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While canned cranberry sauce is a beloved holiday staple, fresh cranberries offer up a whole new world of possibilities. And we’re not just talking about making homemade cranberry sauce. The fall favorite fruit has a tart flavor profile and a vibrant color that can elevate a wide variety of dishes, from brightening up your breakfast to adding beautiful balance to a rich dessert. We’ve pulled together five fantastic cranberry recipes that will have you thinking outside the can and embracing their tangy goodness beyond the Thanksgiving table this year.
Before we dive in, let’s review the cranberry basics. Typically, fresh cranberries are only available from October through December, but they store exceptionally well. Keep them in their original packaging in the refrigerator for up to a month or freeze them for up to a year—just be sure to rinse and dry them before use. If you have the space, it’s always worth freezing a bag or two, and it’s much more cost-effective than buying them frozen. When shopping for fresh cranberries, look for firm, plump berries with a dark red color. Avoid any that are soft or shriveled. Now, onto the recipes.
Cranberry-Orange Pancakes
Few things brighten a morning like a stack of pancakes, and these get an extra boost from a fresh cranberry compote. First, make a quick and easy compote using fresh cranberries, orange zest, sugar, and a splash of lime juice. Then, swirl some compote into the basic pancake batter for a boost of flavor and reserve the rest for topping. The tartness balances so nicely with the sweetness of the maple syrup. It’ll be a family favorite in no time.
Cranberry-Apple Pie
Two of fall’s most iconic fruits team up for this stunning double-crust pie. The cranberries stain the filling a beautiful red hue and help balance out the sugar with their tartness. Though you can make your own pie crust, a ready-to-bake crust keeps this recipe prep time to a minimum. Bonus: baking your pie on top of a preheated pan is a clever trick that ensures your bottom crust is fully cooked and crisp.
Retro Cranberry Fluff
What’s old is new again and there couldn’t be a better time to revisit this nostalgic recipe perfect to make ahead for holiday gatherings. It’s packed with kid-friendly marshmallows and decadent cream cheese, and the freshly chopped cranberries and apples provide a contrasting texture to the fluffy cloud of cream. A can of crushed pineapples and whole berry cranberry sauce amp up the fruity flavor and sweetness for the perfect bite.
Paleo Cranberry Cheesecake
This might look like a traditional cherry-topped cheesecake, but this gluten- and dairy-free dessert is packed with alternative ingredients that will have everyone going back for seconds. The crust is made from toasted pecans and coconut, while the filling features a light, homemade cashew cream sweetened with honey and a touch of vanilla. Finish the impressive cake with a fresh homemade cranberry topping. It’s a creamy and tangy dessert that’s delicious and ensures everyone at your table can end the night with something sweet.
Skillet Chicken with Cranberries
Fresh cranberries get a flavor upgrade with light brown sugar, dried oregano, and sauteed onions for a sweet and savory sauce that coats crispy chicken thighs beautifully. It’s a weeknight one-pan dinner you’ll love during chilly nights.
