Classic Cranberry Relish Recipe

Introduction

This 5-Minute Cranberry Relish is the easiest ever holiday side dish! Fresh cranberries, orange, and a hint of sweetness come together in a food processor for a vibrant, no-cook condiment. It pairs perfectly with turkey and adds a bright pop of flavor to your feast. For another cranberry-inspired dish, try the Cranberry-Glazed Roasted Butternut Squash Salad Recipe.

Ingredients

This vibrant Cranberry Relish combines sweet, tart, and citrusy flavors with a hint of warm spice for a refreshingly bright condiment.

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large orange, zested and juiced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	5 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: This easy Cranberry Relish is about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Ingredients

Gather 12 ounces fresh cranberries, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 orange (zest and juice), and 1/2 cup water. Rinse cranberries thoroughly and discard any soft or bruised berries. Zest the orange before juicing to capture maximum flavor.

Step 2 — Combine in Saucepan

Place cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and water in a medium saucepan. Stir gently to combine. The sugar will begin to dissolve as the mixture heats.

Step 3 — Cook Over Medium Heat

Bring the cranberry mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle bubble. Cook for 10–12 minutes until cranberries have popped and softened.

Step 4 — Test Consistency

The Cranberry Relish is ready when most berries have burst and the liquid has thickened slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools. For a chunkier relish, remove from heat earlier; for smoother, cook 1–2 minutes longer.

Step 5 — Cool Slightly

Remove saucepan from heat and let the relish cool for 15–20 minutes. It will thicken further as it cools. Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.

Step 6 — Adjust Sweetness

Taste the cooled Cranberry Relish and add more sugar if desired. For a brighter flavor, stir in 1 teaspoon lemon juice. For added texture, fold in 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.

Step 7 — Transfer and Chill

Pour the relish into a glass or ceramic bowl. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow flavors to meld. The Cranberry Relish will keep for up to 1 week refrigerated.

Step 8 — Serve

Serve chilled Cranberry Relish as a condiment with roasted turkey, chicken, or pork. It also pairs wonderfully with baked brie or as a spread on sandwiches. Bring to room temperature 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Nutritional Information

Calories	110
Protein	0.5g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	0.1g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	5mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Maple syrup instead of sugar — Adds rich, caramel-like sweetness with trace minerals.
• Fresh orange zest instead of juice — Intense citrus aroma without extra liquid or sugar.
• Chopped apples instead of raisins — Lower glycemic impact with crisp texture.
• Chia seeds instead of pectin — Natural thickener with omega-3s and fiber.
• Toasted walnuts instead of pecans — Heart-healthy fats and earthy flavor.
• Coconut oil instead of butter — Dairy-free option with subtle tropical notes.
• Low-sodium vegetable broth for cooking liquid — Reduces sodium while enhancing savory depth.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this vibrant Cranberry Relish with roasted turkey or baked ham for a classic holiday meal.
• Serve it alongside a cheese board featuring brie, goat cheese, and sharp cheddar for a delightful sweet and savory contrast.
• Use this Cranberry Relish as a condiment for leftover turkey sandwiches to add a fresh, tangy kick.
• Dollop it over warm baked brie or cream cheese topped crackers for an easy, impressive appetizer.
• Incorporate it into a festive salad by mixing it with greens, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette.
• Offer it as a bright accompaniment to pork chops or grilled chicken to elevate a simple weeknight dinner.

For a beautiful presentation, serve your Cranberry Relish in a clear glass bowl or mason jar to showcase its brilliant red color, and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or rosemary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using canned cranberry sauce instead of fresh berries. Fix: Fresh cranberries provide superior texture and a brighter, more complex flavor profile.
• Mistake: Overcooking the cranberries into a mushy paste. Fix: Cook just until the berries pop to maintain a pleasant, chunky relish consistency.
• Mistake: Skipping the citrus zest. Fix: The zest adds essential aromatic oils that balance the tartness and elevate the overall flavor.
• Mistake: Adding all the sugar at the beginning. Fix: Sweeten gradually at the end, after tasting, to achieve the perfect sweet-tart balance for your palate.
• Mistake: Not allowing the relish to chill and rest. Fix: Let it sit for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for the flavors to fully meld and develop.
• Mistake: Using a dull knife or food processor to chop add-ins. Fix: Hand-chop ingredients like apples or nuts for better texture control and to prevent a watery puree.
• Mistake: Forgetting to balance tartness with another flavor dimension. Fix: Incorporate a pinch of salt, a splash of orange liqueur, or a warm spice like cinnamon to add complexity.
• Mistake: Storing the relish in a non-airtight container. Fix: Use a sealed container in the fridge to prevent the relish from absorbing other food odors and drying out.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Cranberry Relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the relish in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Gently warm the relish in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a safe serving temperature of at least 165°F.

Always allow the relish to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing to maintain food safety and quality.

Conclusion

This classic Cranberry Relish is the perfect sweet-tart addition to your holiday table. Try this easy recipe and let us know how it turned out in the comments! For another festive cranberry treat, check out our White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters Recipe. Subscribe for more quick and delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make this Cranberry Relish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Cranberry Relish up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld and improve over time.

How long does homemade Cranberry Relish last in the fridge?

Homemade Cranberry Relish will keep for about 1 to 2 weeks when stored properly in the refrigerator. Always use a clean spoon to serve it to prevent spoilage.

Can I freeze leftover Cranberry Relish?

Absolutely. This Cranberry Relish freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and flavor.