If you’ve been hunting for a bright, tart, and irresistibly fresh condiment to elevate your meals, the Lemon Kissed Cranberries Recipe is here to delight your taste buds. This vibrant dish marries the natural tang of cranberries with the zesty sparkle of lemon and the subtle sweetness of Rhubarb Strawberry Fruit Spread, making each bite a festival of flavor. It’s perfect for bringing a lively burst of color and a balance of tart and sweet to your holiday table or as a sparkling addition to everyday dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating your Lemon Kissed Cranberries Recipe masterpiece. Each component has a special role—from the juicy cranberries that provide a tart punch to the lemon zest and juice that add fresh zing, and the fruit spread that brings a mellow sweetness and silky texture.
- 1 cup water: This is the gentle base that helps the cranberries cook evenly and develop their tender pop.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Just enough to balance the tartness of the cranberries without overpowering their natural flavor.
- 1 (12 ounce) bag fresh or frozen whole cranberries: The star ingredient offering that vibrant color and tangy bite that defines the dish.
- 1 cup Rhubarb Strawberry Fruit Spread: Adds a luscious sweetness and nuanced fruitiness that perfectly complements the lemon and cranberry.
- 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice: Brings a lively brightness that lifts the entire recipe with its citrus punch.
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest: Provides aromatic oils that intensify the lemon flavor, giving extra depth and sparkle.
How to Make Lemon Kissed Cranberries Recipe
Step 1: Cook Cranberries
Start by combining the water and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved, then toss in your fresh or frozen cranberries. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil so the berries start their magical transformation.
Step 2: Simmer to Perfection
Once boiling, reduce the heat to let everything simmer gently for about ten minutes. During this time, the cranberries soften and begin to burst, releasing their rich juices and thickening the sauce. You’ll notice the colors deepen into a glossy ruby red—a sign that you’re on the right track.
Step 3: Add Flavors
Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the Rhubarb Strawberry Fruit Spread. The fruity sweetness will melt into the tart cranberries beautifully. Next, blend in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, which awaken the sauce with that signature citrus zing only the Lemon Kissed Cranberries Recipe can deliver.
Step 4: Cool Before Serving
Patience pays off here—allow the mixture to cool completely. This step lets the flavors meld together so the cranberries become even more deliciously vibrant and balanced. Once cooled, your bright, fresh, and tangy masterpiece will be ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Lemon Kissed Cranberries Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or a few extra lemon zest strands on top of your Lemon Kissed Cranberries Recipe adds a pop of color and an inviting aroma. You can also scatter a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for an extra crunchy contrast that makes every spoonful a textural delight.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines alongside roasted turkey, pork, or even grilled chicken, where its bright flavors cut through rich, savory meats. It also pairs wonderfully with creamy cheeses or as a topping on warm English muffins and toast for a zesty breakfast treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Serve the Lemon Kissed Cranberries Recipe in small glass jars for an elegant appetizer spread, swirl some into yogurt or oatmeal, or dollop on pancakes or waffles for a refreshing fruity twist. Its versatile flavor and stunning color make it a showstopper anywhere.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and honestly, who doesn’t want extra?), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, making it just as delicious the next time you enjoy it. It should keep well for up to one week.
Freezing
The Lemon Kissed Cranberries Recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer the cooled mixture to a freezer-safe container, leaving a little headspace for expansion. When sealed properly, it can last up to three months, ready to brighten your meals anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the frozen cranberries in the fridge overnight and warm gently on low heat in a saucepan. Stir occasionally to preserve the texture and prevent sticking. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave works in a pinch, just be sure to cover it to keep moisture locked in.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just add them directly to the saucepan while cooking—they’ll thaw and cook down perfectly during the simmering step.
Is Rhubarb Strawberry Fruit Spread essential?
While it adds a unique fruity layer that complements the lemon and cranberries beautifully, you can substitute with a high-quality strawberry jam or a rhubarb jam if you prefer. Just keep the sweet-tart balance in mind.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, feel free to tweak the sugar amount based on your taste preference. If you like it tarter, reduce the sugar a bit; for a sweeter sauce, add a little more gradually as you cook.
How long will the Lemon Kissed Cranberries last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this recipe will stay fresh for about one week. The flavors often improve with a day or two of chilling, making it a great make-ahead option.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! All the ingredients used are plant-based. Just be sure your fruit spread is vegan-friendly—many are, but it’s worth a quick check on the label.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Lemon Kissed Cranberries Recipe. It’s bright, fresh, and full of personality—a condiment that turns simple meals into memorable experiences. Once you make it, expect it to become a staple in your kitchen for holidays, gatherings, or whenever you want a punch of lively flavor. So grab those cranberries and lemon, and start cooking your new favorite treat today!
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Lemon Kissed Cranberries Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Sauce/Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Lemon Kissed Cranberries is a tangy and sweet cranberry sauce featuring fresh cranberries simmered in a simple syrup, enhanced with fruity rhubarb strawberry spread, and brightened with fresh lemon juice and zest. Perfect as a vibrant side for holiday meals or as a flavorful condiment, this sauce combines tart and sweet flavors with a fresh citrus twist.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 (12 ounce) bag fresh or frozen whole cranberries
Flavor Enhancers
- 1 cup Rhubarb Strawberry Fruit Spread
- 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
Instructions
- Cook Cranberries: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the water and granulated sugar. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Boil Cranberries: Add the fresh or frozen cranberries to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring the cranberries begin to pop and release their juices.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the cranberries simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the berries to soften and the sauce to thicken.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the rhubarb strawberry fruit spread, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest to infuse the sauce with fruity sweetness and bright citrus notes.
- Cool: Transfer the sauce to a serving dish or container and allow it to cool completely to room temperature before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries for the best texture and flavor, but frozen cranberries work well too.
- The Rhubarb Strawberry Fruit Spread adds a unique fruity flavor and natural sweetness, but you can substitute with any berry jam or preserve if unavailable.
- Adjust the sugar quantity based on your sweetness preference and the tartness of your fruit spread.
- This cranberry sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated to enhance flavor.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side with turkey, chicken, or pork dishes.
