Cranberry-Apple Sauce
A vibrant and tangy cranberry-apple sauce perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday desserts, blending tart cranberries with sweet apples and a hint of apple juice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan; bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, 6 minutes or until chopped apples are tender.
- Serve warm over pancakes or cold over ice cream.
- Store sauce in refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup if desired. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the sauce after cooking. You can substitute the cooking apples with pears for a different flavor profile. Also, if you want a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry-apple sauce pairs beautifully with pancakes, waffles, or even as a topping for oatmeal. For dessert, serve it cold over ice cream or use it as a filling for pastries. It also complements savory dishes, making it a great accompaniment to roasted meats or as part of a cheese platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cranberry-apple sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply warm it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry-Apple Sauce contains roughly 271 calories, with 1g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value).
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 use fresh cranberries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries! If using fresh, be sure to cook them with the apples and apple juice until they burst and soften, which may take a bit longer. Adjust the sweetness as needed since fresh cranberries are tart.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this cranberry-apple sauce is suitable for vegans as it contains no animal products. Make sure to check that your apple juice is also vegan-friendly, but most types are. It's a great addition to any vegan recipes or meals.
How long can I freeze the sauce?
You can freeze the cranberry-apple sauce for up to three months. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
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).