This yummy cranberry apple sauce is bright and fruity, perfect for your holiday table. With tart cranberries and sweet apples, it brings a delightful balance to your meal!
Making it is a breeze! I just simmer the fruits with a bit of sugar and let the magic happen. It’s a hit every time, and it’s great on everything from turkey to pancakes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are essential for that tart flavor. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries work well too. Just remember to thaw and rinse them before use.
Apples: Using one red apple (like Fuji or Gala) and one green apple (like Granny Smith) gives a great balance of sweetness and tartness. Feel free to mix it up with your favorite varieties!
Sugar: Adjust the sugar to your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try substituting with honey or maple syrup, though you’ll need to adjust the liquid slightly in the recipe.
Lemon Juice: This adds brightness. If you’re out of lemon juice, a splash of apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch!
How Do You Get the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
Getting the right thickness for your cranberry apple sauce is all about cooking time. After the initial simmer, check the consistency. If you prefer it thicker, let it simmer a bit longer. Stirring helps break down the fruit and create a smoother sauce.
- Start by cooking until the cranberries burst, usually about 10-15 minutes.
- After adding lemon juice and cinnamon, let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- As it cools, the sauce will thicken, so don’t worry if it seems a bit loose!
How to Make Cranberry Apple Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fruit and Liquid:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 2 medium apples (1 red apple and 1 green apple), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Sugar and Spice:
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprig for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying your cranberry apple sauce in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Your Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, diced apples, sugar, and water. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together nicely.
2. Bring to a Boil:
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. You’ll see the cranberries beginning to pop! Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to let it simmer.
3. Simmer the Mixture:
Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cranberries burst and the apples become tender. You want those delicious flavors to blend!
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Add the lemon juice and, if you like, the ground cinnamon. Stir well to combine all the flavors together.
5. Let It Thicken:
Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes. As it cools, the sauce will thicken up even more, creating that lovely texture you want!
6. Cool and Serve:
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool slightly. Once it has cooled, transfer it to a serving bowl. If you like, garnish with a fresh thyme sprig and a few whole cranberries for that extra touch.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your cranberry apple sauce warm or chilled. It’s perfect as a vibrant side for turkey, chicken, or even pancakes! Enjoy this delightful flavor explosion!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries are a great alternative! Just make sure to thaw and rinse them before using. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a little longer to soften.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make cranberry apple sauce up to two days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a gentle stir before serving.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add more sugar to taste. Start with a tablespoon at a time, stirring well and tasting until it reaches your desired sweetness.
What Can I Serve This Sauce With?
This cranberry apple sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, and pork. It also makes a delightful topping for pancakes, waffles, or yogurt!
