, to savory dishes like Easy Cranberry Glazed Chicken and Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork Loin, there’s something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss the healthy options like Simple Cranberry Walnut Salad and Fresh Cranberry Smoothie Bowl. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and inspire your culinary creativity.
