Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
If you’re looking to elevate your holiday meal or just craving a delicious side that balances sweet and savory perfectly, this Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Combining the tartness of dried cranberries with the natural sweetness of crisp apples, all wrapped up in herbs and buttery toasted bread, it’s a magical blend that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your plate with comforting flavors. This stuffing is not only a beautiful addition to any feast but also a comforting hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome, and bursting with flavor, each ingredient in this Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe plays an essential role—from the crunchy apples and sweet dried cranberries to the fresh herbs and rich butter that tie it all together. Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:
- Day-old sourdough or whole grain bread (1 loaf, about 1 pound): Cubed bread gives the stuffing texture and a sturdy base to soak up all those juicy flavors.
- Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples (2 large, diced): Their crispness adds freshness and a lightly sweet contrast to the tart cranberries.
- Dried cranberries (1 cup): Bursts of tart sweetness that brighten every mouthful.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup or 1 stick): For rich sautéed veggies and adding moist, luscious flavor throughout.
- Large onion (1, diced): Adds depth and a savory sweetness when caramelized.
- Celery stalks (3, diced): For crunch and a classic stuffing flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a warm, aromatic backbone to the dish.
- Fresh sage (1/4 cup, chopped): Earthy and fragrant, perfect for holiday vibes.
- Fresh thyme leaves (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle herbal sweetness that rounds out the taste.
- Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): A woodsy kick that pairs beautifully with the apples and cranberries.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (2 cups): Keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful without weighing it down.
- Large eggs (2, beaten): Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance and balance all the flavors.
- Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts (1/2 cup): For adding a toasty crunch and nutty depth.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Bread Cubes
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for about 15 minutes, stirring once or twice to ensure even drying. This step is critical because perfectly dried bread soaks up the broth without turning mushy, giving your stuffing a fabulous texture that holds together beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and celery, cooking until they become soft and translucent—this usually takes 5 to 7 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for just another minute until fragrant. This mixture forms the savory flavor base that elevates your stuffing from ordinary to unforgettable.
Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs
Stir in the fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Let them cook with the vegetables for an additional minute to release their fragrant oils. These herbs infuse the dish with classic, comforting aromas that remind you of cozy fall afternoons and festive dinners.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the toasted bread cubes, your sautéed vegetables and herbs, diced apples, and dried cranberries. This blend ensures that every bite includes a wonderful combination of textures and flavors, from the chewy cranberries to the crisp apples and soft bread.
Step 5: Mix Broth and Eggs
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and 1 ½ cups of your chosen broth. This mixture will help bind your stuffing and keep it moist while baking. Pour this liquid over your bread and fruit mixture and gently fold everything together. If the bread seems dry, add a splash more broth, but be careful not to oversoak, as you want each cube moist but not drenched.
Step 6: Season and Add Nuts (Optional)
Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper to suit your taste. If you love a bit of crunch, now is the time to stir in those chopped pecans or walnuts. Nuts add a lovely texture contrast and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the fruit and herbs beautifully.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your mixture to a well-greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and has a little crisp to it. When done, it should be wonderfully fragrant and inviting.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Let your stuffing rest for about 10 minutes once out of the oven. This helps it set slightly so it’s easier to serve, and it gives the flavors a chance to meld even more, making each forkful truly delightful.
How to Serve Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few whole cranberries on top can add a lovely pop of color. For an extra festive touch, a light drizzle of melted butter just before serving gives a glossy finish and enhances the buttery goodness.
Side Dishes
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, baked ham, or even a savory roasted vegetable platter. It’s also fantastic alongside creamy mashed potatoes or glazed carrots to round out a warm and hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the stuffing inside hollowed-out acorn squash or individual mini pumpkin shells for a stunning autumnal presentation. Alternatively, use it as a stuffing for chicken breasts or pork chops, creating an impressive main course that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover stuffing in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it an easy next-day side dish or base for a hearty breakfast scramble.
Freezing
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months—perfect for prepping well ahead of time for holiday meals or busy weeknights.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the stuffing in the fridge overnight if frozen. Then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil so it heats through without drying out. Removing the foil in the last 10 minutes of heating will help crisp up the top again.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free bread for this Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your gluten-free bread is sturdy enough to hold up when toasted and soaked in broth. Cubing and toasting it well will help maintain good texture.
Can I make this stuffing vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The combination of herbs, apples, and cranberries will still deliver plenty of rich, savory flavor.
Is it better to use fresh or dried cranberries?
Dried cranberries are preferred because they add a concentrated tart sweetness and chewy texture that complements the bread and apples perfectly. Fresh cranberries tend to be too tart and can make the stuffing watery.
Can I prepare the stuffing mixture the day before baking?
Yes! Combine all ingredients except for the eggs and broth, then store the bread mixture in the fridge overnight. Add the egg and broth mixture just before baking for the best results.
How can I make the stuffing crispier on top?
Baking uncovered helps develop a crispy top layer. For extra crunch, sprinkle some crushed nuts or breadcrumbs atop the stuffing before baking and add a drizzle of melted butter.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe feels like sharing a little bit of love. It’s a dish that brings warmth to your table with a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and herby flavors that everyone can enjoy. Whether it’s for a festive occasion or a cozy family dinner, give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it a new tradition! Happy cooking!
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Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing combines the tartness of fresh apples and dried cranberries with aromatic herbs and buttery sautéed vegetables, creating a moist and flavorful side dish perfect for holiday meals or comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Bread and Fruit
- 1 loaf (about 1 pound) day-old sourdough or whole grain bread, cubed
- 2 large Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples, diced
- 1 cup dried cranberries
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Others
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast Bread: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly dry. Remove and set aside. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéeing until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Mix in the chopped sage, thyme, and rosemary. Continue cooking for an additional minute to release their flavors. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetable and herb mixture, diced apples, and dried cranberries.
- Mix Egg and Broth: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and 1 1/2 cups of the chicken or vegetable broth.
- Moisten Bread Mixture: Pour the egg and broth mixture over the bread mixture. Gently fold everything together to ensure each bread cube is moistened. If needed, add more broth to achieve a moist but not soggy consistency.
- Season and Add Nuts: Season generously with salt and pepper. If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts. Mix well.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the stuffing to rest for about 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and texture set.
Notes
- Using day-old bread is crucial to prevent sogginess; fresh bread will absorb too much moisture.
- Feel free to substitute herb quantities based on availability but keep sage as a primary flavor.
- Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Adding nuts adds a delightful crunch but can be omitted for nut-free diets.
- Stuffing can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: apple cranberry stuffing, holiday stuffing recipe, Thanksgiving side dish, autumn stuffing, sourdough stuffing
