Add a twist to your holiday table with this vibrant Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cherries.
A blend of tart cranberries and sweet, chewy cherries creates a rich depth of flavor that’s both classic and unexpected.
Simmered with hints of citrus and spice, this sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
It’s a simple recipe that elevates any roast or leftover sandwich, making it a festive favorite you’ll want to enjoy long after the holidays are over.
How To Make Cranberry Sauce With Dried Cherries?
Preparation Times: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Yield: Approximately 2 cups (serves 8)
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or fine grater
- Serving bowl or an airtight container
Ingredients
- 12 oz (1 bag) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup dried cherries
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Simmer the Base
In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, dried cherries, sugar, water, and orange juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add Flavor Layers
Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in orange zest, red pepper flakes, cinnamon, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
3. Cook Until Thickened
Let the mixture simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
4. Blend (Optional)
For a smoother consistency, transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until you reach your desired texture.
5. Cool and Garnish
Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve warm or chilled.
Nutrition Facts Of Cranberry Sauce With Dried Cherries
- Calories: 100
- Sodium: 25mg
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 0.5g
Serving Suggestions
◉ Holiday Sidekick: Serve alongside roast turkey, chicken, or ham for a festive touch.
◉ Sandwich Spread: Use as a sweet-tart spread in leftover turkey sandwiches.
◉ Pork or Duck Glaze: Warm and brush over pork chops or duck breast for a rich finish.
◉ Breakfast Booster: Stir into oatmeal or spread on toast for a fruity kick.
Tips and Variations
◆ Add Citrus Zest: A touch of orange or lemon zest brightens the flavor.
◆ Make It Boozy: Stir in a splash of port, brandy, or red wine for depth.
◆ Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a natural twist.
◆ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
No, dried cherries are best for this recipe as they add a concentrated flavor and chewy texture.
Do I need to soak the dried cherries first?
No, as they will soften during cooking, but soaking can help them plump up more.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge.
Can I freeze cranberry sauce with dried cherries?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months.
What type of cranberries should I use?
Fresh or frozen cranberries both work well.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, as long as you use a plant-based sweetener.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cherries brings a bold, fruity flair to any meal.
Its vibrant flavor and texture make it more than just a side dish—it’s a standout.
Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a delicious way to elevate your table and leave a lasting impression.
Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cherries
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or fine grater
- Serving bowl or an airtight container
Ingredients
- 12 oz 1 bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup dried cherries
- ½ cup granulated sugar adjust to taste
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh cilantro or parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, dried cherries, sugar, water, and orange juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in orange zest, red pepper flakes, cinnamon, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
- Let the mixture simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
- For a smoother consistency, transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until you reach your desired texture.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve warm or chilled.
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.