Looking to take your holiday meals to the next level? Cranberry sauce is a classic staple during the holidays, but did you know that you can create your own delicious variations using canned cranberry sauce? With a little creativity, you can transform canned cranberry sauce into something special. Whether you’re looking for traditional flavors or want to try something new, these canned cranberry sauce recipes will add a burst of tart sweetness to any meal. Get ready to impress your guests with these mouthwatering Canned Cranberry Sauce Recipes that go beyond the ordinary.
Classic Canned Cranberry Sauce Recipe
If you’re looking to keep it simple but still add a bit of homemade charm, this classic canned cranberry sauce recipe is perfect. It enhances the flavor of store-bought cranberry canned sauce with just a few extra ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 can of whole berry cranberry sauce (14 oz)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup of sugar (optional for a sweeter version)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for texture)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional for added fruitiness)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a saucepan, mix the cranberry sauce, orange juice, and sugar (if using). Break up the sauce with a spoon.
- Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
- Add chopped nuts and dried cranberries if desired.
- Stir in orange zest before removing from heat. Let cool slightly before serving.
Zesty Orange Cranberry Relish
Add a burst of citrus to your cranberry sauce by blending it with fresh orange flavors. This zesty orange cranberry relish is perfect as a topping for turkey, ham, or even a spoonful over creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 can of whole-berry cranberry sauce
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the canned cranberry sauce with the orange zest, juice, honey, cinnamon, and ginger.
- Mix well and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve alongside your favorite holiday main dishes.
Cranberry Barbecue Glaze
This recipe offers a tangy twist on traditional barbecue sauces by using canned cranberry sauce as a base. The cranberry barbecue glaze is perfect for coating chicken, pork, or even as a dipping sauce for appetizers.
Ingredients
- 1 can of jellied cranberry sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat the canned cranberry sauce over medium heat until smooth.
- Add the ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until well combined.
- Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Brush the glaze over your choice of grilled or roasted meat during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a sweet, smoky flavor.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
For a quick and elegant appetizer, this cranberry cream cheese spread pairs the tartness of cranberries with the creamy texture of cheese. Serve it with crackers or crostini for a festive bite.
Ingredients
- 1 can of whole-berry cranberry sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the honey and rosemary until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture onto a serving plate.
- Spoon the canned cranberry sauce on top and sprinkle with pecans if desired.
- Serve with crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette.
Cranberry & Apple Crisp
Turn your canned cranberry sauce into a delightful fall dessert with this cranberry and apple crisp. The combination of sweet apples and tart cranberries under a buttery oat topping is irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 can of whole-berry cranberry sauce
- 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with the cranberry sauce, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples and cranberry sauce.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Savor the deliciousness of berries with the luscious red Cherry Jam Recipe.
Cranberry Jalapeño Dip
If you’re looking for a party-friendly appetizer, this cranberry jalapeño dip adds a spicy kick to the sweetness of canned cranberry sauce. It’s perfect for spreading on crackers or serving with tortilla chips.
Ingredients
- 1 can of jellied cranberry sauce
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the cranberry sauce, chopped jalapeños, and lime juice together.
- Spread the softened cream cheese on a serving plate.
- Spoon the cranberry-jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
- Serve with crackers or chips.
Conclusion
From classic twists to creative spins, canned cranberry sauce can be transformed into an unforgettable side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re enhancing store-bought versions or diving into the world of canned cranberry sauce for long-term enjoyment, these recipes open the door to endless possibilities. From smooth canning cranberry jelly to textured cranberry relish, you now have the tools to make this holiday staple your own. So, why settle for the ordinary when you can craft something extraordinary.