Apple and Spice Cranberry Sauce

Transform your holiday table with a flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Apple and Spice Cranberry Sauce blends the tangy burst of cranberries with the sweet warmth of spiced apples. This delightful recipe is easy to prepare and sure to become a cherished tradition for years to come.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cranberry sauce isn’t just a side dish; it’s a symphony of flavors. The tartness of cranberries meets the sweetness of apples and the cozy aroma of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. It’s versatile enough to pair with turkey, ham, or even as a topping for desserts and breakfast items like pancakes or yogurt.
Ingredients
- 1 (12-ounce) bag of fresh cranberries
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- 1/2 cup water
- 3/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for a sweet depth of flavor)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional, for added brightness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the cranberries thoroughly and set them aside. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes.
- Combine Liquids and Spices: In a medium saucepan, mix the orange juice, water, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Stir until the sugar begins to dissolve.
- Cook the Apples: Add the diced apples to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
- Add Cranberries: Stir in the cranberries and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes. You’ll hear the cranberries popping as they cook.
- Finish the Sauce: Once the cranberries have softened and the mixture has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest, if using.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before serving. It will thicken further as it cools.
Tips for Success
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce midway and adjust the sugar to your liking.
- Texture Variations: For a smoother sauce, blend it lightly with an immersion blender. For a chunkier texture, mash it lightly with a fork.
- Make Ahead: This sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Serving Ideas
- Serve alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or ham.
- Use as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
- Dollop over pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal for a festive breakfast.
- Pair with creamy cheeses on a charcuterie board.
Apple and Spice Cranberry Sauce adds a vibrant, flavorful twist to your holiday menu. Its balance of tart, sweet, and spiced notes makes it a standout addition to any meal. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special dinner, this sauce is guaranteed to impress your guests and elevate your dining experience.
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