50 Best Cranberry Recipes for Thanksgiving

Need help searching for the best cranberry recipes for Thanksgiving? If so, I have you covered.

Below you’ll find 50, yes 50, of the best cranberry recipes for the big dinner. 

You’ll find some of the classics like cranberry sauce and cranberry cookies.

But there are also some unique ways to use the tart berry.

For instance, did you know you can make sizzling salsa or refreshing margaritas using cranberries? 

Has curiosity got the best of you? Good, then keep reading this list of the best cranberry recipes for Thanksgiving to learn more. 

1. Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is the unsung hero of the holidays.

It offers a sweet-tart flavor and a delicious burst of color to balance the savory components of Thanksgiving dinner. 

You can enjoy this cranberry sauce with your turkey, ham, and stuffing.

Or just eat it straight up with a spoon. It’s that good!

Best of all, you won’t believe how easy it is to whip up this sauce.

You can have this 3-ingredient recipe ready in just over half an hour.

2. Fresh Cranberry Sauce

You’ll love this fresh cranberry sauce because it doesn’t call for any fussy ingredients or complicated steps. 

All you need are cranberries, water, sugar, and an acidic component like orange juice or lemon juice. 

The citrus acidity helps the berries release their natural pectin so the sauce can thicken and set.

3. Mulled Cranberry Sauce

I love cranberry sauce, but I’ve never been one for the canned red stuff because it always comes out watery and bland.

This recipe solves that problem.

This mulled cranberry sauce is sweetened with red wine and candied ginger for an extra bite of flavor. 

4. Cranberry Sauce with Apples

If you want to shake up your time-old cranberry sauce, try adding apples.

You’ll love how much cozy sweetness results from this simple addition.

Combined with the cinnamon and sugar, this elevated side dish accompanies your holiday fare perfectly. 

5. Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce

Who knew making cranberry sauce from scratch could be so easy and quick?

You make this recipe in an Instant Pot, and it only takes 4 minutes.

The texture is sheer perfection, and the subtle sweetness will make you hungry for more. 

6. Cinnamon Orange Cranberry Sauce 

This cinnamon orange cranberry sauce is going to make waves at your next Thanksgiving dinner.

Your palate will adore the blend of bright orange citrus, sweet cranberries, and whole spices.

7. Homemade Cranberry Jelly

If you’re looking for an easy breezy Thanksgiving side dish to whip up last minute, it doesn’t get any easier than this cranberry jelly.

All you need are frozen cranberries, apple juice, and sugar to create this tasty recipe.

It’s sweet, tart, and much better than store-bought. 

8. Fresh Cranberry Relish 

You’ll love dousing this cranberry relish on everything, from turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole. It’s just that good. 

If you love the sweet and savory flavor combination, be sure to include this recipe for this year’s Thanksgiving. 

9. Cranberry Salsa 

If you’re growing a little tired of the same old cranberry sauce recipes, I have a unique entry that will blow your mind.

This cranberry relish is sweet, savory, and spicy.

It makes a great pairing with cream cheese and crackers for the ultimate party appetizer. 

10. Orange Cranberry Sauce with Cinnamon and Vanilla

This recipe elevates cranberry sauce to new frontiers by adding cinnamon and vanilla.

These two powerhouse flavors enhance the deep sweetness of the cranberries, creating a burst of complexity in every bite.

11. Apple Cranberry Crisp

Cranberries aren’t just for side dishes and sauces, they also make a fabulous addition to apple crisp.

If you like your sweets to be a little sour, you’ll definitely appreciate this recipe. It’s sugary, tart, crispy, and soft.

12. Fresh Cranberry Muffins 

Not sure what to serve for breakfast the morning after Thanksgiving? Put this festive recipe to good use.

These fresh cranberry muffins take just over half an hour to create, and the taste is out of this world.

Expect a fluffy, sweet cake with bright pops of cranberries for a tart twist. 

13. Cranberry Orange Cake

If you love the sweet, citrusy flavors of cranberry sauce, you’ll fall in love with this cake.

It’s the ideal combination of moist textures and festive flavors.

All you’re missing is a piping hot cup of Joe to complete this sweet treat.

14. Cranberry Orange Muffins

Even if you’re not a baker, you can have this no-fuss recipe completed in under an hour. It’s just that easy.

Whether you’re looking for a tasty breakfast, snack, or dessert, these cranberry orange muffins can do it all! 

15. Sugared Cranberries

If you want to make a sparkling dessert (literally), try making sugared cranberries.

Not only do they double as a holiday decoration but they’re so easy to make.

All you need are cranberries, sugar, and water to create this picture-perfect dessert. 

16. Cranberry Pie 

Who wouldn’t love sinking their teeth into this cranberry pie?

Every bite will tickle your taste buds with sugary, bright flavors full of holiday spirit.

The filling is delicious, but the best part of this dessert has to be the leaf-shaped garnish created from excess pie crust. 

17. Soft White Chocolate Chip Cranberry Cookies 

These white chocolate cranberry cookies might be your new favorite Thanksgiving staple.

Each bite is wonderfully chewy and bursting with sweet, tart flavors.

If you have never thought to pair white chocolate and cranberries before, this is your sign to try this fantastic duo. 

18. Cranberry Bundt Cake

This might be the best holiday cake I’ve ever laid eyes on. I mean, how does it get more festive than this artful presentation?

Between the moist cake, orange glaze, and sugared cranberries, you’re in for a heavy helping of holiday spirit. 

19. Lemon Cranberry Bars

These lemon cranberry bars are stacked with mouthwatering layers. 

You start with a buttery vanilla crust topped with a citrusy cranberry layer.

On top, you spread a coating of lemon custard to finish off these scrumptious bars.

20. Cranberry Orange Biscotti

Who doesn’t love some good biscotti? The crunchy texture is so irresistible to me that I always crave it.

We all know about vanilla and chocolate biscotti, but have you ever tried flavoring with cranberry and orange?

This recipe shows you the way and will help satisfy any cookie craving. 

21. Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze 

Move over banana bread, there’s a new tasty treat in town, and this one is loaded with holiday flavors.

Whether you need a Thanksgiving dessert or post-Christmas brunch, this cranberry bread will suit your needs. 

I don’t know what’s better, the melt-in-your-mouth texture, creamy orange glaze, or juicy pops of cranberries in every bite.

22. Cranberry Bliss Bars {Starbucks Copycat Recipe}

Are you a fan of the Starbucks cranberry bliss bars? If so, you need to try this homemade version. 

They are perfect for parties, gift-giving, or just to enjoy as a post-Thanksgiving dinner snack. 

You make this tasty dessert with cranberries, white chocolate chips, pecans, and citrus zest.

If this sounds like heaven to you, give these bars a shot. 

23. Cranberry Thumbprint Cookies

Thumbprint cookies are one of my all-time favorite holiday treats, and this recipe is no exception.

Not only are they easy to make, but they also taste absolutely incredible.

This recipe is also perfect for using leftover cranberry sauce and transforming the Thanksgiving condiment into a decadent treat. 

24. Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars 

These cranberry crumble pie bars are incredibly easy to make and come together in just over half an hour.

That means you can have more time to prep other Thanksgiving fare.

I don’t know what’s better, the rich, buttery shortbread crust or the citrusy cranberry filling. 

25. Cranberry Coconut Trifle (Rich Tropical Girls) 

This cranberry coconut trifle is just what you need to finish your holiday meal.

It comes together with minimal effort, and you can use up that leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving.

You’ll be blown away by how well the tart cranberry and sweet coconut go together in this delightful trifle. 

Don’t forget the ginger cookie crumble garnish to add some unforgettable crunch. 

26. Cranberry Cheesecake

Are you looking for an award-worthy Thanksgiving dessert?

This cranberry cheesecake is the ultimate festive treat, with a buttery graham cracker crust and tart cranberry filling.

You top this velvety cake with lightly sweetened whipped cream and sugared cranberries for a picture-perfect garnish.

Delicate, tart, and sweet, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit at the big dinner. 

27. Apple Cranberry Crisp

You won’t believe how good this cranberry apple crisp tastes. You’ll love the contrast of sweet apples and tart cranberries. 

The orange zest, cinnamon, and allspice give this recipe another touch of holiday cheer. 

This recipe is easy to throw together for a last-minute Thanksgiving side dessert.

Be sure to keep it in mind if you’re running short on time.

28. Apple Cranberry Pie 

Apple cranberry pie is one of my favorites, and it’s perfect for the holidays.

It’s so easy to make, and it is always a crowd-pleaser. 

You craft the braided crust from scratch to create a rich, crisp texture in the pie.

The filling is simple yet delicious and includes cranberries, apples, sugar, spices, and orange zest.

29. Cranberry Upside Down Cake

This cranberry upside-down cake needs to be a staple at your next holiday dinner.

It’s one of those recipes that looks show-stopping but is actually super easy to make. 

The cake is insanely moist and melts in your mouth and the caramelized cranberry garnish creates a sweet-tart finish. 

I guarantee your relatives will be asking for the recipe after dinner. 

30. Apple Walnut Cranberry Tart

As soon as the temps drop, I start fantasizing about rustic fall desserts.

If you’re like me, you won’t find a better recipe to ring in the fall season than this apple walnut cranberry tart.

It tastes like your favorite apple pie with extra crunch from the walnuts.

You’ll also love the hint of tartness, thanks to the cranberries.

If you’re looking for the ideal way to enjoy all the warm flavors of fall, you can’t beat this comforting dessert. 

31. Sparkling Cranberry Pineapple Punch 

Cranberry and pineapple are a unique combination that goes exceptionally well during the holidays.

Every sip unleashes a flurry of fizzy, tart flavors that taste super refreshing.

If you’re looking for a winning holiday punch, you’ll love this simple recipe. It’s a crowd-pleasing cocktail that everyone will enjoy. 

I mean, who would turn down a glass of this pretty pink drink?

32. Cosmopolitan Cocktail 

If you want to awaken your inner Carrie from Sex and the City, what better way than to make this stunning cosmopolitan? 

It might not be the first drink you think of when it comes to holiday bevies, but hear me out.

The sweet contrast of cranberry juice, sour lime, and sweet triple sec makes it the perfect drink for the festive season.

All you need are six simple ingredients to whip up this classic cocktail, so why not add it to your holiday menu? 

33. Grapefruit Cranberry Sea Breeze Cocktail

If the frigid temps have you daydreaming about a tropical getaway, indulge your fantasies with this grapefruit cranberry cocktail. 

Every sip tastes like a refreshing sea breeze while sunbathing on the beach. 

The best part about this cocktail is that you don’t need to splurge on different bottles of liquor.

You only need vodka, grapefruit, and cranberry juice to craft this drink.

34. Vodka Cranberry Cocktail 

This drink isn’t your go-to bar order of vodka cran.

This recipe revamps the classic combination by adding a touch of lime syrup and orange juice. 

Just by adding these two liquids, you can transform the bar rail classic into a flavorful cocktail that’s perfect for the holidays.

35. Cranberry Margarita 

Want to give your margarita a holiday makeover? Try adding cranberry juice to inject some festive flair.

It mixes deliciously with the triple sec and lime juice to create a very merry drink.

36. Balsamic Cranberry Chicken Thighs With Mushrooms

Cranberries are a mainstay at Thanksgiving, but why not let them make an appearance for weeknight dinners too? 

This recipe creates a mouthwatering roasted chicken bursting with sweet and fragrant flavors, thanks to cranberries, herbs, and balsamic vinegar. 

37. Cranberry Chicken 

This recipe is ready in half an hour and certainly aims to please. 

You’ll love serving this crisp chicken smothered in a tart cranberry sauce for a December weeknight dinner. 

38. Sheet Pan Cranberry Chicken and Stuffing 

If you’re trying to simplify your Thanksgiving meal prep, try this effortless recipe.

All you need is a single sheet pan to create a succulent turkey, cranberry sauce, and savory stuffing. 

39. Cranberry Apple Skillet Chicken

Are you looking to amp up the holiday cheer at your dinner table?

Look no further because this cranberry apple chicken will become your new family favorite recipe this fall.

You cook this chicken using apple cider to infuse a spiced-sweet flavor into every bite. 

40. Cranberry Orange Chicken 

Try making this one-pan meal for dinner tonight. I promise you won’t regret it. 

Between the juicy cranberries, zesty orange, and succulent chicken, you’re looking at one scrumptious meal.

41. Cranberry Turkey Meatballs

Infuse your meatballs with holiday cheer by making this ingenious recipe.

Every bite is juicy, flavorful, tangy, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory. 

Serve these bad boys as hor d’oeuvres at your next dinner party, and watch them fly off the platter.

42. Maple Cranberry Brussels Sprouts

I can’t think of a better Thanksgiving side dish than these maple cranberry Brussels sprouts.

Not only are they effortless to make, but they add some much-needed nutrition to a heavy holiday meal.

This recipe is vegan, paleo, and tastes so good, you’ll definitely make it again.

43. Cranberry and Walnut Stuffing

Anyone who knows me can attest to my love for stuffing. If you think like me, then you’ll fall in love with this recipe.

Every comforting bite contains dried cranberries, celery, walnuts, and fresh herbs. It’s fragrant, savory, and wholesome.

44. Harvest Chicken Casserole

Are you looking for a quick, nutritious meal to put on the dinner table tonight? Take this harvest chicken casserole for a spin.

You’ll appreciate the hearty amount of fall vegetables like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds.

45. Farro Fall Harvest Bowl 

This farro fall harvest bowl provides a lighter alternative to get your seasonal dose of festive food.

I don’t know what’s better, the hearty farro, roasted vegetables, or orange curry dressing drizzled on top.

46. Everyone’s Favorite Cranberry Salad 

This cranberry salad truly is everyone’s favorite.

That’s because this timeless recipe has held up generation after generation.

This cranberry salad is an acceptable way to indulge in some dessert during Thanksgiving dinner. What’s not to love about that?

47. Millionaire Cranberry Salad

After one bite of this sensational recipe, you’ll understand where the name comes from. 

There’s an incredible richness in every morsel, thanks to the combination of marshmallows, coconut, pineapple, and cranberry sauce. 

48. Kale Salad with Cranberries

This crowd-pleasing kale salad is a versatile dish for the holidays.

Whether you meal-prep it for work lunches or serve it as a side dish, this recipe will excel at all uses.

49. Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries 

Here’s another salad that offers a delicious way to get some greens.

You start by shredded Brussels sprouts, then adding dried cranberries, green onion, and carrots.

Then you drizzle a healthy portion of sweet and tangy dressing to complete this flavorful salad.

50. Apple Cranberry Salad 

I can’t think of a better autumn dish than this apple cranberry salad. 

Between the tart apples, sweet cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and tangy blue cheese, your palate is in for an uber-flavorful mouthful.