Delightful Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe for Holidays

Name: Delightful Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz fresh cranberries; 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste); Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1 cinnamon stick (optional)

Published: December 25, 2025

by Lisa

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful cranberry relish is effortless to prepare, taking just minutes to whip up.
Its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors adds a festive touch to any holiday meal.
The vibrant red color makes it visually stunning on your dinner table.
Plus, this versatile dish pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even as a spread for sandwiches!

Ingredients for Delightful Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe for Holidays

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Cranberries: Look for bright red berries; they should be firm to the touch and free from blemishes.
Granulated Sugar: This helps balance the tartness of the cranberries; feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.
Orange Zest: Use fresh zest to add a lovely citrus aroma and flavor that elevates the relish.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice enhances the flavor profile; bottled juice can work in a pinch but isn’t as flavorful.
Cinnamon Stick: This adds warmth and depth to the relish; you can omit it if you prefer a simpler flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Delightful Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe for Holidays

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries under cool water. Remove any that look shriveled or squishy; we want only the best berries in our relish!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and cinnamon stick. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Cook Until Bursting

Bring the mixture to a boil and watch closely! Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll hear those cranberries popping like tiny party balloons—this means they are bursting with deliciousness!

Step 4: Cool Down

Remove from heat and let it cool at room temperature for about an hour. The relish will thicken as it cools—like magic!

Step 5: Chill Out

Transfer your cranberry relish into a serving bowl or jar and refrigerate for at least two hours before serving. It allows all those flavors to mingle beautifully.

Step 6: Serve Up

When ready to serve, take it out of the fridge and enjoy this delightful treat alongside turkey, ham, or even on its own as a refreshing snack!

This delightful Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe for Holidays brings together flavors that sing in harmony with every bite. So gather your loved ones around the table and watch them dive into this delectable dish—it could very well steal the show this holiday season!

You Must Know

This delightful Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe for holidays is not just a dish; it’s a celebration in a bowl!
With its vibrant colors and zesty flavors, it adds a pop to any holiday feast.
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making you the star of the dinner table without breaking a sweat.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries and picking out any rogue berries that decided to crash the party. Next, combine them with sugar and orange zest in a pot. Stir everything together while cooking on medium heat until the cranberries burst into joyful submission and create a beautiful sauce.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to toss in some chopped nuts or diced apples for an extra crunch! You can also switch out the orange zest for lemon or lime if you want a different zing. Experimenting with spices like cinnamon or ginger can also elevate this relish to new delicious heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cranberry relish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. When reheating, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature. It tastes fantastic cold too!

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in your relish, taste your cranberries before adding sugar.
Always opt for fresh cranberries for best flavor and texture.
If you want a smoother consistency, blend your relish after cooking for a few seconds.

Sometimes I whip up this cranberry relish when I’m feeling nostalgic about family gatherings. One time, my cousin declared it “the best thing ever,” which was great until he asked if I could make it every week!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for the Delightful Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe for Holidays?

To make this delectable cranberry relish, gather fresh cranberries, sugar, orange zest, and a splash of orange juice. You can also add walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. These ingredients combine to create a vibrant and tangy relish that perfectly complements holiday meals. Ensure to use quality cranberries for the best taste. This simple recipe allows you to enjoy the freshness of cranberries while enhancing your holiday dining experience.

How long can I store my cranberry relish?

You can store your Delightful Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will continue to meld and develop over time, making it even tastier as it sits. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container to preserve its flavor and texture. Thaw it in the fridge before serving for the best results.

Can I make this cranberry relish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing your Delightful Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish recipe ahead of time is a great idea. Make it at least one day in advance to allow the flavors to blend beautifully. After preparing, simply refrigerate until you are ready to serve it with your holiday meal. This not only saves time on the day of your gathering but also enhances the taste, making your dish even more delightful.

What dishes pair well with cranberry relish?

Your Delightful Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish pairs wonderfully with various holiday dishes. It complements roasted turkey and ham beautifully, adding a sweet-tart contrast that enhances their flavors. Additionally, try serving it alongside cheese platters or spread on sandwiches for added zest. This versatile relish can elevate any festive meal, making it a must-have addition to your holiday table.

Conclusion for Delightful Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe for Holidays :

In summary, the Delightful Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe for Holidays is an easy yet flavorful addition to your festive meals. With simple ingredients like fresh cranberries and orange zest, you can create a vibrant dish that enhances any main course. Remember to prepare this relish in advance so that the flavors develop fully. Whether served with turkey or enjoyed on its own, this relish is sure to impress your guests and become a cherished holiday tradition. Enjoy every bite!

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📖 Recipe Card