Irresistible Cranberry Relish with Toasted Pecans Recipe

Name: Irresistible Cranberry Relish with Toasted Pecans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup granulated sugar; Zest of 1 orange; 1 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped; 1 cinnamon stick; 1/2 cup water

Published: December 26, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This irresistible cranberry relish is quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time
Its sweet-tart flavor profile pairs beautifully with savory dishes
The vibrant color makes it an eye-catching addition to any table setting
Versatile enough to enjoy beyond the holidays; it’s great on sandwiches or as a yogurt topping!

There was that one Thanksgiving when my Aunt Linda took a bite of my cranberry relish and exclaimed it was “better than my turkey.” I nearly fell off my chair! Who knew a humble side could steal the show?

Essential Ingredients

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

Fresh Cranberries: Look for bright red berries; avoid any that are soft or shriveled for the best flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar works wonders to balance the tartness of the cranberries; adjust according to your sweetness preference.
Orange Zest: Freshly grated orange zest adds a zesty aroma and brightens up this relish beautifully.
Toasted Pecans: Toasting them enhances their nutty flavor; chop them roughly for added texture.
Cinnamon Stick: A single stick infuses warmth into the relish without overpowering other flavors.
Water: Just enough to cook down your cranberries until they burst into luscious goodness.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Those Cranberries: Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries under cold water. Remove any stems or damaged berries carefully. They should shine like little jewels when you’re done.

Add Some Sweetness: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine your cleaned cranberries with sugar and water. Stir gently until everything melds together and begins to bubble joyfully.

Citrus Zest Magic: Once boiling, add in the freshly grated orange zest along with a cinnamon stick. The aroma will have you dreaming of cozy winter evenings—trust me!

Let it Simmer: Reduce heat and let your mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes until most cranberries have burst open. Stir occasionally while visualizing how delicious this will be on your Thanksgiving plate.

Toast Those Pecans!: While your relish simmers, toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until golden brown. Watch them closely so they don’t burn—nobody likes bitter nuts!

Combine and Chill: Remove your saucepan from heat once the relish has thickened slightly. Stir in those lovely toasted pecans and let it cool before transferring to a serving bowl or container for chilling in the fridge.

Now just imagine how good this will look when served! That glossy finish combined with crunchy pecans creates an irresistible dish that no one can resist!

Make sure to share this glorious recipe during the holidays because trust me—you’ll want everyone to experience this explosion of flavors! Enjoy every spoonful as you savor those holiday memories with friends and family!

You Must Know

This irresistible cranberry relish with toasted pecans recipe elevates any holiday table
The sweet-tart flavor and crunchy texture create a delightful balance, making it a showstopper that everyone will rave about
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for busy hosts!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips and tricks recipe.

Start by toasting the pecans first to bring out their rich flavor, then combine them with the cranberry mixture. This order ensures even cooking and enhances all flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding spices like cinnamon or swapping pecans for walnuts. A splash of orange juice can also brighten the relish.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cranberry relish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. No need to reheat; it tastes great cold!

Chef's Helpful Tips

To make your cranberry relish extra special, use fresh cranberries for the best flavor
Avoid overcooking them to keep their vibrant color and texture intact
Mixing in a pinch of salt can enhance sweetness beautifully

The first time I made this irresistible cranberry relish, my family went wild over its unique flavor. My aunt even asked for seconds, which is saying something because she usually skips sides!

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well; just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.

How long does cranberry relish last in the fridge?

Homemade cranberry relish lasts up to one week when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add other fruits to my cranberry relish?

Absolutely! Try adding diced apples or pears for added sweetness and texture.

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📖 Recipe Card