Imagine a sauce so delightful, it transforms your holiday table from ordinary to extraordinary! This Crock Pot Apple Cranberry Sauce is not just a condiment – it's a flavor explosion that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Forget store-bought sauces; this homemade version is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that perfectly balance sweet and tart, creating a magical accompaniment that elevates everything from roast turkey to morning toast.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups apples, peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup orange juice
Instructions
- Wash and prepare the apples by peeling and dicing them into roughly 1/2-inch cubes. Choose firm, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn for best results.
- Rinse the fresh cranberries thoroughly and remove any stems or damaged berries.
- Grease the inside of the crock pot with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Add the diced apples and fresh cranberries into the crock pot, spreading them evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle the sugar and ground cinnamon over the fruit, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour the orange juice over the fruit mixture, which will help create moisture and enhance the sauce's flavor.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to low heat setting. Cook for 4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- After 4 hours, the fruits will have broken down and created a thick, rich sauce. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to reach desired consistency.
- Let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer to storage containers. Refrigerate for up to 7 days.
Tips
- Apple Selection Matters: Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor profile.
- Cranberry Prep: Always rinse cranberries and remove any stems or mushy berries to ensure a clean, fresh taste.
- Prevent Burning: Grease your crock pot and stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking or burning.
- Texture Control: Use a potato masher for a chunky sauce or an immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This sauce can be refrigerated for up to 7 days, making it perfect for holiday meal prep.
- Flavor Enhancement: For extra depth, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm or chilled, and don't limit yourself – this sauce is amazing with chicken, pork, or even as a spread on morning toast!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
