Looking for a way to elevate your cranberry sauce game this holiday season? This Crockpot Cranberry Sauce with Apple, Orange, and Crystallized Ginger is a simple yet flavor-packed recipe perfect for any festive occasion. The blend of sweet apples, tart cranberries, and the warmth of ginger and citrus make it a memorable addition to your meal.
Table of Contents
The Best Crockpot Cranberry Sauce with Apple, Orange & Ginger
Notes on Ingredients:
This recipe balances tart cranberries with the natural sweetness of apples and a touch of brown sugar. Fresh orange zest and juice give it a zesty brightness, while crystallized ginger brings a spicy-sweet kick. Adjust the brown sugar to taste for the perfect level of sweetness.
How to Make Crockpot Cranberry Sauce with Apple, Orange & Ginger:
- Prep the Ingredients:
Start by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples. Combine them with the cranberries, brown sugar, and orange zest in a bowl. - Cook:
Pour orange juice into the crockpot, then add the apple and cranberry mixture. Set the crockpot to low and cook for 8 hours, stirring occasionally. As the fruit softens, break it up gently with a wooden spoon. - Finish:
After 8 hours, stir in the crystallized ginger. Taste the sauce, and if it’s too tart, add more brown sugar to your preference. The result will be a beautifully chunky, flavorful sauce.
How to Serve Crockpot Cranberry Sauce with Apple, Orange & Ginger:
This cranberry sauce can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or any festive main course. You can also use it as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream.
How to Store Crockpot Cranberry Sauce with Apple, Orange & Ginger:
Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw in the refrigerator and warm gently before serving.
FAQs About Crockpot Cranberry Sauce
Can I use different apples?
Yes! Try using Granny Smith for a more tart flavor or Honeycrisp for added sweetness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors develop even more as the sauce sits, making it ideal for preparing a day or two in advance.
Can I use ground ginger instead of crystallized ginger?
Yes, but use it sparingly—about 1/4 teaspoon for a subtle ginger flavor.
The Best Crockpot Cranberry Sauce with Apple, Orange & Ginger
Ingredients
- 4 medium Gala apples peeled, cored, quartered & sliced
- 1 12 oz package fresh cranberries
- 5 tablespoon brown sugar or more to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup chopped crystallized ginger
Instructions
- Place all of the apple pieces and cranberries in a large bowl and stir in brown sugar and orange zest.
- Pour orange juice into the bottom of a large crockpot and add the apple mixture.
- Cover, turn the crockpot setting to low, and cook for about 8 hours, stirring occasionally and breaking up the apple slices and cranberries with a wooden spoon as they soften.
- Stir in crystallized ginger. Taste and add an additional tablespoon or two of brown sugar if too tart.
- Serve warm or room temperature.