During the holidays, cranberries are a staple, but what do you do when you run out or they’re just too expensive? I learned this the hard way one year when I was making my famous cranberry sauce and realized I was out of cranberries.
I had to get creative, so I started looking for substitutes. Luckily I found some useful alternatives that worked great in my sauce and I want to share them with you.
Here are eight substitutes for cranberries that work great in sauces, pies, and other holiday dishes.
Substitutes For Cranberries:
- Apricot
- Apple
- Cherries
- Raspberries
- Currants
- Pomegranate
- Dried Barberries
- Frozen Cranberry
Apricot
While apricots and cranberries may differ in color and taste, they can be used interchangeably in many recipes. Apricots have a soft, sweet flesh that makes them perfect for use in dessert fillings, while cranberries are a bit tangy.
However, when it comes to baking, 1:1 substitution is possible. Simply use the same amount of apricot as you would cranberry. Because apricots are sweeter than cranberries, you may need to add just a little bit of sugar to the recipe to balance out the sweetness. But overall, apricots make a great substitute for cranberries in any recipe.
Apple
Apples can be a great substitution for cranberries. You can use them in any dish or recipe that calls for cranberries such as pies, cobblers, sauce, and even stew. They are also easily found in every store, all year round.
One of the best things about apples is that they are lower in sugar and calories than cranberries. To substitute cranberries with apple, use one medium apple for every 1 cup of cranberries called for in the recipe.
Cherries
Cherries are a delicious and sweet fruit that can be used as a substitute for cranberries in many recipes. While the two fruits are similar in color, cherries are generally softer and sweeter than cranberries.
You have to option to use fresh, canned, or frozen cherries as a substitute because either way they make an excellent topping for jams and jellies.
When substituting cherries for cranberries, use a 1:1 ratio. So, if the recipe calls for 1 cup of cranberries, use 1 cup of cherries instead. Not only are they a great addition to any dish, but they also help add a pop of color.
Raspberries
Raspberries are a delicious summer fruit that can be used in many different recipes. They can be eaten raw, added to a fruit salad, or used in a variety of cooked dishes. They can also be stewed, baked into pies or jams, or made into a delicious dessert wine. The possibilities are endless!
Although they are identical to cranberries, raspberries differ a little in taste and texture, as they are slightly sweeter than cranberries and have a more delicate flavor.
When substituting raspberries for cranberries in a recipe, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar to compensate for the difference in sweetness. However, with a little trial and error, you should be able to create a dish that is just as delicious as the original.
Currants
Currants are a healthy summer to autumn fruit that has a distinct taste. They can be substituted for cranberries in any recipe in a ratio of 1:1, even in dried form in jams, fillings, and candies.
They are a great way to add flavor and nutrition to any dish since they are a good source of fiber and vitamins C and K. They are also versatile as they can be used in many different ways to add flavor and nutrition to your dishes.
Pomegranate
If you’re looking for a fruit that will add a similar level of sweetness and tartness to your dish without being overwhelming, pomegranate is a great substitute. The seeds of the pomegranate are very similar in size and shape to cranberries, so they can be used in the same way.
Pomegranates also have a similar red color, which makes them ideal for dishes that are traditionally served with cranberry sauce. When substituting them for cranberry, it’s important to taste the dish before serving to make sure that the flavors are well balanced. A little pomegranate goes a long way, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.
Dried Barberries
Dried barberries are a great substitute option as these tart berries have a similar flavor to cranberries, but are less acidic and have a chewy texture. They can be used in many of the same ways as cranberries, such as in pies, jams, and sauces.
When substituting dried barberries for cranberries, use half the amount called for in the recipe. This will help to ensure that the finished dish is not too sweet or tart. With a little experimentation, cooks can easily find new ways to incorporate dried barberries into their favorite recipes!
Frozen Cranberry
Cranberries are a delicious and healthy way to add sweetness and flavor to a variety of dishes, but they can be pricey. Instead of using them, try frozen cranberries. They are just as sweet and flavorful as regular cranberries, but they cost a fraction of the price.
Simply thaw the berries before using them, and then use them in any recipe that calls for regular cranberries. You’ll save money without sacrificing flavor or texture. So go ahead and give frozen cranberries a try the next time you’re looking for a cranberry substitute. You won’t be disappointed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between cranberries and raspberries?
Cranberries and raspberries are both red berries that grow in bushes. They are similar in size and shape but have different flavors. Cranberries are tart and acidic, while raspberries are sweet and smooth.
Cranberries are also lower in sugar than raspberries, while raspberries contain more vitamins and antioxidants than cranberries. Cranberry juice is often used to treat urinary tract infections, while raspberry juice is high in vitamin C and can help improve vision.
What is the best way to store cranberries?
Cranberries can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer. If you store them in the refrigerator, they will last for about two weeks. If you freeze them, they will last for about six months.
How long do cranberries last?
Cranberries will last in the fridge for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to six months.
Conclusion
Cranberries are a popular winter fruit that can be used in many different recipes. They are often used in sauces, jams, and jellies. However, cranberries can be expensive and may not be available all year long.
If you are looking for a substitute for cranberries, there are several options to choose from. Each of these substitutes has its unique flavor that can add a newfound depth to your dish!