Are you looking for creative ways to use canned cranberries in your cooking and baking? Look no further! Canned cranberries are a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. They’re packed with flavor, easy to find, and perfect for adding a pop of color and tanginess to your recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that feature canned cranberries as the star ingredient. From savory meats and sides to sweet treats and snacks, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dessert, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with canned cranberries.
So go ahead, crack open that can of cranberries, and let the delicious possibilities begin!
Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of cranberries and orange to create a glaze that’s perfect for chicken. The tangy sweetness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the citrusy zest of the orange, making this dish a great alternative to traditional BBQ or grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree cranberries, marmalade, honey, soy sauce, and orange zest until smooth.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Cranberry BBQ Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this unique blend of flavors, combining the warmth of spices with the tartness of cranberries and the richness of BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with 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, combine cranberry sauce and BBQ sauce in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with the cranberry-BBQ mixture.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Elevate your snack game with this delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip, perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday indulgence. This creamy spread combines the tartness of cranberries with the richness of cream cheese, making it a delicious accompaniment to crackers, fruit, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
3. Add dried cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or ramekin.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Glaze
A delicious and flavorful side dish perfect for the holidays or any special occasion, these roasted sweet potatoes are elevated by a tangy cranberry glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Roast the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, mix together the sugar, orange juice, and cranberry sauce in a small bowl.
5. After the sweet potatoes have roasted for 30 minutes, brush them with the cranberry glaze and continue to roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Cranberry Walnut Bread Pudding
This bread pudding combines the warmth of cinnamon with the tanginess of cranberries and the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a cozy dessert or breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, and eggs.
3. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon; stir until combined.
4. Add bread cubes, cranberries, and walnuts; toss until bread is evenly coated.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry Balsamic Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and tangy pork tenderloin recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or special occasion. This dish combines the rich flavor of balsamic glaze with the tartness of cranberries, creating a harmonious balance that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, balsamic glaze, and garlic.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Brush the cranberry-balsamic mixture evenly over the pork tenderloin.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Almond Granola Bars
These chewy granola bars combine the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of almonds, perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 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, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, vanilla extract, and dried cranberries. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Pecan Stuffed Mushrooms
Cranberry Pecan Stuffed Mushrooms: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Appetizer
These bite-sized morsels combine the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans, perfect for your next holiday gathering or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as cremini or portobello)
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cranberries, pecans, and brown sugar.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cranberry-pecan mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
4. Dot the top of each mushroom with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cranberry Ginger Glazed Salmon
This recipe combines the bold flavors of cranberries and ginger with the richness of salmon, creating a deliciously balanced dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree cranberries, honey, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Brush the cranberry glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cranberry Apple Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the flavors of cranberries, apples, and pork chops. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup diced Granny Smith apple
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cranberries, apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Lay pork chops flat and make a horizontal incision in each chop to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each pork chop with the cranberry-apple mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed pork chops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Coconut Energy Bites
Recharge with these nutritious bites, perfect for a quick energy boost or as a healthy snack on-the-go. Made with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, cranberries, and coconut.
2. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bites are ready in a snap.
Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Coconut Energy Bites!
Cranberry Sage Stuffing Muffins
Elevate your holiday baking with these flavorful and moist muffins, featuring the perfect blend of sweet cranberries and savory sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
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, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and heavy cream.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in cranberries and sage.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Lime Cheesecake Bars
These Cranberry Lime Cheesecake Bars are a refreshing twist on traditional cheesecakes, featuring the perfect balance of tangy cranberries and sweet lime zest. With a shortbread crust and a creamy filling infused with citrus and berries, these bars are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, cranberry sauce, lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry Rosemary Roasted Turkey Breast
Elevate your holiday table with this flavorful and aromatic turkey breast recipe, perfectly seasoned with cranberries and rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries, olive oil, rosemary, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper.
4. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and spread the cranberry-rosemary mixture evenly over the top.
5. Roast the turkey for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until cooked through, basting every 30 minutes.
6. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 to 2 hours
Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the sweetness of chocolate chips with the tartness of fresh cranberries, making them a perfect addition to your holiday cookie platter.
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 fresh or frozen 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 in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Stir in the dry ingredients, then fold in cranberries and chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cranberry Jalapeño Cornbread
Elevate your holiday gathering with this unique Cranberry Jalapeño Cornbread recipe! The perfect combination of sweet and spicy, this cornbread is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– Honey, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add chopped cranberries and jalapeños to the wet ingredients; stir until combined.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Pistachio Rice Pilaf
This sweet and savory pilaf is perfect for the holiday season, combining the tartness of cranberries with the crunch of pistachios. It’s a simple and impressive side dish that pairs well with roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon honey (for added sweetness)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the water, cranberries, parsley, pistachios, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff with a fork and serve hot. If desired, drizzle with honey for added sweetness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Maple Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sweet and tangy glazed ham recipe. The perfect combination of flavors, this cranberry maple glaze will leave your guests begging for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, orange juice, honey, mustard, vinegar, and garlic. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cranberries and thyme.
5. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up. Score the surface in a diamond pattern.
6. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
7. Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes more.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Chia Seed Pudding
This refreshing dessert is perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack option during the holiday season. The combination of tangy cranberries and nutty chia seeds creates a delightful texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chia seeds and soak them in 1 cup of water for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a blender, mix together Greek yogurt, sugar, and honey until smooth.
3. Add the soaked chia seeds to the mixture and blend until well combined.
4. Stir in chopped cranberries and salt.
5. Refrigerate the pudding for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow it to set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cranberries if desired.
Cooking Time: None required (refrigeration time only)
Cranberry Pecan Tartlets
These bite-sized tartlets combine the sweetness of caramelized pecans with the tanginess of fresh cranberries, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
– Salt 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 a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
4. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, brown sugar, and chopped pecans.
5. Place a spoonful of the pecan mixture onto one half of each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
6. Top with cranberries, orange zest, and a drizzle of orange juice.
7. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
8. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and sprinkle with sugar.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Summary
Get creative with canned cranberries and discover a world of flavors! From savory to sweet, these 20 recipes showcase the versatility of this versatile ingredient. Enjoy Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken, Spiced Cranberry BBQ Meatballs, or Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip for a snack or appetizer. Or try Cranberry Walnut Bread Pudding, Cranberry Balsamic Pork Tenderloin, or Cranberry Almond Granola Bars for a sweet treat. With a range of options from main courses to desserts, you’ll find the perfect recipe to get your holiday season started!
Leave a Reply