Delicious Cranberry Sauce with Pineapple Recipe

If you're looking for a way to elevate your traditional cranberry sauce, this cranberry sauce with pineapple is the perfect choice. Combining the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of pineapple creates a delightful balance of flavors that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. This recipe is not only incredibly tasty but also simple to prepare, making it a great addition to your holiday meal or any special occasion.

A Recipe for Every Occasion

This cranberry sauce with pineapple has a special place in many holiday feasts, but it can be enjoyed year-round. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors is perfect for any festive gathering, from Thanksgiving to Christmas, or even as a refreshing side dish during summer barbecues. The versatility of this recipe is one of the many reasons why it's so popular.

For me, cranberry sauce with pineapple brings back memories of family holidays, where we would gather around the dinner table and share stories over a delicious spread of food. This particular sauce was always a hit, with its bright colors and tantalizing flavor. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, especially turkey, ham, and chicken. Whether you're making it for a large family dinner or just for yourself, this recipe will not disappoint.

Recipe Overview

Name: Cranberry Sauce with Pineapple

Description: A sweet and tangy sauce that blends the tartness of cranberries with the tropical sweetness of pineapple, perfect for holiday feasts or as a delicious side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients List

• 1 12-ounce bag of fresh cranberries
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
• 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
• Zest of one orange
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Substitutions: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. You can also substitute orange juice with apple juice for a slightly different flavor profile. If you like more texture in your sauce, use pineapple chunks instead of crushed pineapple.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing the cranberries and picking out any that are soft or damaged. Set them aside. Prepare your other ingredients, including zesting the orange and measuring out the crushed pineapple and sugar.

2. Combine the Ingredients

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, crushed pineapple (with juice), and orange juice. Stir the ingredients together until the sugar begins to dissolve.

3. Cook the Sauce

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. As the cranberries start to pop, reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will break down, and the sauce will thicken. If you prefer a chunkier texture, don't stir too much to allow some cranberries to remain whole.

4. Add Orange Zest and Cinnamon

Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the orange zest. If you're using cinnamon, add it at this stage for a warm, spicy flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.

5. Cool and Serve

Let the sauce cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will continue to thicken. You can serve the cranberry sauce with pineapple immediately or store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it. It can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for holiday meal prep.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This cranberry sauce with pineapple is perfect as a side dish for your holiday feast. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, chicken, or even as a topping for pork. For a creative twist, use it as a spread on sandwiches or mix it into a yogurt parfait for breakfast. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or even with a cheese platter for a sweet and savory combination.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover cranberry sauce with pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Canned Pineapple?

Yes! If you don't have fresh pineapple, canned crushed pineapple works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to use pineapple packed in juice, not syrup, to keep the sauce from becoming too sweet.

Can I Make This Cranberry Sauce Ahead of Time?

Definitely! This cranberry sauce with pineapple actually tastes better the longer it sits, so making it a day or two before your big meal is a great idea. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.

Can I Add Other Fruits?

Yes! You can experiment by adding other fruits to this recipe. Diced apples, pears, or even pomegranate seeds can add extra texture and flavor. Just be mindful of the overall sweetness to ensure the balance remains.

Conclusion

This cranberry sauce with pineapple is a delightful twist on a classic holiday favorite. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet pineapple creates a perfect balance that will complement any meal. Whether you're making it for a holiday gathering or just to enjoy with your family, this sauce is easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit. Give it a try, and don't forget to leave a comment below to let us know how it turned out!