Berry Fruit | Vegan Gluten Free Low Calorie

Cranberry

Vaccinium macrocarpon Allergen-Free
cranberry

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Ericaceae
  • Primary Cuisine North American
  • Seasonality Fall (September-November)
  • Source Cranberry plant

The Forktionary Angle

"The Ruby Jewel of the Wetlands"

Definition

A small, tart, red berry native to North America, often used in juices, sauces, and dried forms due to its unique flavor and health benefits.

Sensory Profile

TasteVery Tart, Astringent, Slightly Bitter
TextureFirm, Juicy, Slightly Crunchy (skin)
AromaFresh, Fruity, Slightly Pungent
AcidityHigh

Technical Metrics

Global Production

~400,000 metric tons/year

Shelf Life (Fresh)

2-4 weeks refrigerated

Vitamin C Content

~14mg per 100g

Nutrition Facts

Per 1/2 cup (55g)
Calories46 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.4 g
Total Carbohydrate12.2 g
Dietary Fiber4.6 g
Total Sugars4 g
Calcium8 mg
Iron0.3 mg
Potassium85 mg

Chef’s Secret

Freezing fresh cranberries before chopping makes them easier to work with, especially for quick breads or muffins.

Substitutions

Best Match

Red Currants

1:1

Similar tartness and color, good for sauces and jams.

Lingonberries

1:1

Very similar tart flavor, popular in Scandinavian cuisine.

Pomegranates (seeds)

1:1

Tartness and juicy burst, different texture.

Sour Cherries

1:1

Tartness, good for baking, distinct cherry flavor.

Buying Guide

Look for firm, plump, bright red berries. Avoid soft or shriveled ones.

Flavor Pairings

Turkey chicken pork oranges apples cinnamon pecans cheese.

Recipes Using Cranberry

Preparation Camping To Go Course

Get Up Go Bars

Fuel your morning with these energizing Get Up & Go Breakfast Bars! Packed with fiber and delicious flavor, these homemade bars are the perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack. Inspired by a classic recipe, these bars are so satisfying, you'll be ready to conquer your day. Perfect with your morning coffee!

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Brunch Main Ingredient Preparation Occasion

Almond Cranberry Bread

This delightful Almond Cranberry Bread recipe, adapted from an Ocean Spray flyer, is a holiday classic! Enjoy the perfect blend of tart cranberries and crunchy almonds in a moist and flavorful quick bread. This updated recipe includes both chopped almonds in the batter (optional) and sliced almonds for a beautiful topping. Get ready to bake up a batch of deliciousness – perfect for gifting or enjoying with your morning coffee!

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Low In Something Gifts Course Occasion

Almond Cranberry Biscotti

Craveable Almond Cherry Biscotti! This recipe, adapted from the Plumercrest Bed and Breakfast, delivers twice-baked, crunchy perfection. We've swapped cranberries for sweet, juicy dried cherries, creating an irresistible treat perfect for dunking in coffee or enjoying on its own. Get ready for a delightful crunch in every bite!

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Cauliflower Main Ingredient Vegetables 15 Minutes Or Less

Amish Broccoli Salad

Craveable Amish Broccoli Salad recipe! This creamy, dreamy salad is bursting with fresh broccoli and cauliflower, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese. A simple yet irresistible side dish perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a weeknight dinner.

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American Vegetarian Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less

Apple And Dried Cranberry Crisp

Warm up your autumn evenings with this easy-to-make Apple & Dried Cranberry Crisp! Bursting with sweet apples, tart cranberries, and a buttery oat topping, this comforting dessert is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Get ready for a taste of fall in every bite!

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Free Of Something Low Sodium Meat Low Fat

Apple Cinnamon Pork Tenderloin

This show-stopping Apple Cinnamon Pork Tenderloin with Cranberries is surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers incredible flavor! A perfect Christmas alternative to a traditional turkey dinner, this recipe boasts a beautiful color thanks to the addition of dried cranberries. Enjoy a juicy, tender pork tenderloin bathed in a sweet and tart apple cider glaze. Easily customizable to your taste, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite!

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Beginner Cook Holiday Event Healthy Beginner Cook

Apple Orchard Punch

This refreshing Apple Orchard Punch recipe is incredibly easy to make and perfect for any gathering! Bursting with the flavors of apple, cranberry, and orange, this delightful punch is elevated with a touch of ginger ale and beautiful apple slices. Double the recipe for a crowd-pleasing drink that will leave everyone wanting more. Get ready for a taste of autumn in every sip!

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Time To Make Canadian American Cuisine

Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash

Delight your taste buds with this autumnal masterpiece! Sweet and tart apples mingle with zesty orange and juicy cranberries inside tender acorn squash. A touch of maple syrup and crunchy pecans create a flavor explosion that's both comforting and sophisticated. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday side dish.

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Healthy 2 Course Condiments Etc Time To Make

Apple Topping For Pancakes Waffles Such

Elevate your breakfast with this irresistible cinnamon-spiced apple topping! Perfect for pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or even ice cream, this recipe from the Black Dog Inn B&B in Estes Park, Colorado, is bursting with autumnal flavor. Mix and match apple varieties for a complex sweetness, and add a touch of festive flair with raisins or dried cranberries. The simple recipe allows for customization – leave it chunky for a rustic feel or blend it smooth for a decadent sauce. Get ready for a taste of Colorado comfort!

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Number Of Servings 4 Hours Or Less Number Of Servings Cakes

Applesauce Cake For Diabetics

Indulge your sweet tooth without the guilt! This moist and delicious applesauce cake is perfect for diabetics. Low in sugar and bursting with apple flavor, it's a healthier dessert alternative you'll crave. Easily customizable – rinse craisins to reduce sugar content or substitute with raisins. Adapted from Mabel Cavaiani's "Desserts for Diabetics", this low-rise cake is like a healthier, sweeter brownie or snack cake. Prepare to impress!

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Cakes Equipment Cuisine 4 Hours Or Less

Aunt Nan's Cranberry Pudding

This family-favorite cranberry pudding recipe has been a Christmas tradition for generations! Easy to make ahead and freeze for later, this delightful treat features tender cranberry-studded muffins topped with a luscious warm butter sauce. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.

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Seasonal Kid Friendly Occasion Savory

Autumn Main Dish Salad

Embrace the vibrant flavors of fall with this hearty and delicious main dish salad! This recipe combines crisp autumn greens, juicy seasonal fruits, and crunchy nuts for a satisfying and healthy meal your whole family will love. Featuring locally sourced apples (check your local orchard!), smoky bacon (or smoked turkey for a non-pork option), and a delightful blend of fall spices, this salad is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a portable lunch packed in wraps. Serve alongside your favorite bread, biscuits, or cornbread for a complete and unforgettable autumn experience.

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Dietary Dietary Course Main Ingredient

Baked Apple Cranberry French Toast

Warm up your mornings with this irresistible Baked Apple Cranberry French Toast Casserole! A delightful twist on classic French toast, featuring sweet apples, tart cranberries, and a buttery, eggy custard. This make-ahead breakfast bake is perfect for holiday brunches, weekend mornings, or impressing your family and friends. Guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Cobblers And Crisps 4 Hours Or Less Desserts Puddings And Mousses

Baked Apple Pudding

Lucy Waverman's sensational Baked Apple Pudding! This isn't your grandma's steamed pudding. This light and delightful apple dessert, baked to perfection, is a show-stopping finale for Christmas dinner or any special occasion. Imagine tender apples, crunchy pecans, and tart cranberries nestled in a rich caramel base, topped with your favorite sauce – caramel, crème anglaise, or classic vanilla ice cream. Get ready for rave reviews!

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5 Ingredients Or Less Occasion Cuisine Healthy

Baked Brandied Cranberries

Indulge in the irresistible sweetness and tang of these baked brandied cranberries! Perfectly plump and bursting with flavor, this easy recipe elevates the classic cranberry sauce to a whole new level. The brandy adds a sophisticated warmth, beautifully balancing the tartness of the cranberries, while the sugar provides the perfect touch of sweetness. A festive and elegant side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering!

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Berries Dietary Low In Something Low Cholesterol

Baked Brandy Cranberry Sauce

This simple 3-ingredient cranberry sauce recipe is unbelievably delicious! Baked to perfection in just one hour, the brandy adds a sophisticated warmth that elevates this classic holiday side dish. Easy enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions. Get ready to impress!

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Main Ingredient Side Dishes Low Protein Low Sodium

Baked Cranberry Acorn Squash

This autumnal recipe transforms sweet acorn squash into a delicious and festive side dish. Bursting with tart cranberries and warming spices, this baked cranberry acorn squash is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall gathering. Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, it's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress!

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Valentines Day Dietary Preparation Christmas

Basic Shortbread With Variations

Indulge in the buttery goodness of homemade shortbread cookies! This recipe provides a classic base recipe with exciting variations: white chocolate dipped, cranberry clementine, pecan macadamia bites, and sugar stars. Perfect for holiday baking or any special occasion, these melt-in-your-mouth cookies pair perfectly with a warm cup of French vanilla coffee. Yield and baking time may vary depending on thickness and size, so follow the instructions for perfectly baked shortbread every time!

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