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With Fall/Autumn just around the corner, one yummy seasonal delight we can expect to enjoy more of, are cranberries.
Their sweet tart-y taste make them the star of many seasonal favorites, like our beloved cranberry sauce served at thanksgiving, as well as a number of yummy desserts, and more.
Not to mention, they’re also a great source of important and healthy nutrients too. All in all, they’ll make a great addition to your plate this season.
If you happen to lay your hands on a couple of fresh cranberries, and are wondering what to make with them, then I’ve got just the perfect list for you.
Here, you’ll find 32 incredible cranberry recipes to enjoy this season. From tasty deserts, to yummy appetizers, sides, mains, and more.
With treats like cranberry cake, cookies, scones, tarts, cheesecakes, pies, and more, to more savory dishes like cranberry meatballs, chicken, salads, cheese balls, and more.
These amazing cranberry recipes are easy to make, super tasty, and will no doubt add a burst of color and flavor to your festive table.
Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday feast or simply looking to spice up your everyday meals, these delicious recipes cater to every occasion and palate.
Let the ruby-red jewels of autumn enliven your kitchen and bring a burst of seasonal cheer to your gatherings.
Let’s get right into it.
Cranberry Nutrition 101
Cranberries, often hailed as “superberries,” are small, vibrant red jewels that pack a nutritional punch.
These tart and tangy berries offer a multitude of health benefits and are particularly renowned for their role in promoting urinary tract health.
Beyond their distinctive flavor, cranberries boast a rich nutritional profile that contributes to overall well-being.
1. Low in Calories, High in Nutrients: A one-cup (about 100 grams) serving of fresh cranberries contains only 46 calories, making them a guilt-free addition to your diet. Despite their low-calorie count, they are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, and manganese.
2. Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries are renowned for their high antioxidant content, particularly flavonoids and polyphenols. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Excellent Source of Vitamin C: Just one cup of cranberries provides over 22% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. This vitamin plays a crucial role in immune function, skin health, and wound healing.
4. Dietary Fiber: Cranberries are a good source of dietary fiber, with about 4.6 grams per cup. Fiber promotes digestive health, aids in weight management, and may lower the risk of heart disease.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The bioactive compounds in cranberries have anti-inflammatory properties, which may benefit conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
6. Low in Sugar: Fresh cranberries have relatively low sugar content compared to other berries, making them an excellent choice for those monitoring their sugar intake.
Incorporating cranberries into your diet is easy, whether you enjoy them fresh, dried, or as part of juices, sauces, and baked goods.
These tiny red berries are not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse, offering a wide array of health benefits that make them a valuable addition to any balanced diet.
How To Choose The Best Cranberries
Whether you’re preparing cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving or adding dried cranberries to your salad, choosing the best cranberries is essential to ensure your dishes turn out delicious.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the art of selecting the freshest cranberries, covering everything from shopping tips to storage techniques.
1. Understanding Cranberry Varieties
Before delving into selection, it’s essential to understand the different types of cranberries:
Fresh Cranberries: These are the plump, firm, and vibrant red cranberries typically available in the fall. They’re perfect for sauces, baking, and salads.
Dried Cranberries: Often referred to as “craisins,” these are fresh cranberries that have been dried and sweetened. They’re perfect for snacking, trail mix, or as a topping for yogurt and oatmeal.
Frozen Cranberries: Available year-round, frozen cranberries are a convenient option for smoothies, baking, and cooking when fresh cranberries are out of season.
2. Seasonality Matters
Fresh cranberries are typically in season from September through December. To ensure you’re getting the freshest berries, plan your cranberry purchases during this time.
Keep in mind that cranberries can be frozen and enjoyed throughout the year, so stock up during the harvest season.
3. Examining Fresh Cranberries
When choosing fresh cranberries, follow these steps to ensure you’re selecting the best quality:
Color: Look for cranberries that are vibrant, deep red in color. While some shades of red are natural, avoid berries that are overly brown or greenish, as these may be underripe or overripe.
Firmness: Gently press the cranberries between your fingers. They should feel firm and bounce back. Avoid cranberries that are mushy or have soft spots.
Texture: Inspect the berries for any visible signs of mold, wrinkles, or discoloration. A few blemishes are normal, but choose berries that appear mostly smooth and unblemished.
4. Choosing Dried Cranberries
Dried cranberries, or craisins, are a convenient and versatile option for various recipes. When selecting dried cranberries:
Check for Moisture: Dried cranberries should be dry to the touch and not sticky. Clumps or excessive stickiness may indicate they’ve absorbed moisture and are past their prime.
Look for Plumpness: Opt for plump and evenly-sized dried cranberries. Avoid shriveled or overly flat ones, as they may be older and less flavorful.
Read the Ingredients: Check the ingredient list for added sugars or preservatives. Some dried cranberries are sweetened, which can affect their suitability for certain dishes. Choose unsweetened varieties for more control over sweetness in your recipes.
5. Storage Tips for Cranberries
Once you’ve selected your cranberries, proper storage is essential to maintain their freshness:
Fresh Cranberries: Store fresh cranberries in their original packaging in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. They can remain fresh for several weeks when refrigerated. Avoid washing them until you’re ready to use them, as moisture can accelerate spoilage.
Dried Cranberries: Keep dried cranberries in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. When stored correctly, they have a long shelf life and remain tasty for months.
Frozen Cranberries: Frozen cranberries can be stored in the freezer for up to a year in their original packaging or an airtight container. Be sure to check for any signs of freezer burn before use.
6. Buying in Bulk
If you plan to use cranberries frequently, consider buying in bulk during the harvest season when they are at their freshest and most affordable. Freeze them for long-term storage, and you’ll have a supply of fresh cranberries year-round.
Selecting the best cranberries for your culinary adventures is a rewarding endeavor.
Whether you’re preparing a Thanksgiving feast, baking cranberry muffins, or simply enjoying a handful of dried cranberries as a snack, following these guidelines will ensure your cranberries are of the highest quality, resulting in delectable dishes that burst with flavor.
32 Incredible Cranberry Recipes To Try
1) Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Flatbreads
Get the recipe at – Healthy Seasonal Recipes
2) Nutty Oatmeal Cranberry Bars
Get the recipe at – She Wears Many Hats
3) Cranberry Breakfast Cake
Get the recipe at – The View From Great Island
4) Cranberry Tart
Get the recipe at – The Cozy Apron
5) Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Get the recipe at – Baking A Moment
Also See: 35 Tasty Butternut Squash Recipes You’ve Got To Try
6) Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
Get the recipe at – Mom On Timeout
7) Glazed Cranberry Orange Scones
Get the recipe at – Sally’s Baking Addiction
8) Cranberry Christmas Cookies
Get the recipe at – Kitchen Cat
9) Balsamic Roasted Cranberry Chicken
Get the recipe at – Cotter Crunch
10) Cranberry Relish
Get the recipe at – Dinner At The Zoo
Also See: 25+ Mouthwatering Fall Desserts That’ll Satisfy Your Cravings
11) Cranberry Pie
Get the recipe at – Baked By An Introvert
12) Cranberry Bread
Get the recipe at – Dinner Then Dessert
13) Candied Cranberries
Get the recipe at – Aromatic Essence
14) Cranberry Brie Bites
Get the recipe at – A Spicy Perspective
15) Paleo Cranberry Crumb Bars
Also See: 32 Delicious Dessert Bar Recipes You’re Going To Love
16) Cranberry Trifle
Get the recipe at – Spend With Pennies
17) Cranberry Bundt Cake
Get the recipe at – Natasha’s Kitchen
18) Cranberry Meatballs
19) Cranberry Fluff Salad
Get the recipe at – That Skinny Chick Can Bake
20) Cranberry Walnut Pinwheels
Get the recipe at – Yellow Bliss Road
Also See: 25 Amazing No Bake Cookie Recipes That’ll Leave You Drooling
21) White Chocolate Cranberry Sweet Rolls
Get the recipe at – The Recipe Rebel
22) Cranberry Orange Muffins with Streusel Topping
Get the recipe at – OMG Chocolate Desserts
23) Cranberry Achar
Get the recipe at – My Heart Beets
24) Cranberry Mulled Wine
Get the recipe at – Gimme Some Oven
25) Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls
Get the recipe at – The Wicked Noodle
Also See: 25+ Delicious Oreo Desserts To Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
26) Cranberry Bliss Bars
Get the recipe at – Belle Of The Kitchen
27) Apple Cranberry Crisp
Get the recipe at – Kitchen Confidante
28) Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad
Get the recipe at – Recipe Runner
29) Persian Cranberry Rice Pilaf
Get the recipe at – Little Spice Jar
30) White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Fudge
Get the recipe at – House of Nash Eats
31) Cranberry Pear Puff Pastry Turnovers
Get the recipe at – Fork Knife Swoon
32) White Chocolate Cranberry Cheesecake
