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
- Prepare Cranberries: Thoroughly rinse and drain the fresh cranberries to remove any impurities or debris.
- 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.
- 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.
- Strain Liquid: Remove the pot from heat and strain the liquid from the softened cranberries using a fine sieve or strainer.
- 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.
- Add Spices and Zest: Stir in the optional ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and orange zest to infuse the applesauce with warm and citrusy flavors.
- 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