Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe

Name: Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups bread cubes; 2 cups diced apples; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1 onion, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe. Combining sweet apples, tart cranberries, and savory herbs, this stuffing brings a perfect blend of flavors and textures that complement any festive meal. It's pumpkin-spiced goodness in each bite, making it a seasonal favorite that will impress your guests.

Created by

Sam Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T07:07:13.647Z

This Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe is a perfect side dish that brings joy to any holiday table. With its sweet and savory notes, it's a dish everyone will love!

Perfect for Holidays and Gatherings

This Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe is not just a side dish; it's an experience that elevates your holiday meals. Imagine the warm aroma of baked apples and cranberries wafting through your home, inviting everyone to the table. This stuffing pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even a vegetarian main course, making it a versatile addition to any festive spread.

The combination of sweet apples and tart cranberries ensures that each forkful bursts with flavor. Plus, the savory herbs bring a comforting depth that balances the sweetness perfectly. Your guests will be talking about this dish long after the meal is over, solidifying its place in your holiday traditions.

Easy to Customize

One of the greatest aspects of this stuffing recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on personal preferences or what you have on hand. For a crunchier texture, consider adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans. If you want more spice, a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the seasonal flavors even further.

Vegetarians can easily adapt this recipe by using vegetable broth and adding mushrooms for an earthy touch. This makes it an excellent option for all dietary preferences, ensuring that every guest at your table can enjoy the deliciousness of this stuffing.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing for the holidays can be stressful, but this stuffing recipe allows for some make-ahead convenience. You can assemble the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When it’s time to eat, simply pop it in the oven to cook. This way, you can spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

Alternatively, you can freeze the stuffing before baking. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bake it as directed. This makes your holiday meal prep even easier, giving you more time to focus on enjoying the moment.

Ingredients

4 cups bread cubes
2 cups diced apples
1 cup dried cranberries
1 onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

Mix all ingredients well for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the bread

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast until golden brown, about 10 minutes.

Sauté vegetables

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery, sauté until soft.

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, mix toasted bread, sautéed vegetables, apples, cranberries, herbs, salt, and pepper. Gradually stir in broth to moisten.

Bake the stuffing

Transfer stuffing to a greased baking dish and bake for 30 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy on top.

Let the stuffing sit for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Cranberry Stuffing pairs wonderfully with traditional holiday proteins like roasted turkey and glazed ham. It adds a delightful contrast of flavors, with its sweet and savory notes balancing the richness of the meat. For a vegetarian feast, serve it alongside a hearty stuffed squash or as part of a vibrant vegetable platter.

Don't forget about sauces! A drizzle of cranberry sauce or a savory gravy can enhance the dish even further. Consider placing a small bowl of each on the table for guests to help themselves, encouraging them to customize their plates.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If you prefer a crispy top, remove the foil for the last few minutes of baking.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked stuffing. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned. This makes it a perfect dish to prepare in advance and enjoy at your convenience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing up to a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for apples?

Pears or other fruits can be substituted for a different flavor profile.