As the weather cools and the holiday season approaches, many of us start to think about our favorite Thanksgiving traditions – from turkey to stuffing to (of course) cranberries! There’s nothing like a deliciously tart and tangy cranberry sauce or compote to add some festive flair to your holiday feast. But why settle for just one classic recipe when you could try something new and exciting this year?
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of the most mouthwatering, show-stopping, and easy-to-make Thanksgiving cranberries recipes out there – from savory sauces to sweet treats and everything in between. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, we’ve got you covered with ideas that are sure to impress your family and friends.
So grab a cup of hot cider, put on your favorite holiday tunes, and get ready to indulge in the flavors of the season!
Classic Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
This beloved condiment is a staple of holiday gatherings, adding a tangy and flavorful touch to your festive feast. With the brightness of orange zest, this cranberry sauce is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 2 tablespoons grated orange zest
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water.
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. Stir in the grated orange zest.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Spiced Cranberry Apple Butter
As the seasons change, warm up with this deliciously spiced cranberry apple butter that’s perfect for topping toast, using as a filling, or gifting to friends and family. This slow cooker recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith work well)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider or juice
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and stir until well combined.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture to desired consistency.
4. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries
Elevate your holiday side dish game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts with the tanginess of cranberries and a hint of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for an extra kick
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and cranberries.
5. After 15 minutes of roasting, remove Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with the maple-cranberry mixture.
6. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until cranberries are tender and syrup is bubbly.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional cranberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Brie with Cranberry Compote and Walnuts
Elevate your party or gathering with this elegant and flavorful combination of creamy brie, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. This simple yet impressive recipe is sure to delight your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
– 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons of orange juice
– 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon of honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
3. Roll out the brie wheel to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the warm cranberry compote over the brie, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts and drizzle with honey over the cranberries.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cranberry Pecan Stuffing with Herbs
Elevate your holiday meals with this flavorful and aromatic stuffing recipe, perfect for the centerpiece of your turkey or as a side dish. The combination of tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and fragrant herbs will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried sage
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. In a large bowl, combine the bread, cranberries, pecans, melted butter, sautéed onion and garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
White Chocolate Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
A sweet and tangy twist on classic oatmeal cookies, these treats combine the crunch of rolled oats with the brightness of dried cranberries and the creaminess of white chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in white chocolate chips and cranberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional roasted turkey breast, this recipe is perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the cranberry glaze all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey breast.
6. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Rosemary Cranberry Cocktail Meatballs
Elevate your party game with these savory and tangy meatballs infused with the aroma of rosemary and the sweetness of cranberries. Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, combine cranberry sauce and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.
6. Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the cranberry mixture to coat.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the meatballs and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Orange Bread
Savor the flavors of fall with this moist and delicious homemade cranberry orange bread, perfect for snacking or serving at your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine butter, egg, heavy cream, cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cranberries and Pecans
This sweet and savory side dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the tanginess of cranberries and the crunch of pecans. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a flavorful addition to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries and chopped pecans.
5. After sweet potatoes have roasted for 15 minutes, add the cranberry-pecan mixture to the baking sheet.
6. Continue roasting for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cranberries are caramelized.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes.
Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy dip that combines the tartness of cranberries with the creaminess of cream cheese. Perfect for game day gatherings or holiday parties!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh jalapeños (seeded)
– 1/2 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, jalapeños, cranberry sauce, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
3. Mix until smooth, adjusting seasoning as needed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until warm and lightly set.
6. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Cranberry Mulled Wine
Warm up with this festive and flavorful mulled wine recipe, perfect for the holiday season. This spiced cranberry twist adds a tangy and fruity dimension to the classic mulled wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the cranberries have popped.
4. Add the sliced orange and lemon to the pot and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
5. If desired, add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these crunchy, flavorful biscotti infused with the sweetness of cranberries and the nuttiness of pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cranberries, pistachios, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together egg, orange zest, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces and shape each into a log about 12 inches long.
6. Place logs on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between them.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Rice Salad with Dried Cranberries and Almonds
This hearty salad combines nutty wild rice with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy almonds, and a hint of tangy citrus. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and orange juice; toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on serving size)
Cranberry Pear Galette with Cinnamon
This rustic galette is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors, featuring fresh cranberries, juicy pears, and warm cinnamon. It’s an easy and elegant dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 cup fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange pear slices in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle cranberries and sugar over the pears.
5. Fold edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush pastry with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Savory Cranberry Onion Jam
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory jam, perfect for spreading on crackers or using as a topping for meats and cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, onions, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil (about 10 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cranberry Ginger Sparkler Mocktail
As the seasons change, this refreshing mocktail is the perfect way to celebrate. With a hint of spice and tartness from cranberries, it’s a delightful alternative to traditional holiday drinks.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1/4 cup fresh ginger juice (or 2 teaspoons ground ginger)
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Sliced lime and/or rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice and ginger juice (or ground ginger). Stir to combine.
2. Add honey, if using, and stir until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Just before serving, pour in sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed.
6. Serve over ice in tall glasses and garnish with sliced lime and/or rosemary.
Cooking Time: None
Leftover Turkey Cranberry Panini
Transform your leftover turkey into a delicious panini sandwich with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Challah work well)
– 2 oz leftover turkey breast, sliced
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one slice of bread with cranberry sauce, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with sliced turkey breast, crumbled blue cheese (if using), and a drizzle of honey.
4. Place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Cranberry Walnut Pumpkin Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the warmth of pumpkin with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a cozy fall gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup cranberries, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cranberries and walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Easy Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Easy Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Add a touch of festive flair to your holiday gatherings with this deliciously easy cheese ball recipe. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or snack time, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine cream cheese, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese and mix until smooth.
4. Wrap mixture in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
5. When ready to serve, remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake delight.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your Thanksgiving feast with these 20 festive cranberries recipes! From classic cranberry sauce with orange zest to maple roasted Brussels sprouts and baked brie with cranberry compote, there’s something for everyone. Try spiced cranberry apple butter or cranberry glazed turkey breast for a flavorful twist. Don’t miss the sweet treats like white chocolate cranberry oatmeal cookies and cranberry pear galette. And for a unique touch, try cranberry ginger sparkler mocktail or rosemary cranberry cocktail meatballs. Whatever you choose, your guests are sure to be delighted!
