Apple Cranberry Stuffing

Name: Apple Cranberry Stuffing
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients: 1 loaf of bread, cubed; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 large apple, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 4 cups vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday feast with this delightful Apple Cranberry Stuffing recipe. Bursting with the flavors of sweet apples, tart cranberries, and aromatic herbs, this dish perfectly complements turkey or serves as a comforting vegetarian option. A cozy twist on traditional stuffing that adds a festive touch to your table!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T06:51:09.936Z

This recipe has been a family favorite for years. The combination of apples and cranberries brings a unique sweetness that your loved ones will cherish.

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Delicious blend of flavors
Perfect for holiday dining
Easily customizable with your favorite herbs

      

The Perfect Holiday Side Dish

Apple Cranberry Stuffing stands out as a beloved side dish during the holiday season. Its harmonious blend of sweet apples and tangy cranberries adds a unique twist to classic stuffing recipes. This dish not only enhances the flavors of your turkey, but it also offers a delightful standalone vegetarian option for those seeking a hearty and flavorful meal.

When served alongside roasted turkey, the bright notes of the cranberries cut through the richness of the meat, creating a balanced plate. Moreover, adding this stuffing to your holiday table introduces a colorful element that is visually appealing, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Customizing Your Stuffing

One of the great things about Apple Cranberry Stuffing is its versatility. You can easily tailor the recipe to suit your taste or to accommodate dietary preferences. For instance, trying different types of bread, such as sourdough or whole grain, can present varying textures and flavors that enhance the dish.

Additionally, feel free to swap out the herbs mentioned in the recipe. Fresh rosemary, parsley, or even some crushed walnuts can elevate the stuffing further. With these adjustments, you not only create a dish uniquely yours, but you may also introduce delightful flavor combinations that surprise and delight your family and friends.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Apple Cranberry Stuffing pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses beyond turkey. It complements roasted chicken beautifully and can even serve as an enchanting side for a festive vegetarian main like stuffed squash or a mushroom Wellington. The fruity undertones of the stuffing contribute to a well-rounded meal that your guests will remember.

When serving this stuffing, consider adding a fresh green salad on the side, dressed with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stuffing. For drinks, a moderately spiced holiday cider or a crisp white wine can harmonize wonderfully with the dish's ingredients.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 loaf of bread, cubed
2 cups fresh cranberries
1 large apple, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, diced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried sage
4 cups vegetable broth

Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring the bread absorbs the flavors and liquids.

Instructions

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast it in the oven for about 10 minutes until golden brown.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until soft, about 5 minutes.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, sautéed vegetables, diced apple, cranberries, thyme, and sage. Pour the vegetable broth over the mixture and toss gently.

Bake

Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.

Let the stuffing rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Tips for Making Ahead

If you’re planning a large holiday gathering, making your stuffing ahead of time can alleviate some of the stress on the big day. You can prepare the ingredients and combine them a day in advance. Just cover the mixing bowl and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it off. This way, you can simply pop it in the oven and enjoy your time with family and friends.

Some people even prefer letting the stuffing sit overnight to allow the flavors to meld. Just be sure to check the consistency before baking; you may want to add a little more broth to ensure the stuffing is moist and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers after your holiday feast, storing them properly will ensure you can enjoy them again. Let the stuffing cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days.

For longer storage, consider freezing your stuffing. Divide it into portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for the best texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving.

→ Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness.