The holiday season is just around the corner, and with it comes a plethora of delicious recipes to try. One ingredient that can elevate many dishes from ordinary to extraordinary is canned cranberries. Not only do they add a pop of color and flavor to your creations, but they’re also incredibly easy to work with. In this article, we’ll explore 20 festive canned cranberry recipes that are perfect for the holidays.
From sweet treats like Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake and Cranberry White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies, to savory dishes like Cranberry Glazed Pork Loin and Cranberry BBQ Meatballs, there’s something for everyone on this list. We’ll also be sharing some unique twists on classic recipes, such as Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Spread and Cranberry Maple Brussels Sprouts.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or a simple snack to serve at your holiday gathering, we’ve got you covered with these delicious canned cranberry recipes.
Cranberry Glazed Pork Loin
A sweet and tangy twist on a classic pork loin dish, this Cranberry Glazed Pork Loon is perfect for the holiday season. The cranberries add a pop of color and flavor to the rich, tender meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) pork loin
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, honey, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the cranberries have popped and the glaze has thickened.
4. Brush the glaze all over the pork loin, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Place the pork loin in a roasting pan and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Cranberry Orange Bread with Walnuts
This moist and flavorful bread combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange, all wrapped up in a crunchy walnut package.
Ingredients:
– 2 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
– 1/4 cup orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice. Mix until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Cranberry Brie Bites with Puff Pastry
These sweet and savory bites are perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. Flaky puff pastry filled with creamy brie cheese, tangy cranberries, and fresh thyme will be a hit at any party.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Spread brie cheese evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Mix cranberries, sugar, honey, and thyme in a bowl. Spoon this mixture over the cheese.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a triangle or square shape. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) for golden brown color.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until puff pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry BBQ Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. These Cranberry BBQ Meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, packed with cranberries and a tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture 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 meatballs are baking, heat BBQ sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and add to the warmed BBQ sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to coat evenly.
Cooking Time: 23-25 minutes
Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
A sweet and tangy dip perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the granulated sugar and mix until combined.
3. Stir in the cranberry sauce, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the heavy cream, mixing until the desired consistency is reached (thicker or thinner).
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is served chilled.
Cranberry Almond Granola Bars
These chewy bars are packed with the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, crunchy texture, and nutritious ingredients. They’re perfect for a quick energy boost or as a healthy snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°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, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is coated evenly.
5. Fold in dried cranberries.
6. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Pecan Stuffing
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory stuffing, infused with the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the melted butter, chopped cranberries, and pecans to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the bread cubes, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake
Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe!
This cheesecake combines the flavors of sweet cranberries and creamy cheesecake, topped with a swirl of tangy cranberry sauce. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add granulated sugar. Pour batter over crust.
5. Dollop cranberry sauce on top of cheesecake in a zig-zag pattern.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
8. Garnish with fresh cranberries.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Sweet Potato Casserole
This casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful and unique side dish perfect for holidays or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated 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, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the warmth of oatmeal with the sweetness of white chocolate and the tartness of cranberries, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in white chocolate chips and cranberries.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Spread
A sweet and spicy twist on traditional cream cheese spreads, this recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the heat of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
3. Add cranberries, jalapeños, and orange zest; stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekins.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: 1 cup spread (enough for 8-10 servings)
Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of walnuts for a delightful and healthy snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, cranberries, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve on lettuce leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cranberry Apple Crisp
Cranberry Apple Crisp Recipe
Warm up with a sweet and tangy dessert that combines the flavors of crisp apples and tart cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix 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 chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Add the butter to the oat mixture and mix until crumbly.
6. Top the apple mixture with the oat topping, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cranberry Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken
A sweet and tangy twist on classic roasted chicken, this recipe combines the flavors of cranberries, honey, and mustard for a deliciously unique dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberry sauce, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush the cranberry-honey-mustard mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti
Tart cranberries and crunchy pistachios add a delightful twist to traditional biscotti, perfect for dipping in your favorite coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly. Beat in eggs until well combined.
4. Stir in cranberries and pistachios.
5. Divide dough into 2 portions. Shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long.
6. Place logs on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between them.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Slice into 1/2-inch thick slices.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Maple Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your vegetable game with this sweet and tangy twist on classic roasted Brussels sprouts. This recipe combines the natural bitterness of the sprouts with the sweetness of cranberries and maple syrup for a delightful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and toss with cranberries and maple syrup.
5. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cranberries are popped and the sprouts are coated in the sweet and tangy glaze.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cranberry Rum Cake
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional rum cake, this recipe combines the flavors of cranberries and dark rum to create a moist and delicious dessert perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup dark rum
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
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, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Stir in dark rum, cranberries, salt, and egg until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Sage Turkey Burgers
Elevate your backyard BBQ with these flavorful and refreshing cranberry sage turkey burgers. The sweetness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the earthy notes of sage, making this a unique and delicious twist on traditional turkey burgers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and your favorite toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, cranberries, sage, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4 patties.
4. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes total
Cranberry Coconut Energy Balls
These bite-sized energy balls combine the sweetness of cranberries with the creaminess of coconut, making for a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine oats, cranberries, and coconut.
2. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
4. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are no-bake, making them perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Cranberry Dijon Roasted Salmon
Elevate your salmon dish with the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberries and Dijon mustard.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the cranberry mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delicious and festive canned cranberry recipes! From savory dishes like Cranberry Glazed Pork Loin and Cranberry BBQ Meatballs, to sweet treats like Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake and Cranberry Rum Cake, there’s something for everyone. Plus, find creative ways to use cranberries in breakfast items like Cranberry Orange Bread with Walnuts and snacks like Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip. With these 20 recipes, you’ll be sure to make this holiday season one to remember.