31 Deliciously Sweet Cranberry Recipes for a Festive Holiday Season

Carmen Eldridge

October 17, 2025

Fresh from the world of berries, cranberries stand out with their unique tartness and explosive flavor profile. While classic cranberry sauce is a timeless favorite, there’s an incredible array of other mouth-watering cranberry recipes waiting to be discovered. We’re talking sweet treats like muffins, scones, and cakes, as well as savory dishes that showcase the versatility of this amazing ingredient.

Whether you have fresh, frozen, or canned cranberries at your disposal, get ready to indulge in some truly scrumptious creations.

Rustic Cranberry Galette

Rustic Cranberry Galette

Taking center stage at any gathering or celebration is a warm golden brown cranberry galette, making it an ideal choice for occasions like Christmas or Thanksgiving, as well as special events such as birthdays. The combination of bold, tart cranberries with sweet orange, creamy elements, and fresh raspberries creates a truly outstanding flavor profile. Whether you opt for fresh or frozen berries and choose your preferred type of pie crust, this versatile dessert is sure to impress.

Brie Cranberry Bites Appetizer

Brie Cranberry Bites Appetizer

Just imagine the combination of creamy brie cheese and sweet cranberry sauce wrapped in a delicate puff pastry, creating a delightful little treat that’s sure to impress at any gathering. These bite-sized morsels are perfect for any occasion or season, offering a perfect balance of flavours with each delicious bite.

Cranberry And White Chocolate Blondies

Cranberry And White Chocolate Blondies

Making the perfect sweet treats at home can be incredibly rewarding, especially when they’re as delightful as these cranberry and white chocolate blondies. With their sweet, buttery, soft, and chewy texture, it’s no wonder why they make a great dessert or anytime sweet treat. Whether you’re looking for something to indulge in after dinner or a quick on-the-go snack, these delicious blondies fit the bill perfectly.

Berry Granola

Berry Granola

Veering away from traditional granola recipes that often include gluten-containing ingredients, this recipe offers a hearty and delicious alternative that’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Featuring a blend of oats, nuts, seeds, and dried berries, it’s infused with the sweet flavors of coconut, maple syrup, and cinnamon, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or snack time, whether enjoyed with milk, yogurt, or devoured by the handful!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet it yields a satisfying crunch that’s sure to become a favorite.

Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies Recipe

Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies Recipe

Understandably, these cookies are perfect for the fall season, as they evoke a sense of warmth and comfort with their combination of oatmeal, dried cranberries, and spices. The addition of white chocolate chips adds a touch of sweetness, making them an ideal treat to serve at a gathering or enjoy on a chilly afternoon.

Pineapple Cranberry Brie Crescent Ring Appetizer

Pineapple Cranberry Brie Crescent Ring Appetizer

Making a delicious impression on your guests is easier than you think, especially when it comes to seasonal appetizers like this stunning cranberry brie crescent ring. Perfectly suited for Fall and Winter gatherings, this edible wreath is not only visually appealing but also boasts a unique flavor combination that will leave everyone wanting more.

Just Like Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Copycat Recipe

Just Like Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Copycat Recipe

Helping you satisfy your festive cravings, I’m excited to share with you a beloved favourite among coffee lovers – Starbucks’ cranberry bliss bars. This scrumptious copycat recipe is an exact replica of the original, packed with a symphony of flavours including vanilla, white chocolate, juicy cranberries, and a hint of orange. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for adding to your list of top-notch cranberry recipes.

Cranberry Orange Prosecco Punch

Cranberry Orange Prosecco Punch

Fresh from the flavors of Fall and Thanksgiving celebrations comes a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for the season: Cranberry orange prosecco punch. The vibrant combination of orange and cranberry juices creates a festive and fruity taste experience, while the addition of prosecco adds a delightful effervescence.

Whether you’re hosting guests or simply want to enjoy a special drink during Thanksgiving, this punch is an excellent choice to serve in a pitcher and savor throughout the holiday period.

Sparkling Frosted Cranberry Cookies

Sparkling Frosted Cranberry Cookies

Among the many sweet treats that are perfect for the holiday season, Christmas cranberry cookies stand out as a delicious and visually appealing option. These sugar cookies topped with cranberries offer an easy way to add a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving and Christmas desserts. The combination of sugared cranberries and homemade cookies, paired with a simple buttercream frosting, creates festive treats that embody the true spirit of holiday cheer.

Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket

Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket

A delightful twist on traditional holiday dishes, this cranberry holiday beef brisket is sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of a large, slow-cooked brisket with fresh cranberries or cranberry jelly creates a flavorsome recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a Jewish holiday, Christmas dinner, or just a cozy night in during the winter months.

Its versatility and delectable taste make this dish an excellent choice to serve at any time of year you’re feeling festive.

Spiked Pineapple Bourbon Cranberry Sauce

Spiked Pineapple Bourbon Cranberry Sauce

Delight your guests this holiday season with Spiked Pineapple Bourbon Cranberry Sauce, the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking for a unique twist on traditional Thanksgiving turkey, or want to add some excitement to your ham or chicken, this sweet and tangy sauce is sure to impress. Its complex flavor profile pairs perfectly with creamy brie cheese and fresh cranberries, making it an ideal topping for a brie and cranberry wreath.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations – this versatile sauce is ready to take center stage at your next dinner party or holiday gathering.

Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak

Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak

Not only does the idea of cranberry cream cheese stuffed flank steak evoke a sense of luxury, but it’s also incredibly versatile as a holiday dinner option. The sound of this recipe alone should make your mouth water in anticipation of the flavors that await. Whether you’re planning for New Year’s Eve, Thanksgiving, or Christmas, this dish is sure to impress with its combination of elegance and taste. The best part?

It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, even for those who might be intimidated by the thought of stuffing and rolling a butterflied flank steak.

Cranberry Lemon Pistachio Wreath Cookies

Cranberry Lemon Pistachio Wreath Cookies

Family traditions are an essential part of the holiday season, and baking with loved ones is a big part of that. My mom has been perfecting this recipe for cranberry lemon pistachio cookies over many years, and I’m thrilled to continue making them as well. One of the things I love most about these cookies is not just their vibrant appearance, but also the delightful combination of flavours – the tartness of the lemon icing stands out against the sweetness of the dough.

As a result, it’s become an cherished tradition for me to bake and decorate these festive cookies every holiday season.

Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing

Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing

Discover the ultimate twist on traditional Thanksgiving and Christmas stuffing – an air fryer version infused with the rich flavors of whiskey, savory sausage, and sweet cranberries. By using your air fryer to bake this delicious concoction, you’ll have more room in your oven or on the stovetop for other dishes. This recipe is perfect for holiday meals, as it’s easy to prepare and cooks quickly in the air fryer.

Did you know that you can also make a bourbon or whiskey-based stuffing with pork sausage using this method? It’s a game-changer! The result is an incredibly tasty dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

Cranberry Orange Biscotti with White Chocolate Drizzle

Cranberry Orange Biscotti with White Chocolate Drizzle

Kicking off the festive season, cranberry orange biscotti are a perfect treat that combines the tanginess of dried cranberries and the warmth of citrus flavours. Known for their dry texture, biscotti are traditionally dipped into hot beverages, making them an ideal snack for the holiday period. This recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites during the festive season, especially with the addition of a sweet white chocolate drizzle.

Skillet Cranberry Leek Chicken

Skillet Cranberry Leek Chicken

Versatile dishes like skillet cranberry leek chicken are ideal for holiday gatherings, as they can be easily prepared in advance and served to a crowd. The unique combination of flavors and textures creates a truly memorable dining experience. The tartness of the cranberries perfectly balances the sweetness of the sauce, creating an irresistible pairing with simply sautéed chicken breasts.

This recipe showcases the versatility of cranberries as a grown-up flavor component that complements simple sautéed chicken without overpowering it.

Cranberry Chocolate Overnight Oats

Cranberry Chocolate Overnight Oats

Renowned for their delicious flavor combination, cranberry chocolate overnight oats offer a super hearty and healthy breakfast option that can be meal-prepped ahead and enjoyed all week. As the perfect fall flavored breakfast choice, these oats really do deliver on both taste and convenience, making them an ideal option for those looking to start their day off right.

Baked Brie with Cranberry Raspberry Sauce

Baked Brie with Cranberry Raspberry Sauce

Just as the perfect appetizer can set the tone for a successful party, this baked brie recipe does just that. The combination of sweet and tart flavors is achieved through the use of a cranberry-raspberry sauce that’s both delicious on its own and perfectly balanced by the creamy brie cheese. Adding a touch of pure maple syrup takes it to the next level, providing an extra layer of sweetness and depth of flavor.

Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce

Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce

Creating a stunning and effortless appetizer for any occasion is as simple as making this warm baked Brie with cranberry sauce. The perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors will leave your guests wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a last-minute gathering or planning an elegant dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Just imagine the ooey, gooey melty brie, paired perfectly with the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce – it’s a match made in heaven!

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, as it can be prepared in no time, making it the ultimate stress-free appetizer for any season.

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Delivering on its promise of ease and simplicity, this homemade cranberry sauce recipe is a game-changer for Thanksgiving enthusiasts. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen cranberries, this recipe guarantees a delicious outcome with minimal effort required. What’s more, the ingredients are likely already stocked in your pantry, making it an excellent choice for a stress-free holiday season.

With its quick prep time and versatile flavor profile, it’s no wonder why many cooks return to this recipe year after year.

Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cranberries

Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cranberries

Getting into the holiday spirit just got a whole lot easier with this simple yet impressive cranberry sauce recipe using dried cranberries. Whether you’re looking to repurpose pantry staples or can’t find fresh ones in time for Thanksgiving, this sauce is sure to delight your family and friends. It’s not only incredibly flavorful but also maintains its shape beautifully, making it perfect for topping turkey or using as a side dish year-round.

Apple Cranberry Tart

Apple Cranberry Tart

Bringing together the sweetness of cranberries and apples in a single dessert, the Cranberry tart with apple is a sophisticated and visually appealing treat that rivals any store-bought version. Adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream and a dollop of whipped cream on top elevates this festive confection to new heights.

Couscous with Pecans and Cranberries

Couscous with Pecans and Cranberries

Redefining the traditional tart recipes, this particular dessert stands out for its unique combination of flavors. The sweetness of apple pairs harmoniously with cranberries, which have a subtle balance of sweet and sour notes. This simplicity in preparation makes it an excellent option for holiday gatherings, potentially becoming one of your most beloved dishes.

How to Dry Cranberries

How to Dry Cranberries

Culinary enthusiasts often rave about the versatility of dried cranberries, which strike a perfect balance between sweet and tart flavors. These chewy morsels can be effortlessly paired with both sweet treats and savory dishes, elevating their flavor profiles in an instant. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, requiring only two basic ingredients to create these deliciously tangy bites. In fact, you can even achieve the same result by using a single ingredient – fresh cranberries.

With such minimal requirements, drying your own cranberries at home is surprisingly easy and a great way to preserve their flavor and texture.

Cranberry Almond Coleslaw

Cranberry Almond Coleslaw

Transform the flavor of your holiday gatherings with a refreshing twist on traditional slaw recipes. This healthy cranberry almond coleslaw is not only sugar-free but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for families and friends to enjoy together this season.

Dried Cranberry Jelly

Dried Cranberry Jelly

For many people, recipes featuring cranberries are a must-have for Thanksgiving. If you find yourself in a pinch and need to whip something up at the last minute, this recipe using dried cranberries is perfect for you. It’s incredibly quick and easy to make, regardless of whether you choose to sieve the cranberries or not. The end result will be either a delicious cranberry jelly or jam, depending on your preference.

Pineapple Cranberry Sauce

Pineapple Cranberry Sauce

Venture away from the traditional holiday side dish this season by introducing a vibrant and zesty pineapple cranberry sauce that’s sure to become everyone’s new favorite! With its radiant flavors of fresh pineapple and tart cranberries, it’s surprising that this recipe is actually lower in sugar than many commercial cranberry sauces.

Cranberry & Pistachio White Chocolate Bark

Cranberry & Pistachio White Chocolate Bark

Adding a touch of festive flair to your holiday season is as easy as making this delicious Cranberry and Pistachio White Chocolate Bark. Unlike traditional almond bark, this recipe substitutes pistachios for a unique twist on a classic treat. With its simplicity and combination of flavors, fans of white chocolate, cranberries, and pistachios will adore this easy-to-make holiday confection.

Whether you’re looking to add some variety to your cookie exchange or just want a tasty gift idea, this Cranberry & Pistachio White Chocolate Bark is sure to impress.

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