If you are hunting for a comforting and vibrant side that brings a burst of flavor and color to your table, this Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the sweet-tart brightness of fresh apples and dried cranberries with classic herbs and hearty bread, creating a balance of textures from soft and tender to crispy and golden. This dish is not only a celebration of seasonal ingredients but also a soulful addition that will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your loved ones with joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each one bringing its unique touch to the dish. From the buttery sautéed veggies to the juicy apples and tangy cranberries, every component plays a wonderful role in building that classic yet fresh stuffing flavor and texture.
- Day-old bread cubes (about 16 ounces): Slightly stale bread soaks up the broth perfectly without turning mushy.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): For rich, savory depth and to gently soften the veggies during sautéing.
- Large yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and complexity when cooked down.
- Celery stalks (2, diced): Brings a subtle crunch and fresh herbal flavor.
- Red apples (2, cored and diced): The star of the show with their juicy sweetness and crisp texture.
- Dried cranberries (1 cup): Offer a burst of tartness that perfectly contrasts the savory elements.
- Dried sage (1 teaspoon): The quintessential stuffing herb lending earthy warmth.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of floral, slightly minty nuance.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of mild heat and depth.
- Fresh parsley (¼ cup, chopped): Brightens and freshens the entire dish.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (2 cups): Moistens the bread and infuses the stuffing with savory richness.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures your stuffing will bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup easier and the final texture just right.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Celery
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking them gently until they soften and release their natural sweetness—about five minutes. This aromatic base creates a wonderful flavor foundation for the dish.
Step 3: Add Apples and Cranberries
Stir the chopped apples and dried cranberries into the skillet. Let them cook together for about two minutes, allowing the apples to become just tender and the cranberries to plump up slightly. This step infuses the dish with fruity vibrancy.
Step 4: Season With Herbs and Spices
Sprinkle in the dried sage, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly so the herbs and spices evenly coat the mixture, layering in that classic savory-woodsy flavor that will keep your guests asking for seconds.
Step 5: Combine Bread and Parsley
In a large mixing bowl, toss the bread cubes with chopped fresh parsley. Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbal freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich and sweet elements.
Step 6: Add the Broth and Mix Gently
Pour the apple-cranberry-veggie mixture over the bread cubes. Slowly add the chicken or vegetable broth, tossing gently to moisten all the bread evenly. The key is to avoid soaking the bread too much—you want it moist but still holding its shape. If needed, add a little more broth for the perfect consistency.
Step 7: Bake Covered
Transfer this fragrant mixture to your prepared baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture inside and bake for 30 minutes. This covered baking steams the stuffing, melding all those delicious flavors together.
Step 8: Bake Uncovered to Crisp the Top
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the top to become golden brown and delightfully crispy. This contrast between the crunchy crust and soft interior is one of the many reasons this Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe is such a winner at any meal.
Step 9: Let Cool Slightly and Garnish
Once out of the oven, give the stuffing a few minutes to settle before serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a few sprigs of thyme or sage for a beautiful finishing touch and an extra pop of fragrance.
How to Serve Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or sage not only add vibrant color but also elevate the aroma and flavor of your stuffing right at the table. A sprinkle of chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and nutty richness if you want an extra layer of texture.
Side Dishes
This stuffing pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or chicken, making it a classic holiday side. It also shines alongside glazed carrots, sautéed green beans, or even a crisp autumn salad. The sweet and savory components harmonize beautifully with many traditional and modern holiday dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning twist, try serving your Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe inside hollowed-out apples or mini pumpkin shells. Alternatively, turn it into individual stuffed bell peppers or mushroom caps for a charming appetizer or side. Presentation like this turns a beloved classic into a conversation starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover stuffing in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days, making it easy to enjoy the comforting flavors even days after your initial meal.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover stuffing by packing it into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It stays fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat stuffing on a baking sheet covered loosely with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps preserve the crispy edges and moist interior. You can also microwave for convenience, but be aware the texture may soften.
FAQs
Can I make this Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing any of the delicious savory flavor.
What type of bread works best for stuffing?
Day-old, sturdy bread like French, sourdough, or a hearty white loaf works best because it soaks up the broth without turning mushy, offering the right balance of texture.
Can I prepare this stuffing ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, prepare the mixture and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a little extra broth before baking, and be sure to bake it fully as directed.
Is it okay to use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries can be used but they are more tart and contain more moisture. If substituting, you might want to add a bit of sugar to balance the tartness and monitor the moisture level in the stuffing.
How can I make the top of the stuffing extra crispy?
Baking uncovered for the last 15 minutes is key. You can also broil for 2-3 minutes carefully to achieve a crispier top, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe is a delightful way to bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of festive cheer to any meal. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for special occasions. I truly encourage you to try it soon and watch it become a much-loved staple on your table year-round. Happy cooking and happy eating!
Print
Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing is a deliciously festive side dish perfect for holiday meals or any comforting dinner. Featuring a delightful combination of apples, dried cranberries, and aromatic herbs, it’s packed with flavor and texture. The bread cubes soak up a savory broth enhanced with sage and thyme, then bake to golden perfection with a crisp top. This recipe serves 8 and is a wonderful twist on classic stuffing.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf of day old bread, cut into cubes (about 16 ounces)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 red apples, cored and diced
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the stuffing from sticking.
- Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, sautéing until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add apples and cranberries: Stir in diced apples and dried cranberries, cooking for another 2 minutes until apples soften slightly to release sweetness.
- Season mixture: Add dried sage, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors evenly throughout the vegetable and fruit mixture.
- Combine bread and herbs: Place the bread cubes and chopped fresh parsley into a large mixing bowl, ready to combine with the sautéed mixture.
- Moisten stuffing: Pour the warm apple-cranberry vegetable mixture over the bread cubes. Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth, gently tossing to evenly moisten all bread without making it soggy. Add more broth if needed.
- Transfer and cover: Spread the stuffing mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture during baking.
- Bake covered: Bake the stuffing in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the broth.
- Uncover and finish baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This step crisps the top and creates a golden-brown crust.
- Serve and garnish: Allow the stuffing to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or fresh thyme or sage sprigs for added color and aroma. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best texture; fresh bread may become too mushy.
- You can substitute vegetable broth to make this stuffing vegetarian.
- Adjust salt and herbs according to your taste preference.
- For a nuttier texture, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans.
- This stuffing can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Cover with foil during baking to keep stuffing moist, then uncover for a crisp top.
