Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this cranberry apple sauce is a fast and fuss-free recipe that’s perfect for busy holiday preparations.
- Festive Flavor: The tartness of fresh cranberries combined with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon creates a perfect balance of flavors that scream holiday cheer.
- Versatile: This sauce pairs beautifully with roast meats like turkey or chicken, and it can also be served as a tangy topping for leftovers or even on its own.
- Homemade Goodness: Forget the canned versions—this fresh, homemade sauce has a superior taste and texture that will elevate any meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 200g granulated sugar
- 180ml water
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 340g fresh cranberries, picked over
- 150g tart apples, peeled and diced
Directions
- In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the cranberries and diced apples to the pan.
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the cranberries begin to pop and the sauce thickens slightly, remove the pan from the heat.
- Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature, or refrigerate it for later use. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover cranberry apple sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: You can enjoy it cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries will work just as well. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking for even results.
2. What kind of apples should I use for this recipe?
Tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal for this recipe as they provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cranberries. However, you can experiment with other varieties based on your preference.
3. Can I make this cranberry apple sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day or two in advance. The flavors will actually improve as they meld together.
4. Can I add other spices to this recipe?
Feel free to get creative! Nutmeg, cloves, or allspice could make great additions for extra warmth and complexity.
5. How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, continue to simmer it a little longer to allow more liquid to evaporate.
6. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, brown sugar will add a deeper, richer flavor to the sauce, though it will slightly alter the color.
7. Is this cranberry apple sauce suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes, this recipe is both vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
8. Can I freeze this cranberry apple sauce?
Yes, you can freeze this sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating or serving.
9. How do I know when the sauce is done cooking?
The sauce is done when the cranberries begin to pop, and it has thickened slightly. You can also taste it to see if it’s the right level of sweetness or tartness for you.
10. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar to your taste. If you like a more tart sauce, simply cut down on the sugar, but be sure to taste as you go.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Apple Sauce is the perfect way to elevate any holiday meal with minimal effort. With its balance of tart and sweet flavors, combined with the warmth of cinnamon, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it with a roast or enjoying it as a festive treat, it’s a delightful addition to any dish. Enjoy!
Cranberry Apple Sauce Recipe
This Cranberry Apple Sauce is a quick and festive side dish that’s perfect for the holiday season. A combination of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and warm cinnamon comes together in under 20 minutes, offering a delicious accompaniment to roast meats or a flavorful topping for leftovers.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
200g granulated sugar
180ml water
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
340g fresh cranberries, picked over
150g tart apples, peeled and diced
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the cranberries and diced apples to the pan.
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the cranberries begin to pop and the sauce thickens slightly, remove the pan from the heat.
- Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature, or refrigerate it for later use. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For a thicker sauce, continue to simmer it longer to allow more liquid to evaporate.
Frozen cranberries work as well, but make sure to thaw them before cooking.
If you prefer a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
For added complexity, consider experimenting with spices like nutmeg, cloves, or allspice.
This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
