Are you tired of letting your leftover cranberry sauce go to waste? Think again! This tart and tangy condiment can be used in a multitude of delicious dishes beyond just serving as a traditional Thanksgiving side dish. From sweet treats like muffins and pancakes, to savory meals like pork chops and meatballs, the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll showcase 19 creative recipes that will inspire you to get creative with your leftover cranberry sauce. Whether you’re looking for a new breakfast idea, a quick lunch option, or a special dessert to impress your friends and family, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get inspired, and give those leftovers a new lease on life!
Cranberry Sauce Swirl Cheesecake
This show-stopping cheesecake combines the classic flavors of creamy cheesecake with the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce, creating a delightful holiday treat. Perfect for serving at your next gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
5. Dollop cranberry sauce on top of cheesecake, using a spatula to swirl into the batter.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Glazed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with a tangy and sweet cranberry glaze, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree cranberries, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the cranberry glaze evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the sweetness of cranberries with the tanginess of orange, perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, cranberry sauce, eggs, orange zest, and orange juice. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Smoothie Bowl
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this unique and flavorful Cranberry Sauce Smoothie Bowl. By combining the tartness of cranberries with creamy yogurt and sweet honey, you’ll get a delightful treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– Sprinkle of chia seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine cranberries, yogurt, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the sliced banana and blend until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl and top with rolled oats and chia seeds (if using).
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Oatmeal Bars
These chewy bars combine the warmth of oatmeal with the tanginess of cranberry sauce, perfect for a snack or dessert. With just 7 ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Add melted butter, cranberry sauce, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Sauce BBQ Chicken
Elevate your barbecue game with this unique recipe that combines the tanginess of cranberry sauce with the richness of BBQ chicken. Perfect for a summer gathering or casual dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Pancakes
Cranberry Sauce Pancakes: A Delicious Twist on Classic Flapjacks
Start your day with a flavorful breakfast treat that combines the warmth of pancakes with the tanginess of cranberries. This recipe is perfect for fall and winter mornings when you want to add some festive flair to your morning routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– Fresh cranberries and whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in cranberry sauce.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Yogurt Parfait
This refreshing dessert is perfect for the holiday season, combining the tanginess of yogurt with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of granola. It’s an easy and impressive treat that can be prepared in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1/4 cup fresh blueberries (optional)
– Honey or maple syrup to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and cranberry sauce until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with granola and blueberries (if using).
4. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with a dollop of yogurt on top.
5. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup to taste.
Cooking Time:
– 5 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Chocolate Brownies
These rich brownies combine the sweetness of chocolate with the tanginess of cranberry sauce, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Add cocoa powder and mix until well combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and cranberry sauce.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and tangy twist on classic French toast! Moist bread, infused with the flavors of cranberry sauce and topped with a crispy streusel topping, is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Streusel topping (see below)
Streusel Topping:
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and milk.
2. Add softened butter, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt to the egg mixture; whisk until combined.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of cranberry sauce onto one half of each bread slice.
6. Fold the other half over to enclose the filling.
7. Sprinkle streusel topping over the top of each toast.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Granola
Brighten up your morning or afternoon snack with this sweet and tangy granola infused with the flavors of cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, cranberry sauce, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted and fragrant.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into chunks.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Sauce Granola as a snack, on yogurt, or as a topping for oatmeal or ice cream!
Cranberry Sauce Salad Dressing
Add a tangy twist to your salads with this homemade cranberry sauce salad dressing! This sweet and tangy condiment is perfect for fall and winter salads, featuring the flavors of fresh cranberries, orange zest, and warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.
3. Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold preparation.
Cranberry Sauce Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with the sweet and tangy combination of cranberry sauce and savory beef. Perfect for the holiday season or anytime you want to add a pop of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are baking, combine cranberry sauce and 2 tablespoons of water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Serve warm with your favorite pasta dish or as an appetizer.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Ice Cream
Cranberry Sauce Ice Cream Recipe
This recipe combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the creaminess of ice cream, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Stir in the cranberry sauce and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and place in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Cranberry Sauce Bread Pudding
This moist and flavorful bread pudding is infused with the sweetness of cranberries and the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a cozy fall or winter treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, cranberry sauce, and eggs.
3. Add bread cubes, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow bread to absorb liquid.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Scones
These sweet and tangy scones are perfect for the holiday season, infused with the flavors of cranberry sauce and a hint of orange zest. Serve them warm with a pat of butter or as a snack on their own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
4. Stir in cranberry sauce, egg, and orange zest until a dough forms.
5. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter to create shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each scone.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Rice Pudding
This unique rice pudding combines the warmth of cooked rice with the tartness of cranberry sauce, perfect for a holiday dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, milk, and sugar.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
4. Stir in cranberry sauce and vanilla extract.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional cranberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Glazed Salmon
Elevate your salmon dish with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce glaze. This recipe is perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberry sauce, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the cranberry glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Trail Mix
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and tangy trail mix recipe, featuring the flavors of cranberry sauce!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, and dried cranberries.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the cranberry sauce over low heat until smooth.
3. Add the honey to the warmed cranberry sauce and stir until combined.
4. Pour the cranberry-honey mixture over the oat-nut mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Fold in the golden raisins and dark chocolate chips.
6. Sprinkle with salt to balance the sweetness.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Sauce Trail Mix!
Summary
Get creative with your leftover cranberry sauce! This article features 19 delicious recipes that use up cranberry sauce, from sweet treats like Cranberry Sauce Swirl Cheesecake and Cranberry Sauce Chocolate Brownies to savory dishes such as Cranberry Sauce Glazed Pork Chops and Cranberry Sauce BBQ Chicken. You’ll also find breakfast-inspired recipes like Cranberry Sauce Oatmeal Bars and Cranberry Sauce Pancakes, as well as healthier options like Cranberry Sauce Yogurt Parfait and Cranberry Sauce Granola. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory meal, there’s something on this list for everyone!
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