Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish: A Holiday Must-Try Recipe

Name: Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup dried figs, chopped; 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste); 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (plus zest for extra flavor)

Published: December 28, 2025

by Lisa

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This relish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings.
With its delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, it enhances any dish beautifully.
The vibrant colors make it visually stunning on your holiday table.
Best of all, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round with cheese platters or grilled meats.

Ingredients for Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish: A Flavorful Holiday Must-Try

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

Fresh Cranberries: Look for bright, firm berries; they should bounce when dropped!
Dried Figs: Choose chewy figs that are plump and moist; they bring rich sweetness to the relish.
Sugar: Granulated sugar enhances the natural sweetness of cranberries; adjust according to taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess and balances the sweetness; opt for organic if possible.
Fresh Orange Juice: Use juice from a fresh orange for zesty brightness; zest can be added for extra flavor.

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

How to Make Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish: A Flavorful Holiday Must-Try

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Make sure you have all ingredients laid out on your counter—it’s always easier when you can see what you’re working with!

Step 2: Cook Those Berries

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries, chopped dried figs, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and orange juice. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 3: Simmer Away

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to cook it down for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and create that lovely thick consistency.

Step 4: Cool It Down

Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before transferring it to a jar or bowl. Trust me—letting it sit brings those flavors together beautifully!

Step 5: Serve It Up

Drizzle this luscious relish over your holiday turkey or serve it alongside cheese at your next gathering. Everyone will wonder how you became a gourmet chef overnight!

Step 6: Store Leftovers

If there are any leftovers (which I doubt), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks—if you can resist eating it all in one sitting.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch!

You Must Know

This sweet cranberry and fig relish is not just a side dish; it’s the star of the holiday table.
With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike.
Plus, it’s quick to make and perfect for gift-giving!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by simmering cranberries with sugar and water until they burst. While that happens, you can chop figs and toast nuts. Once everything is ready, combine them and let the flavors meld.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the ingredients! Use orange juice instead of water for a zesty kick or add chopped apples for extra sweetness. The possibilities are endless, so make it your own!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover relish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through; this retains its delightful flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a deeper flavor, let your relish sit overnight before serving; it improves as it marinates.
Always taste before serving; you might want more sweetness or acidity.
When cooking cranberries, don’t rush—let them burst naturally for better texture.

There was a time when I brought this sweet cranberry and fig relish to a potluck. Everyone raved about it, and one friend even declared it “life-changing.” Who knew fruit could have such an impact?

FAQs :

What ingredients are needed for Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish?

To make Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish, you will need fresh cranberries, dried figs, sugar, orange juice, lemon zest, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. These ingredients combine to create a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. Fresh herbs can also enhance the flavor. This relish pairs beautifully with turkey or ham during holiday meals, making it a must-try for festive gatherings.

How long does Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish last in the fridge?

Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish can last up to two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making it even more delicious as it sits. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

Can I modify the recipe for Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish?

Yes! You can easily modify the Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish recipe to suit your taste. For instance, you might add other fruits like apples or pears for added sweetness. Adjusting the level of spices or using different types of nuts can also create unique variations. Feel free to experiment while keeping the core ingredients intact for that perfect holiday flavor.

What dishes pair well with Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish?

Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish complements various dishes beautifully. It is an excellent accompaniment to roasted meats like turkey or pork. Additionally, consider serving it alongside cheese platters or spreads on toast during brunches. Its versatile flavor enhances both sweet and savory dishes, making it perfect for any holiday feast.

Conclusion for Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish: A Flavorful Holiday Must-Try :

In summary, Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish is a vibrant addition to any holiday spread. With its balance of sweetness from figs and tartness from cranberries, this relish elevates your festive meals effortlessly. Easy to prepare ahead of time, it boasts a shelf life of up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Whether enjoyed with meats or as part of a cheese platter, this relish is truly a flavorful holiday must-try that everyone will love.

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📖 Recipe Card