Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe

Name: Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of French bread, cubed; 2 cups of diced apples; 1 cup of dried cranberries; 1 onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1/2 cup of unsalted butter; 2 cups of vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon of dried thyme; 1 teaspoon of dried sage; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday meal with this delightful Apple Cranberry Stuffing. Bursting with the sweetness of fresh apples and tart cranberries, this dish combines savory herbs and buttery bread for a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, this stuffing will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-17T12:58:17.603Z

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Easy to make
Perfect balance of sweet and savory
Great for holiday gatherings

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Apple Cranberry Stuffing is not just reserved for Thanksgiving; it's a versatile dish that suits any festive gathering. Whether you're celebrating Christmas, hosting a dinner party, or simply enjoying a family meal, this stuffing adds a flavorful twist to your table. The combination of sweet apples and tart cranberries complements a variety of main courses, making it an excellent side that everyone will love.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to adapt to different tastes. You can easily modify the ingredients based on seasonal produce or personal preferences. Swap out the apples for pears in the fall, or try adding nuts for an extra crunch. This stuffing is a canvas for creativity in the kitchen.

Healthier Holiday Eating

As we navigate through the holiday season, finding healthier alternatives to traditional recipes can be a challenge. This Apple Cranberry Stuffing incorporates whole ingredients that not only taste great but also offer nutritional benefits. The addition of fresh fruit increases fiber content while dried cranberries contribute antioxidants, making this dish a healthier option.

Moreover, by opting for unsalted butter and using vegetable broth, you have control over the salt content. This simple adjustment can make a big difference for those who are watching their sodium intake. Enjoy the richness of flavors without compromising on health, making it possible to indulge guilt-free.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers of this delicious Apple Cranberry Stuffing, storing them properly will help maintain its flavor and texture. Allow the stuffing to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat while covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

For those who love to plan ahead, this stuffing can be made in advance. Assemble all the ingredients without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. On the day of your event, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. This makes it a stress-free addition to your holiday meal prep!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 loaf of French bread, cubed
2 cups of diced apples
1 cup of dried cranberries
1 onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1/2 cup of unsalted butter
2 cups of vegetable broth
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1 teaspoon of dried sage
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Bread

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

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine toasted bread, diced apples, dried cranberries, sautéed vegetables, herbs, salt, and pepper. Pour vegetable broth over the mixture and gently toss to combine.

Bake the Stuffing

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes for a crispy top.

Enjoy!

Substitutions and Variations

While this recipe shines with its original ingredients, experimenting with substitutions can lead to delightful new flavors. Consider using gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option or exploring different types of apples to find the perfect sweet-tart balance that suits your palate. Adding nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can enhance the texture and add a rich, nutty flavor.

For a touch of warmth, you can introduce spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. These aromatic spices pair wonderfully with apples and cranberries. Remember, cooking is all about making a dish your own, so feel free to get creative and personalize the stuffing to match your family's preferences.

Serving Suggestions

To truly elevate your holiday meal experience, consider how you serve this Apple Cranberry Stuffing. Serving the dish family-style in a beautiful bowl can create a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging guests to serve themselves and enjoy seconds. For a more sophisticated touch, garnish the stuffing with fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, just before serving.

Pair this stuffing not only with traditional holiday turkeys but also with ham or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate. The sweet and savory flavors of the stuffing complement a wide range of dishes, making it an ideal accompaniment for any festive menu.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.

→ Is this stuffing gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread.