Irresistible Cinnamon and Nutmeg Cranberry Relish Recipe

Name: Irresistible Cinnamon and Nutmeg Cranberry Relish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cinnamon stick (Ceylon preferred); 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Zest of 1 orange (preferably organic); 1 cup water

Published: December 1, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This irresistible cranberry relish is quick to prepare and requires minimal effort
It bursts with festive flavors that make every bite memorable
The vibrant colors enhance your holiday table, turning every gathering into a feast for the eyes
Versatile enough to pair with meats or cheese platters, it’s a must-have for any event

Every time I make this cranberry relish, my friends and family can’t help but smile as they dig in—it’s truly a crowd-pleaser!

Essential Ingredients

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

Fresh Cranberries: Look for firm, bright berries; they’ll be bursting with flavor once cooked down.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetener balances the tartness of cranberries perfectly; adjust based on your taste preference.
Cinnamon Stick: A whole stick infuses the relish with rich warmth; I love using Ceylon cinnamon for its delicate flavor. Pumpkin Snickerdoodles with Cinnamon.
Ground Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds depth; always use freshly grated nutmeg if possible.
Orange Zest: For brightness and zing; choose organic oranges since you’ll be using the peel.
Water: Essential for cooking down the cranberries until they burst and meld into a beautiful sauce.

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

Let’s Make it together

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on your kitchen counter. This ensures you have everything at your fingertips as you cook.

Combine Ingredients in Saucepan: In a medium-sized saucepan, mix fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, water, cinnamon stick, ground nutmeg, and orange zest. Stir everything together gently.

Cook Until Berries Burst: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring it to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until most cranberries pop open and release their juices.

Stir Occasionally and Smell the Magic: As it simmers, stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Take a moment to inhale deeply—the aroma will fill your kitchen with holiday cheer.

Remove from Heat and Cool Down: Once done cooking, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before discarding the cinnamon stick. Your relish will thicken as it cools.

Serve and Enjoy!: Transfer your cranberry relish into a serving bowl. Feel free to chill in the fridge if you prefer it cold—either way, it’s sure to impress!

Now that you’ve mastered this irresistible cinnamon and nutmeg cranberry relish recipe, get ready to wow your guests during any meal! Enjoy its versatility as an accompaniment not only at Thanksgiving but also throughout the winter season—your taste buds will thank you! For more inspiration, check out this baked cranberry turkey sliders recipe.

You Must Know

This irresistible cinnamon and nutmeg cranberry relish recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors
The vibrant colors will make your holiday table pop, and the aroma of spices will have everyone asking for more
Perfect for turkey, ham, or simply on toast!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by simmering cranberries with sugar and spices simultaneously. This method ensures even flavor distribution and prevents burning. Stir occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency.

Add Your Touch

Try adding orange zest or chopped apples for a fresh twist. You can also experiment with different nuts for added crunch and flavor. Your creativity knows no bounds!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover relish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. For best results, serve it cold directly from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature before enjoying.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making this irresistible cinnamon and nutmeg cranberry relish, remember to use fresh cranberries for the best flavor
Avoid overcooking to keep a vibrant color
Always taste and adjust sweetness based on your preference for the perfect balance

Creating this cranberry relish reminds me of my first Thanksgiving dinner as host; my family loved it so much they nearly polished off the entire bowl!

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well; just thaw them before cooking to ensure even results.

How long does this cranberry relish stay fresh?

Stored properly in the fridge, it lasts up to two weeks without losing flavor.

What can I serve with cranberry relish?

This relish pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even cream cheese on crackers as an appetizer.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card