Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe is a bold, tangy blend I’ve crafted from years of kitchen experience. A Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe typically combines the tartness of cranberries with the smoky, sweet, and savoury flavours of traditional BBQ sauce.
I was inspired to make it after watching a cooking show where cranberries were used in a savoury sauce. That moment brought back memories of my early days experimenting with flavours.
Today, I’m showing up to share this recipe step-by-step, just like I’ve done countless times before in my own kitchen. Let’s get into it.
Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe
This Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe brings a unique balance of sweet, tart, and smoky flavours that stand out from traditional BBQ sauces.
The real speciality lies in the fresh cranberries, which give it a bold, fruity kick and deep colour. It’s slow-simmered with ginger, garlic, and onion for depth, while apple cider vinegar adds a touch of sharpness.
This Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe holds its own on grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce, making it a standout in any meal.
How To Prepare Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Sauce / Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: About 4 cups
Kitchen Utensils
- Medium to large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Blender or immersion blender
- Jar or airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh cranberries (rinsed)
- 1 ½ cups water
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
- ¼ cup brown sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder (for a smoky flavour)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Start With The Aromatics:
Grab a medium saucepan and place it over medium heat. If you like, drizzle in a bit of oil. Toss in your chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything softens and smells amazing.
2. Add The Rest:
Now stir in the cranberries, water, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), brown sugar or honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika or chili powder, plus a bit of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well.
3. Let It Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then turn the heat down low. Let it bubble away for 20 to 25 minutes. Give it a stir now and then. The cranberries should pop and break down, and the sauce will start to thicken.
4. Blend If You Want:
If you prefer a smooth sauce, use a stick blender right in the pot, or transfer everything to a regular blender (just be careful with the hot liquid). Or skip this step if you like a chunkier texture.
5. Cool It Down & Store:
Once the sauce is done, let it cool completely. Spoon it into a jar or any airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or stash it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 612 |
| Total Fat | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 1,223 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 158 g |
| Fiber | 8.5 g |
| Sugars | 122.5 g |
| Protein | 1.8 g |
Perfect Tips
➢ Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and color, as frozen ones can sometimes add extra water content.
➢ Cook the sauce low and slow to let all the ingredients blend deeply and develop a rich, bold taste.
➢ Adjust sweetness and spice as it cooks, adding more honey, sugar, or chili powder based on your preference.
➢ Blend the sauce until smooth if you prefer a silky texture, or leave it slightly chunky for a rustic feel.
➢ Cool completely before storing in jars to keep it fresh longer.
Serving Suggestions Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe
1. Brush over grilled chicken or pork ribs for a fruity, tangy glaze.
2. Use as a dipping sauce for crispy chicken tenders or nuggets.
3. Spread on burgers or sandwiches to add a burst of flavor.
4. Drizzle over roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts.
5. Mix into pulled pork or shredded turkey for an extra layer of taste.
Why You’ll Love Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe?
This Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe stands out for its bold and unforgettable flavour. Made using fresh cranberries, it creates a deep, tangy richness that enhances any dish.
The balance of sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy notes brings life to grilled meats or even simple roasted veggies.
It’s cooked slowly, allowing each ingredient to blend beautifully. Once tasted, it becomes a go-to favourite.
The homemade touch makes every bite more satisfying and turns ordinary meals into something truly enjoyable.
How To Make Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe Tastier?
To make Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe tastier, start by using fresh, ripe cranberries for the brightest flavour. Add a splash of maple syrup or molasses to deepen the sweetness and create a richer profile.
Incorporate a touch of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add complexity. Experiment with a pinch of cayenne or smoked chili powder to bring subtle heat and smokiness.
Simmer the sauce slowly to let the flavours meld fully, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness and balance.
How To Store The Finished Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Store the finished Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe in a clean, airtight container or jar to keep it fresh. Allow the Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation inside the container.
Refrigerate the Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe for up to two weeks, making sure to stir it before each use. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Thaw frozen sauce in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead Of Fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries work fine but may add extra water, so cook the sauce a bit longer to thicken.
Is This Sauce Spicy?
It has a mild smoky heat, but you can adjust the chili powder or smoked paprika to suit your taste.
Can I Make This Sauce Vegan?
Yes, simply replace Worcestershire sauce with a vegan alternative or soy sauce.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely, it tastes even better after sitting for a day as the flavours meld.
What Dishes Pair Well With This Sauce?
Great on grilled meats, roasted veggies, sandwiches, or as a dipping sauce for appetisers.
Conclusion
I truly enjoyed the delicious success of making this easy Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe. It came together beautifully and added so much flavor to my meals.
I hope you feel inspired to try it yourself it’s simple to make and full of bold, homemade taste. Once you make it, I know you’ll be surprised by how good it turns out.
Give it a try soon and let me know just how delicious it was for you too.
If You Love BBQ Sauce Recipe Try These Out!
Best BBQ Sauce Recipe For Pulled Pork
Franklin BBQ Sauce || Slightly Sweet
The Ultimate Low Sugar BBQ Sauce
Easy Homemade Blackberry BBQ Sauce Recipe
Smoky Mountain BBQ Sauce | Slightly Tangy
Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium to large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Blender or immersion blender
- Jar or airtight container (for storage)
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh cranberries rinsed
- 1 ½ cups water
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard optional
- ¼ cup brown sugar or honey adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky flavour
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger minced
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Start With The Aromatics:
- Grab a medium saucepan and place it over medium heat. If you like, drizzle in a bit of oil. Toss in your chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything softens and smells amazing.
Add The Rest:
- Now stir in the cranberries, water, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), brown sugar or honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika or chili powder, plus a bit of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well.
Let It Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then turn the heat down low. Let it bubble away for 20 to 25 minutes. Give it a stir now and then. The cranberries should pop and break down, and the sauce will start to thicken.
Blend If You Want:
- If you prefer a smooth sauce, use a stick blender right in the pot, or transfer everything to a regular blender (just be careful with the hot liquid). Or skip this step if you like a chunkier texture.
Cool It Down & Store:
- Once the sauce is done, let it cool completely. Spoon it into a jar or any airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or stash it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 612 | Total Fat: 0.5 g | Sodium: 1,223 mg | Carbohydrates: 158 g | Fiber: 8.5 g | Sugars: 122.5 g | Protein: 1.8 g“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”