20 Easy Canned Cranberry Recipes You’ll Love

As the weather cools down and the holiday season approaches, it’s time to get creative with one of our favorite ingredients: canned cranberries! These tart and tangy fruits are a staple in many kitchens during the fall and winter months. From sweet treats like cheesecakes and cookies to savory dishes like meatballs and glazes, canned cranberries add a burst of flavor and color to any recipe.

In this article, we’ll explore 20 easy and delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of canned cranberries. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table, we’ve got you covered. So grab your favorite can of cranberries and let’s get cooking!

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

This sweet and tangy glaze adds a delicious twist to classic chicken breasts, perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake

Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake! This moist and creamy cheesecake is infused with the tartness of cranberries, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– Fresh cranberries for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar; add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crumb mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan; dollop cranberry sauce on top and use a knife to create a swirl pattern.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until center is set.
7. Let cool completely before serving.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

Elevate your game day or party spread with these Cranberry BBQ Meatballs, combining the tanginess of cranberries with the richness of BBQ sauce.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll to coat evenly.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Cranberry Pecan Bread

This moist and flavorful bread combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of pecans, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch. The tangy flavor of cranberries pairs beautifully with the nutty taste of pecans, making this recipe a unique addition to your baking repertoire.

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 large egg
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and cranberries.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in pecans and orange zest (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Elevate your snack game with this sweet and tangy dip perfect for the holiday season!

Ingredients:

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add the cranberries, honey, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dip is set and lightly browned on top.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites: A Sweet and Savory Appetizer

These bite-sized treats combine the creaminess of brie cheese with the tartness of fresh cranberries, perfect for a holiday party or special occasion.

Ingredients:
• 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Place the softened brie cheese in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Sprinkle the cranberries, honey, and thyme over the cheese.
5. Fold the pastry up around the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the tops with a little water and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cranberry Walnut Salad

A refreshing winter salad featuring tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy goat cheese.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toss cranberries with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until cranberries have popped and caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped walnuts.
4. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing to combine.
5. Add roasted cranberries to the salad and toss gently to distribute.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Cranberry Stuffed Pork Loin

– 1 (1.5-2 pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries, brown sugar, rosemary, and garlic.
3. Butterfly the pork loin by cutting it horizontally through the center, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff the cranberry mixture evenly throughout the pork loin.
5. Close the pork loin and secure with kitchen twine if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the pork loin.
8. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
9. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Cranberry Almond Granola Bars

These chewy bars combine the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of almonds, making them a perfect snack for any time of day. With just 10 minutes of preparation and 20 minutes of baking, you’ll have a delicious batch of homemade granola bars in no time!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, almonds, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, dried cranberries, salt, and vanilla extract. Pour mixture over oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cranberry Glazed Salmon

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this sweet and tangy cranberry glazed salmon recipe. Perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cranberries, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the cranberry glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed salmon.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Cranberry Apple Crisp

This sweet and tangy dessert combines the flavors of autumn – tender apples, tart cranberries, and a crunchy oat topping. Perfect for a cozy evening or a family gathering.

Ingredients:

– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until well combined.
3. Transfer the apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Spread the oat topping evenly over the apple mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Perfect for the holiday season, these Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies combine the sweetness of chocolate with the tartness of cranberries. The result is a deliciously balanced cookie that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup semi-sweet 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. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in flour mixture, cranberries, and chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Cranberry Sweet Potato Casserole

This sweet and tangy casserole is a perfect blend of fall flavors, combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tartness of cranberries.

Ingredients:

– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in heavy cream and melted butter; stir until sweet potato mixture is smooth.
5. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cranberries if desired.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Cranberry Turkey Panini

Elevate your lunch game with this sweet and savory Cranberry Turkey Panini recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.

Ingredients:

– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or baguette work well)
– 2 tablespoons of cranberry jam
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 ounces of sliced turkey breast
– 1 tablespoon of honey mustard
– Fresh arugula leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one slice of bread with cranberry jam, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with shredded cheese, sliced turkey breast, and a dollop of honey mustard.
4. Place another slice of bread on top and press down gently.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Garnish with fresh arugula leaves and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes

Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Add a sweet and savory twist to your holiday meals with this Cranberry Pecan Stuffing recipe. Perfect for serving alongside roasted meats or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, pecans, cranberries, brown sugar, and chicken broth.
3. Mix until bread is evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Stir in melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Cranberry Vanilla Yogurt Parfait

A refreshing and tangy dessert that combines the sweetness of vanilla yogurt with the tartness of cranberries, all layered on a bed of crunchy granola. Perfect for a quick and easy treat or a healthy breakfast option.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the cranberries and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt into a parfait glass or a tall clear cup.
3. Top the yogurt with the cranberry mixture, followed by half of the granola.
4. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining yogurt, then the cranberry mixture, and finally the rest of the granola.
5. If using walnuts, sprinkle them on top for added crunch.
6. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.

Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Spread

Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy spread that combines the tartness of cranberries with the heat of jalapeños. Perfect for crackers, bread, or veggies, this creamy concoction is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the chopped cranberries, jalapeños, and honey to the cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep only)

Cranberry Oatmeal Muffins

Start your day with a delicious and healthy twist on traditional muffins! These Cranberry Oatmeal Muffins are packed with rolled oats, sweet cranberries, and a hint of cinnamon.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, Greek yogurt, and cranberries. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes

Cranberry Gingerbread Trifle

A show-stopping dessert that combines the warmth of gingerbread with the tartness of cranberries, all layered together for a delightful treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) crumbled gingerbread cake
– 1 cup (120g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled gingerbread and chopped crystallized ginger.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the cranberries and brown sugar.
3. Layer the gingerbread mixture, cranberry mixture, and whipped heavy cream in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
4. Repeat the layering process two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the whipped cream.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including assembly)

Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies

These chewy blondies are infused with the sweet-tart flavor of cranberries and the creamy richness of white chocolate. Perfect for a holiday gathering or a special treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Beat in butter until a dough forms. Stir in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Fold in white chocolate chips and cranberries.
5. Press mixture into prepared pan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 easy and delicious canned cranberry recipes! From savory dishes like Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken and Cranberry BBQ Meatballs, to sweet treats like Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake and Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping dessert, these recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, get creative, and let the festive flavors of cranberries add some holiday cheer to your meals!