Apple Cranberry Stuffing

Name: Apple Cranberry Stuffing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of bread, cubed; 2 apples, peeled and diced; 1 cup cranberries, fresh or dried; 1 onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon sage; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Transform your holiday feast with this delightful Apple Cranberry Stuffing recipe. Combining the sweetness of fresh apples with the tartness of cranberries, this stuffing adds a unique twist to traditional recipes. Perfect for turkey or as a comforting side dish, it's the ideal way to elevate your Thanksgiving or holiday meal and impress your guests.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T07:37:53.272Z

This Apple Cranberry Stuffing is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, incorporating sweet apples and tart cranberries for a burst of flavor.

A Unique Flavor Combination

Apple Cranberry Stuffing brings together a delightful blend of flavors that can rejuvenate your festive table. The sweetness of fresh apples complements the tartness of cranberries, creating a delicious contrast that will intrigue your palate. This stuffing is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors that accentuates the traditional turkey centerpiece during the holidays.

By incorporating fruit into your stuffing, you not only enhance the taste but also add a beautiful pop of color to your plate. The vibrant red cranberries nestled among the golden bread cubes and green herbs will make your dish as visually appealing as it is delicious. This unique flavor combination is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the best aspects of this Apple Cranberry Stuffing is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare it the day before your holiday feast. Simply follow the recipe up until the baking step, then cover and refrigerate the mixture. On the day of your celebration, all you need to do is pop it in the oven, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities with your family and friends.

Making stuffing ahead of time not only saves you precious cooking time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The result is a stuffing that tastes even better after it has had some time to rest. With this recipe, you’ll have a delicious and effortless side dish that won't add stress to your holiday meal preparation.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

While this stuffing is a perfect pairing for turkey, its versatility allows it to shine alongside numerous dishes. Consider serving it with roasted chicken, pork, or even as a warm salad base. Its sweet and savory profile means that it complements a variety of proteins beautifully, making it a go-to side for any festive occasion.

You can also adapt this recipe to suit your taste. Add nuts for a delightful crunch, or mix in different herbs to create a custom flavor profile that fits your family’s preferences. The beauty of Apple Cranberry Stuffing is its ability to be tailored, ensuring everyone at your table enjoys this delicious dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your stuffing.

Stuffing Ingredients

1 loaf of bread, cubed
2 apples, peeled and diced
1 cup cranberries, fresh or dried
1 onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon sage
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious stuffing.

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

Mix All Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, sautéed vegetables, diced apples, cranberries, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth gradually, mixing until the bread is moistened.

Bake the Stuffing

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until golden brown.

Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Enhancing Your Ingredients

Choosing the right type of bread can significantly affect the texture of your stuffing. Opt for hearty artisan bread or rustic sourdough for a more robust flavor, or classic white bread for a traditional approach. Each type brings its own unique characteristics that can enhance the overall experience of the dish.

Fresh, locally sourced apples and cranberries can elevate the recipe to a new level. If available, use Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples for their crisp texture and balanced sweetness. These choices not only improve the taste but also support local farmers, making your meal more sustainable.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this stuffing stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, allow the stuffing to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

To achieve that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, consider reheating in the oven. Place the stuffing in a baking dish covered with foil to retain moisture, then heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking and let it brown.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Unlike typical stuffing recipes that rely solely on bread and broth, this Apple Cranberry Stuffing introduces layers of flavor that leave a lasting impression. The unique combination of fresh fruits and herbs makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to impress during the holiday season.

With its rustic charm and bursting with flavor, this stuffing not only enhances your meal but also creates lasting memories shared over the dining table. Prepare to receive compliments as your guests savor each bite of this exquisite dish, making it a beloved holiday tradition in your household.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and bake it the next day.