If you’re looking to elevate your holiday or everyday dinner table, this Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the tart sweetness of fresh apples and dried cranberries with aromatic herbs and crunchy bread cubes, this stuffing delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s cozy, comforting, and bright all at once, making it a standout dish that’s simple to prepare yet incredibly impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in making this Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe truly shine. From the crisp apples adding freshness to the hearty bread cubes providing a satisfying bite, every item on this list contributes a unique layer of taste, texture, or color.
- 1 loaf day-old sourdough or whole grain bread: Provides the sturdy, absorbent base that soaks up all the flavors perfectly.
- 2 large Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples: Add a crisp, tangy sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- 1 cup dried cranberries: Bring a chewy texture and tart burst that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Offers richness and helps sauté the veggies to perfection.
- 1 large onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 3 celery stalks: Provide a subtle crunch and classic savory flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic: Deliver a fragrant punch that awakens the palate.
- 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped: Brings an earthy, aromatic quality essential to traditional stuffing.
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves: Add a gentle, lemony-herbal note that brightens the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Introduces a piney, savory edge that complements the fruit beautifully.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful without being soggy.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Help bind the ingredients for a satisfying texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing flavors.
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts: Add a delightful crunch and depth when included.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Bread Cubes
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread those cubed pieces of day-old sourdough or whole grain bread evenly on a baking sheet. Toast them for about 15 minutes, remembering to stir occasionally. This dries out the bread, making it perfect for soaking up the delicious broth later, while also adding a little crunch.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
While the bread is toasting, melt your unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking everything until it’s soft and translucent—around 5 to 7 minutes. This builds a fantastic savory base for your stuffing.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs
Throw in the minced garlic and cook for just about a minute until fragrant. Then stir in the fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary, letting those herbs bloom and fill the kitchen with their wonderful aroma. After a minute, remove the skillet from heat to keep all those wonderful flavors intact.
Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, bring together your toasted bread cubes, that fragrant veggie and herb mixture, diced apples, and dried cranberries. The combination of sweet and savory ingredients is what makes this Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe so special and memorable.
Step 5: Mix the Binding Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and 1 1/2 cups of broth. This mixture ensures your stuffing will be perfectly moist but never soggy.
Step 6: Combine Everything Gently
Pour the egg and broth mixture over the bread mixture, folding gently to coat every cube. Add more broth if you feel it needs it; the bread should be just moist to the touch. Season generously with salt and pepper, and if you like some extra texture, fold in your chopped pecans or walnuts now.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer your stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, smoothing the top evenly. Increase your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for about 45 minutes. You are aiming for a beautifully golden brown and crispy top that adds a lovely contrast to the soft interior.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Once baked, let your stuffing rest for around 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and the texture to firm up just right—making every bite pure comfort.
How to Serve Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a little extra chopped sage right before serving will brighten the dish visually and add a fresh herbal note. You can also add some toasted nuts on top for an extra burst of texture and flavor. These little touches make your Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe look and taste even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, baked chicken, or even a hearty vegetarian main like a stuffed squash. For sides, think creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. The versatility of this stuffing means it fits right into any festive or everyday meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try serving the stuffing inside hollowed-out acorn squash or mini pumpkins. You can also use individual ramekins for personal portions that make every guest feel special. This Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe is not only delicious but can be dressed up to impress at any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The stuffing holds its flavor well and can be enjoyed cold or warmed up, making for easy follow-up meals.
Freezing
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For a crisp top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough or whole grain breads add great texture and flavor, you can substitute with other sturdy breads like French or multigrain. Just be sure they’re a day or two old to prevent the stuffing from becoming too mushy.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll still get delicious, savory results without any compromise on flavor.
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time before baking?
You can assemble the stuffing a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a little extra broth if it looks dry.
What are some good substitutes for fresh herbs?
If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried versions can work. Use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe, since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Can I add other fruits or nuts?
Definitely! Chopped pears, dried cherries, or apricots can add wonderful variations. Nuts like almonds or hazelnuts also make great alternatives and add their own unique crunch.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about this Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe that brings warmth and joy to any meal. Its harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and herbal flavors makes it an absolute crowd-pleaser. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try—once you do, it’s bound to become one of your treasured favorites as well.
Print
Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing combines tart apples, sweet dried cranberries, and fresh herbs with toasted sourdough bread, creating a moist and flavorful side dish perfect for holiday meals or any comforting dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf (about 1 pound) day-old sourdough or whole grain bread, cubed
- 2 large Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples, diced
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly dry. Set aside and increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate Herbs: Add fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Cook for 1 more minute to release their flavors, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix Dry and Sautéed Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables and herbs, diced apples, and dried cranberries.
- Prepare Liquid Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together beaten eggs and 1 1/2 cups of the broth.
- Combine All Components: Pour the egg and broth mixture over the bread mixture. Gently fold until all bread cubes are moistened. Add additional broth if needed to achieve moist but not soggy consistency.
- Season and Add Nuts: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste and fold in optional chopped pecans or walnuts if using.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the stuffing mixture evenly inside.
- Bake the Stuffing: Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffing rest for 10 minutes after baking to set before serving.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for the best texture; fresh bread can lead to soggy stuffing.
- Feel free to substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Adding nuts gives an extra crunch, but can be omitted to accommodate allergies.
- Herbs can be adjusted based on personal preference or availability.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
