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Easy Homemade Cranberry Applesauce with Maple Syrup Recipe


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4.1 from 79 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Easy Homemade Cranberry Applesauce with Maple Syrup is a vibrant and tangy twist on classic applesauce. Combining fresh cranberries simmered with maple syrup and warm spices, then blended into smooth applesauce, it offers a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. Ready in just 15 minutes, this versatile condiment is great as a side dish, snack, or topping.


Ingredients

Fruit Mixture

  • 1 cup fresh cranberries, thoroughly rinsed
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup

Spices and Flavorings

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange zest

Base

  • 3 cups applesauce (homemade or store-bought)


Instructions

  1. Prepare Cranberries: Thoroughly rinse and drain the fresh cranberries to remove any impurities or debris.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a 5-quart or larger stovetop pot, pour in the water, maple syrup, and rinsed cranberries. Cover the pot with a lid to prevent splatters during cooking.
  3. Cook Cranberries: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the liquid to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries pop open and soften.
  4. Strain Liquid: Remove the pot from heat and strain the liquid from the softened cranberries using a fine sieve or strainer.
  5. Combine with Applesauce: Spoon the cooked cranberries into the applesauce. Stir well to combine. For a smoother consistency, transfer the mixture into a blender and pulse until puréed to your liking.
  6. Add Spices and Zest: Stir in the optional ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and orange zest to infuse the applesauce with warm and citrusy flavors.
  7. Cool and Store: Allow the cranberry applesauce to cool at room temperature. Then transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate. The sauce will keep fresh for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Use fresh cranberries for the best texture and flavor. Frozen cranberries can be used but may alter cooking time slightly.
  • If you prefer a chunkier applesauce, skip the blending step and simply stir the cranberries in.
  • Adjust the amount of maple syrup to taste if you prefer a less sweet or sweeter applesauce.
  • Orange zest adds a bright aroma; feel free to omit if you prefer a plainer flavor.
  • This applesauce works well as a side for pork dishes, breakfast topping, or a healthy snack option.
  • Store in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American