As the weather cools and the holiday season approaches, our thoughts turn to warm, comforting desserts that incorporate the sweet-tart flavor of cranberries. From classic cheesecakes and crisps to innovative cookies and cakes, we’ve gathered 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of this beloved fruit. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for inspiration, these irresistible treats are sure to become new favorites in your household.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of cranberry desserts, featuring a diverse array of sweet and savory creations that will satisfy any sweet tooth. From easy-to-make bars and cookies to more elaborate tarts and cakes, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 scrumptious recipes.
Cranberry Orange Cheesecake Bars
These bars combine the flavors of cranberries, orange zest, and creamy cheesecake for a perfect holiday dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 cup orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined. Press into prepared dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Fold in cranberries and orange zest. Pour over crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies
These sweet and tangy blondies are a perfect treat for any time of day. With the combination of white chocolate, cranberries, and a hint of vanilla, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and melted butter until just combined.
3. Stir in white chocolate chips, cranberries, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Cranberry Apple Crisp
A warm and inviting dessert that combines the flavors of crisp apples and tart cranberries with a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples and cranberries.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add the dry mixture to the apple-cranberry mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
6. In a small bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter. Mix until crumbly.
7. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the apple-cranberry mixture.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti
Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti Recipe
Warm up with these crunchy, flavorful biscotti infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberries and pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Fold in cranberries and pistachios.
6. Divide dough in half and shape into logs about 12 inches long.
7. Place logs on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each log.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing into biscotti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Cranberry Bread Pudding
Easy Cranberry Bread Pudding Recipe
Warm up with this delicious and easy-to-make cranberry bread pudding, perfect for a cozy night in or a holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired. Enjoy!
Cranberry Lime Tart with Gingersnap Crust
A refreshing twist on the classic tart, this Cranberry Lime Tart with Gingersnap Crust combines tangy cranberries and lime curd with a crunchy gingersnap crust.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups gingersnap crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
– 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and lime juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until cranberries pop and mixture thickens (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional minute.
6. Whisk together egg yolks and grated lime zest. Temper egg yolks by slowly pouring warm cranberry mixture into eggs, whisking constantly.
7. Pour filling into baked tart crust and smooth top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until filling is set.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Dark Chocolate Cranberry Clusters
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the richness of dark chocolate with the tartness of cranberries, perfect for a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the oats and dark chocolate chips.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the honey and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the melted mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in the dried cranberries.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and serve.
Cranberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies
Cranberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Summary:
These sweet and tangy cookies are perfect for the holiday season, with a burst of cranberry flavor and crunchy almonds.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Stir in cranberries and almonds.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Press center of each cookie with your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Maple Glazed Cranberry Donuts
Sweet and tangy, these maple glazed cranberry donuts are the perfect treat for a chilly fall morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– 1 cup cranberries, chopped
– Maple glaze (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, melted butter, and egg; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped cranberries.
5. Pipe donut batter into rings using a piping bag or a zip-top plastic bag with a corner cut off.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and let cool.
8. Dip cooled donuts in maple glaze (see below).
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Maple Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon whole milk
Whisk together until smooth; adjust consistency as needed.
Vanilla Bean Cranberry Panna Cotta
Vanilla Bean Cranberry Panna Cotta Recipe
Panna cotta, an Italian dessert, gets a festive twist with the addition of cranberries and vanilla beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and split vanilla bean. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the cream mixture into a large bowl, discarding the vanilla bean.
4. Add cranberries and honey to the cream mixture. Stir until the cranberries are evenly distributed.
5. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cranberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Cranberry Coconut Macaroons
Cranberry Coconut Macaroons Recipe
These chewy macaroons are infused with the sweetness of coconut and the tanginess of cranberries, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (15g) dried cranberries
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, coconut, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites and vanilla extract until frothy.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the egg whites, beating until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold in the dried cranberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Baked Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls
These sweet and tangy cinnamon rolls are perfect for the holiday season, filled with the flavors of cranberries and warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
3. Add warm milk and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
6. Mix cranberries, cinnamon, and sugar; spread evenly over the dough.
7. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
8. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each roll.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cranberry Pear Galette
This recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the tartness of cranberries, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a seasonal dessert or breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange pear slices in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle cranberries, honey, orange zest, and salt over the pears.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Cranberry Shortbread
This sweet and tangy shortbread cookie is elevated to new heights with the addition of cranberries and a rich chocolate dipping. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Stir in granulated sugar and cranberries.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate and place on parchment paper to set.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cranberry Meringue Pie
This sweet and tangy pie combines the flavors of fresh cranberries with a crunchy meringue topping, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup meringue topping (see below)
Meringue Topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, cornstarch, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
3. Stir in the melted butter and let cool slightly.
4. Roll out a pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the cooled cranberry mixture.
5. Top with meringue topping, spreading evenly to cover the filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Brown Butter Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
Warm up with a batch of Brown Butter Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies, perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in cranberries and optional nuts (if using).
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between cookies.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cranberry Lemon Loaf Cake
Brighten up your holiday gatherings with this tangy and sweet Cranberry Lemon Loaf Cake, perfect for a festive breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and cranberries.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Caramelized Cranberry Ice Cream
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the flavors of caramelized cranberries with creamy ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup caramelized cranberries (see note)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in honey until it’s fully incorporated.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add caramelized cranberries and vanilla extract.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Note: To caramelize cranberries, combine 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries with 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries pop and the mixture is syrupy, about 10-12 minutes. Let cool before using.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including freezing time)
Cranberry Hazelnut Financiers
Cranberry Hazelnut Financiers Recipe Summary:
These French-inspired financiers are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (60g) hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
– 1/4 cup (30g) dried cranberries, chopped
– Unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the mold)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with melted butter.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped hazelnuts and cranberries.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the mini muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mini Cranberry Pavlovas with Whipped Cream
Mini Cranberry Pavlovas with Whipped Cream
Discover the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors in these bite-sized pavlovas, bursting with cranberries and topped with a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (120g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar mixture and melted butter; mix until stiff peaks form.
3. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in small oval shapes (about 5cm x 7.5cm). Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until crisp and dry.
4. Allow pavlovas to cool completely on wire rack. Just before serving, dust with confectioners’ sugar and top each with a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering cranberry dessert recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! From classic cheesecake bars and blondies, to innovative tartes and cookies, these sweet treats showcase the versatility of cranberries in desserts. Whether you’re a fan of tangy flavors or rich indulgences, there’s something for everyone in this collection of irresistible recipes.
Leave a Reply