Cranberry-orange relish with cinnamon is a refreshing twist on traditional cranberry sauce, blending the tartness of cranberries with sweet orange and a hint of warm cinnamon. This no-cook relish retains the natural brightness of fresh cranberries and oranges, creating a light, zesty side dish that’s perfect for balancing rich holiday meals. It’s quick to make, vibrant in color, and adds a festive touch to any table.

In this guide, we’ll go over how to make cranberry-orange relish with cinnamon, with tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavors, variations, and serving ideas.

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1. Ingredients for Cranberry-Orange Relish with Cinnamon

Here’s what you’ll need to create this bright, tangy, and slightly spiced relish:

• Fresh Cranberries – 12 oz (1 bag), rinsed
• Orange – 1 large, with zest and flesh (remove seeds)
• Sugar – 1/2 cup (adjust to taste)
• Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon
• Nutmeg (optional) – 1/8 teaspoon, for a subtle warmth
• Salt – a pinch, to enhance flavors

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2. Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry-Orange Relish with Cinnamon

Follow these steps to make a fresh, zesty cranberry-orange relish in just minutes:

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries and Orange

1. Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and discard any soft or damaged ones.
2. Wash the orange and cut it into quarters. Remove any seeds and keep the peel on for extra zestiness.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

1. In a food processor, combine the cranberries, orange quarters, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
2. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped but still slightly chunky. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure an even consistency.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

1. Taste the relish and add more sugar if needed, depending on your preferred sweetness.
2. For an extra touch of warmth, sprinkle in the nutmeg and pulse briefly to incorporate.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

1. Transfer the cranberry-orange relish to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of orange zest or a cinnamon stick if desired.

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3. Tips for Perfect Cranberry-Orange Relish with Cinnamon

3.1 Use Fresh, Ripe Ingredients

Fresh cranberries and a juicy, ripe orange yield the best flavor and texture. Choose firm cranberries and a sweet, flavorful orange for the perfect balance.

3.2 Adjust Sweetness to Taste

If the relish is too tart, add a bit more sugar to balance the flavors. For a natural sweetness, try adding a spoonful of honey or maple syrup.

3.3 Let the Relish Chill

Allowing the relish to chill for an hour or more helps meld the flavors, making it even more delicious and refreshing.

3.4 Leave the Orange Peel On

The orange peel adds a subtle bitterness and zestiness that enhances the relish, but you can remove it if you prefer a milder flavor.

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4. Flavor Variations

4.1 Ginger Cranberry-Orange Relish

Add 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger for a touch of spiciness that complements the cranberries and citrus.

4.2 Apple Cranberry Relish

Add a small diced apple (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) for added crunch and sweetness.

4.3 Maple Pecan Cranberry Relish

Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped pecans and a tablespoon of maple syrup for a nutty, sweet twist.

4.4 Cranberry-Orange Relish with Cloves

Add a tiny pinch of ground cloves for extra warmth and depth, especially if you enjoy warm spices.

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5. Serving Suggestions

Cranberry-orange relish is a versatile side that pairs well with holiday entrees and appetizers. Here are some ways to serve it:

• With Roasted Turkey or Chicken: The sweet-tart flavor balances the richness of poultry, making it a perfect Thanksgiving side.
• With Pork Tenderloin: Cranberry and orange complement pork beautifully, adding brightness to the dish.
• On a Cheese Board: Serve alongside soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese for a festive appetizer.
• As a Sandwich Spread: Use leftover relish as a spread on turkey or ham sandwiches for a delicious post-holiday treat.

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6. Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cranberry-orange relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious after a day or two.

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7. Making Ahead for Holiday Gatherings

Cranberry-orange relish is an excellent make-ahead side dish:

1. Make the Relish: Prepare the relish as directed and refrigerate in an airtight container.
2. Store for Up to a Week: The relish keeps well for several days, so it can be made up to a week in advance.

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FAQ

1. Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes! Thaw the cranberries before using, and proceed with the recipe as directed. Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh.

2. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Absolutely. Start with a small amount and add more to taste. You can also substitute honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.

3. Do I need to cook the cranberries?

No, this is a no-cook recipe. The cranberries are chopped raw, giving the relish a fresh, bright flavor.

4. How do I make this relish smoother?

Process the ingredients longer in the food processor, or pulse until you reach your desired consistency. Avoid over-processing to keep a bit of texture.

5. Can I add other fruits to the relish?

Yes! Try adding diced apple, pomegranate seeds, or even a small amount of pineapple for additional sweetness and texture.

6. Is this relish similar to cranberry sauce?

This relish is fresher and chunkier than traditional cranberry sauce. It has a raw, crisp texture, whereas cranberry sauce is typically cooked and smooth.

7. Can I add spices other than cinnamon?

Yes, a pinch of allspice, ginger, or cloves pairs well with cranberries and oranges for a warm, spiced flavor.

8. How do I serve this relish for Thanksgiving?

Serve in a festive bowl, garnished with fresh orange zest or a cinnamon stick for a beautiful presentation alongside your Thanksgiving dishes.

9. Can I freeze cranberry-orange relish?

Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

10. Can I use mandarin oranges instead of a regular orange?

Yes! Mandarin or clementine oranges work well and add a bit more sweetness to the relish.

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Cranberry-orange relish with cinnamon is a fresh, zesty side dish that brings a burst of flavor and color to holiday meals. With just a few simple ingredients, this relish can be prepared in minutes, making it a quick and easy addition to your festive table. Enjoy this sweet-tart, spiced treat with family and friends!