Roasted Cranberries

Name: Roasted Cranberries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh cranberries; 1 small orange, juiced & zested (set aside ½ the zest for garnish); 2 tablespoons bourbon or apple juice; 2 tablespoons raw honey or coconut sugar (for a vegan option); ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch of kosher salt

By:

Marry

Published:

October 7, 2025

[grow_share_buttons]

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Roasted cranberries are a delightful treat, perfect for brightening up your kitchen and your meals! Imagine the tartness of fresh cranberries transforming into a sweet, caramelized delight right in your oven. It’s like a magical transformation that captures both warmth and flavor. This recipe brings a unique combination of ingredients that enhance the natural goodness of cranberries, elevating them to a whole new level.

As you roast these little gems, you’ll discover how they mellow out and become sweet with a twist of tangy orange and a splash of bourbon. The aromas that waft through your kitchen will have your family asking, “What’s cooking?” Roasted cranberries are so versatile; you can serve them in a variety of ways. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or just want to impress dinner guests, this cozy dish will be the star of the show.

Let’s get started on this scrumptious adventure!

Why This Recipe Works

Roasting cranberries brings out their natural tartness and turns it into a beautifully caramelized treat. The vibrant flavors of bourbon and orange zest deepen the taste, creating a blend that suits various palates. Rather than being just a side, this recipe makes cranberries a standout dish. Plus, the roast enhances their visual appeal, creating a glaze that makes them irresistible on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Cranberries

You’ll be amazed at how this roasted cranberries recipe can transform your meals! They can shine alongside a festive turkey, add flair to your favorite dessert, or bring a zesty punch to salads. The sweet tang and charming aroma will fill your home, making it feel warm and inviting. Everyone at your table will be excited to dig in!

Ingredients

4 cups fresh cranberries
1 small orange, juiced & zested (set aside ½ the zest for garnish)
2 tablespoons bourbon or apple juice
2 tablespoons raw honey or coconut sugar (for a vegan option)
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of kosher salt

Preparing Your Roasted Cranberries

Preheat Your Oven

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures the cranberries roast evenly and become perfectly caramelized.

Combine the Ingredients

Next, grab a 9-inch baking dish, and throw in those fresh cranberries. Add the orange juice and zest, bourbon or apple juice, raw honey or coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and kosher salt. Stir everything thoroughly so that all the flavors blend together beautifully.

Roast the Cranberries

Now it’s time to let the oven work its magic. Place your baking dish into the preheated oven and roast for about 45 minutes. For best results, keep an eye on them. The cranberries are ready when they pop, soften, and the liquid thickens, reducing by about two-thirds.

Garnish and Serve

When the timer goes off, take the baking dish out and let it cool slightly. Before you serve, sprinkle that reserved orange zest over the top. This adds a pop of freshness and makes for a stunning presentation that will impress everyone.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted cranberries can be paired with so many dishes! They complement grilled chicken and savory pork roasts wonderfully. If you’re in a sweet mood, try them as a topping on pancakes or yogurt. And don’t forget about adding them to salads—the sweet tang contrasts nicely with savory components, creating a balanced dish that stands out.

Tips for Success

Fresh cranberries will always provide the best flavor. You can use frozen ones, but be prepared for a longer roasting time.
Not a fan of tartness? Adjust the amount of honey or sugar to suit your taste preferences.
For a festive crunch, throw some chopped pecans or walnuts into the mix.

Variations

Maple Roasted Cranberries: Swap out honey for maple syrup to give them a rich flavor.
Spiced Cranberries: A pinch of cloves or ginger can kick up the spice level for those who enjoy a little heat.
Vegan Version: Stick with apple juice and coconut sugar to keep it plant-based.

Storage Tips

Once your roasted cranberries have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container. They should stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before moving to a freezer-friendly container, and they’ll last for up to three months.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
A: Yes, but they will need more time to roast and may end up a bit softer.

Q: How can I make this dish less sweet?
A: Simply cut back on the honey or sugar to achieve your desired level of sweetness.

Q: Can I make roasted cranberries ahead of time?
A: Definitely! They can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Q: What dishes pair well with roasted cranberries?
A: They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, as well as desserts and hearty salads.

Q: How do I know when they’re done roasting?
A: They’re finished when they’re soft, burst open, and the liquid has thickened nicely.

This roasted cranberries recipe not only tantalizes the palate but also enhances the visual and fragrant elements of any meal. Whether you serve them during the holiday season or with everyday dishes, they bring warmth and joy to your table. Easy to prepare and versatile, these sweet and tangy delights are sure to become a favorite in your culinary collection, full of flavor and seasonal spirit. Enjoy!