Name: Apple Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces fresh cranberries; 1 large Granny Smith apple (peeled and diced); 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1 cup granulated white sugar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, it’s time to embrace the flavors of fall. One of the quintessential dishes that truly captures the essence of the season is homemade Apple Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce. This vibrant, tangy sauce is not only a delightful accompaniment to your Thanksgiving turkey, but it also serves as a versatile topping for everything from breakfast pancakes to afternoon yogurt. With the perfect balance of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and warm spices, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your holiday repertoire. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to create this scrumptious sauce!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday spread.
Fresh and bright flavors that elevate any dish they accompany.
Versatile enough to be enjoyed not just during the holidays, but all year round.
Customizable with your favorite spices and sweeteners, allowing for personal touches.
Can be made ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on the big day.

The Essentials

One 12-ounce bag (about 3 cups) cranberries – Fresh cranberries are key to achieving that tart flavor.
1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced – The tartness of Granny Smith apples complements the cranberries beautifully.
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice – Adds brightness and a hint of sweetness to the sauce.
1 cup granulated white sugar – Balances the tartness of the cranberries and apples.
1 teaspoon grated ginger – Provides a warm, spicy kick that enhances the sauce.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A classic spice that adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

Essential Tools for Success

Medium saucepan – Perfect for cooking the cranberries and apple mixture.
Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring and combining the ingredients without damaging your cookware.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure your ingredient proportions are just right.
Cutting board and knife – For dicing the apple into perfect pieces.
Storage containers – For storing your sauce in the fridge or freezer.

How to Prepare Apple Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by assembling all your ingredients on the countertop. This helps streamline the cooking process, ensuring you have everything at hand.

Step 2: Rinse the Cranberries

Place the cranberries in a strainer and rinse them under cold water. Discard any that are shriveled or damaged, as these can affect the overall quality of your sauce.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, diced Granny Smith apple, freshly squeezed orange juice, granulated sugar, grated ginger, and ground cinnamon.

Step 4: Cook the Mixture

Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally. The cranberries will begin to pop as they cook, releasing their juices and creating a beautiful sauce.

Step 5: Simmer Until Thickened

Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can mash some of the cranberries with your wooden spoon.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Once your Apple Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Transfer it to your storage container, and it’s ready to be refrigerated.

Ingredient Flex Options

Substitute honey or maple syrup for granulated sugar for a natural sweetener.
Try using different apple varieties, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp, for a unique flavor twist.
Add a pinch of nutmeg for an additional layer of warmth and spice.
Incorporate chopped nuts for added texture and crunch.
For a citrus twist, add the zest of the orange to the mixture.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

Creating your own Apple Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce not only allows you to customize flavors but also eliminates the preservatives and additives found in many store-bought versions. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as this sauce simmers is pure magic! You can make it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re looking for a vibrant, fresh, and tasty sauce, this recipe is the way to go!

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

After your sauce has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to make it further in advance, it can be frozen for up to three months. To rewarm, simply place the desired amount in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches your preferred temperature. This sauce is delicious served warm or cold!

Questions People Ask

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in place of fresh cranberries. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take longer to soften.

What can I serve with Apple Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce?

This sauce pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, and pork. It also makes a delightful topping for pancakes, waffles, yogurt, or even ice cream for a delicious dessert twist!

How do I know when my sauce is done?

Your Apple Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce is done when the cranberries have burst, and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, simply add a splash of water or orange juice to loosen it up.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This sauce can be made up to a week in advance. In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to develop even further, resulting in a more flavorful sauce.

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Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the tips and tricks to create the perfect Apple Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you’ll have a delicious sauce that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this seasonal favorite. Happy cooking!