Baked Brandied Cranberries
Sweet and boozy baked cranberries infused with brandy and sugar, perfect as a festive side or topping, offering a balance of tartness and warmth for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cranberries in a shallow baking dish.
- Sprinkle with 2 cups of sugar.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from oven and stir in 3/4 cup of brandy.
- Sprinkle with 1/4 cup of sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of orange juice with the cranberries. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar by a cup or use a sugar substitute. Ensure the cranberries are fresh, as dried or frozen ones won't yield the same texture or flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with savory options like Southern Style Squirrel Stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked brandied cranberries as a sweet topping for roasted meats or as a unique side with your holiday meals. They also work well as a topping for cheesecake or yogurt. For a festive touch, consider pairing them with a refreshing Red Cabbage And Apple Salad for a colorful holiday spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm the cranberries in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also serve them cold or at room temperature, making them versatile for various occasions.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Brandied Cranberries contains roughly 852 calories, with 3g protein, 227g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 18g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberries a day in advance. Just bake them and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I substitute for brandy?
If you prefer not to use brandy, you can try apple juice, orange juice, or a non-alcoholic brandy substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How can I use leftovers creatively?
Leftover baked brandied cranberries can be used in a variety of dishes. They make a fantastic topping for pancakes or waffles, or stir them into oatmeal for a sweet breakfast treat. They also work well in baked goods like muffins or tarts.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).