Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish: A Holiday Must-Try Delight

Name: Sweet Cranberry and Fig Relish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup dried figs, chopped; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup apple cider vinegar; 1 cinnamon stick; Zest of 1 orange; A pinch of salt

Published: December 26, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This sweet cranberry and fig relish is incredibly easy to prepare, making holiday cooking stress-free
The blend of flavors creates a delightful taste explosion that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes
Its bright colors make it visually stunning on any table setting
Serve it warm or chilled for versatility in your festive meals

Every Thanksgiving, my friends and family wait for that moment when I take out my secret weapon—the sweet cranberry and fig relish. The oohs and ahhs as I unveil it are worth all the effort.

Essential Ingredients

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

Fresh Cranberries: Opt for firm cranberries; they should bounce back when you press them for the best flavor.
Dried Figs: Choose plump figs; they add natural sweetness and a chewy texture that enhances the relish.
Granulated Sugar: This helps to balance the tartness of cranberries; adjust according to your sweetness preference.
Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash adds brightness and tanginess that offsets the sweetness beautifully.
Cinnamon Stick: A whole cinnamon stick infuses warmth into the mix—perfect for holiday vibes!
Zest of Orange: Fresh orange zest brightens up the flavors, giving your relish an aromatic lift.
Salt: Just a pinch will enhance all the other flavors, making them pop!

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

Let’s Make It Together

**Gathering Your Ingredients**: Start by assembling all your ingredients in one place—it makes things more organized and less chaotic in the kitchen.

**Cooking Cranberries**: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and cinnamon stick. Cook until cranberries start popping, about 5-7 minutes.

**Adding Figs**: Stir in chopped dried figs once the cranberries have softened. Let this mixture simmer for another 10 minutes until thickened slightly—the aroma will be heavenly!

**Incorporating Orange Zest**: Remove from heat and stir in orange zest for an extra zing. Allow it to cool slightly before transferring to a serving bowl.

**Serving Suggestions**: You can serve this relish warm or chilled—either way, it’s delicious! Pair it with turkey or cheese boards for maximum flavor experience.

Enjoy your sweet cranberry and fig relish as a delightful addition to your holiday spread! The bursts of flavor will surely elevate any meal—now go forth and impress your guests!

You Must Know

Sweet cranberry and fig relish is a delightful addition to your holiday table
Its vibrant colors and tangy sweetness perfectly complement roasted meats, cheeses, and even desserts
This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s about creating memories around the dining table with family and friends

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by simmering the cranberries until they burst, then add figs and spices for depth. This sequence ensures optimal flavor extraction and perfect texture.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest for added freshness. You can also experiment with nuts for crunch or different spices for warmth.

Storing & Reheating

Store your relish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. For reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop while stirring occasionally.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Using fresh cranberries will give you a vibrant color and tartness that frozen cannot match
Always taste as you go; adding sugar gradually helps balance flavors perfectly
Letting your relish sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing its taste

Sharing this dish at my last family gathering brought smiles all around, especially when my aunt declared it her new favorite holiday treat!

FAQ

Can I use dried figs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but soak them in warm water to soften before adding them to the mixture.

How long does sweet cranberry and fig relish last?

Stored properly, it can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

What dishes pair well with this relish?

It complements roasted meats, cheese platters, or can even be enjoyed on toast!

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

📖 Recipe Card