Get ready to transform your holiday table with a cranberry apple sauce so delicious, it'll make your guests forget about everything else on their plate! This isn't just another side dish - it's a festive flavor explosion that perfectly balances tart cranberries, sweet apples, and warm cinnamon in one irresistible recipe. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this homemade sauce will elevate your holiday meal from ordinary to extraordinary in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash the fresh cranberries thoroughly under cool running water, removing any stems or damaged berries.
- Peel and core the apples, then chop them into small, roughly half-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves over medium heat.
- Add the fresh cranberries and chopped apples to the sugar syrup, stirring to coat the fruit evenly.
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the fruit mixture, which will enhance the warm holiday flavor profile.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Stir occasionally and gently mash some of the cranberries and apples with the back of a wooden spoon to help release pectin and create a desired consistency.
- When the sauce has thickened and most cranberries have burst, remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice.
- Allow the cranberry apple sauce to cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, during which it will continue to thicken.
- Transfer to a serving bowl or storage container and refrigerate. The sauce can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- • Choose firm, bright red cranberries and crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture. • Don't skip the lemon juice - it helps balance sweetness and prevents browning of the apples. • For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree after cooking. • If you prefer less sugar, try using honey or maple syrup as a natural alternative. • The sauce can be made 2-3 days in advance, which makes holiday meal prep easier. • For a more complex flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or orange zest along with the cinnamon. • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
