Cranberry relish is the kind of dish that dances on your taste buds. Imagine the tartness of fresh cranberries, mingling with zesty orange and just a hint of warmth from spices. This delicious no-sugar added cranberry relish recipe will have your mouth watering before you even take a bite. Spiced cranberry relish variation Cranberry apple compote recipe It’s a burst of flavor that brightens up any meal, especially during the holiday season when everything feels cozy and festive. Cranberry red pepper relish Citrus cranberry relish recipe.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I make this cranberry relish ahead of time?
- What can I serve with cranberry relish?
- How long does the cranberry relish last?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every Thanksgiving, my family gathers around the table like moths to a flame, eagerly awaiting this vibrant dish. The first spoonful always brings smiles and comments like, “Wow, this is so refreshing!” It’s hard not to feel nostalgic thinking about those moments. Perfect for turkey or as a tangy topping for leftover sandwiches, this cranberry relish has become a staple that we look forward to each year. For more inspiration, check out this Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This no-sugar added cranberry relish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy cooks
- Bright, tangy flavors create an unforgettable taste experience
- Its vibrant red color adds visual appeal to any holiday spread
- Versatile enough for various dishes, it pairs beautifully with savory meals and desserts alike
Each holiday season brings fond memories of laughter and good food shared with family over this delightfully tart treat.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cranberries: Choose bright red berries; they should be firm and plump for the best flavor.
- Orange Zest: The zest adds a fragrant citrus note; make sure it’s fresh for maximum aroma.
- Fresh Orange Juice: Use freshly squeezed juice instead of bottled for vibrant flavor.
- Cinnamon Stick: A whole stick infuses warmth; it’s essential for that cozy holiday vibe.
- Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a zingy kick that balances the tartness perfectly.
- Walnuts or Pecans (optional): Chopped nuts add crunch; use them if you like texture in your relish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep the Cranberries: Rinse one bag of fresh cranberries under cool water; discard any mushy ones or stems you find hiding amongst the good berries.
Add Aromatic Components: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed cranberries with freshly squeezed orange juice and orange zest. Toss in a cinnamon stick and some grated ginger for depth. For more inspiration, check out this Baked Apples with Feta and Cranberries recipe.
Cook Until Bursting: Place over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Cook while stirring occasionally until cranberries pop open and release their juices; this usually takes about 10 minutes.
Adjust Flavors as Needed: Taste your mixture after cooking; if you want more sweetness without sugar, consider adding natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Add Nuts (Optional): If you’re using nuts for texture, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans now and give it one last gentle stir before removing from heat.
Cool Before Serving: Transfer the relish to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully as it chills in the fridge!
Now you have created an amazing no-sugar added cranberry relish that’s ready to impress at your next gathering! Enjoy every vibrant spoonful of tart goodness!
You Must Know
- This delicious no-sugar added cranberry relish recipe is a game changer
- Not only is it healthier, but the tartness of the cranberries and zing of citrus create an explosion of flavors that will brighten any holiday table
- Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by rinsing the cranberries and removing any bad ones. Simmer them with orange juice and zest until they burst for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix in nuts or spices like cinnamon or ginger for extra texture and warmth. You can also experiment with different fruits for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cranberry relish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. No reheating needed; it’s great chilled!
Chef's Helpful Tips
Sharing my cranberry relish at Thanksgiving became a cherished family tradition, especially when everyone raved about how deliciously fresh it tasted compared to store-bought options.

FAQ
Can I make this cranberry relish ahead of time?
Yes, preparing this delicious no-sugar added cranberry relish a day in advance enhances its flavor.
What can I serve with cranberry relish?
Try serving it alongside turkey, chicken, or even on toast for a delightful breakfast treat.
How long does the cranberry relish last?
Properly stored, this relish can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator without losing flavor.
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📖 Recipe Card
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No-Sugar Added Cranberry Relish
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cranberry relish is a vibrant, no-sugar added dish that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with zesty orange and warm spices. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this relish will impress your guests with its refreshing flavor and beautiful presentation. Whether served alongside turkey or spread on sandwiches, this easy-to-make recipe is a must-have for festive meals.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (1 bag)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse cranberries under cool water and discard any mushy ones.
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon stick, and ginger.
- Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes until cranberries burst and release juices.
- Adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup if desired.
- Stir in nuts if using and remove from heat to cool.
- Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (125g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg





