Recipe Canned Cherries Canned Cranberries: 5 Delightful Ideas

Looking to elevate your cooking with minimal effort? Recipe canned cherries and canned cranberries are the secret ingredients you’ve been waiting for. These pantry staples offer a burst of flavor and versatility, whether you’re crafting sweet treats, tangy sauces, or refreshing drinks.

With their convenient shelf life and easy preparation, canned cherries and cranberries are perfect for quick, delicious recipes year-round. Let’s dive into the many creative ways you can incorporate these vibrant fruits into your meals!

From smoothies and salads to pies and savory sauces, there’s no shortage of inspiration. Try your hand at a recipe featuring canned cherries and canned cranberries to discover how these pantry staples can elevate your cooking game.

Recipe Canned Cherries Canned Cranberries

Recipe by Calven ArlithCourse: Preserves, SnacksCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

5

jars

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories per Serving

300

kcal

Total time

40

minutes

This recipe combines the sweetness of cherries and tartness of cranberries to create a delicious homemade preserve perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted

• 2 cups fresh cranberries

• 1 ½ cups sugar

• 1 cup water

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

• In a large pot, combine cherries, cranberries, sugar, and water.
• Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Once the berries begin to break down, reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes until the mixture thickens.
• Add lemon juice and vanilla extract, stirring to combine.
• Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
• Carefully pour the mixture into sterilized jars, seal, and allow to cool completely.

Notes

• Use jars with tight-fitting lids to ensure proper sealing.
  For added flavor, you can include cinnamon or cloves during cooking.
  Ensure the mixture thickens properly to avoid watery preserve.

Quick and Easy Canned Cherry Recipes

Canned Cherry Fruit Salad

Looking for a refreshing and light fruit salad? This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack or part of a larger meal. Here’s a simple recipe to prepare it:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup canned cherries (drained)
• 1 apple (diced)
• 1 cup grapes (halved)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (either fresh or canned)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Fresh mint leaves (finely chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherries, apple, grapes, and pineapple.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey and lime juice to create a smooth dressing.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Garnish with finely chopped mint leaves.
5. Serve chilled for a refreshing treat.

This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of fruit with a refreshing citrusy dressing for a light, flavorful dish.

Canned Cherry Smoothie

Craving a quick and nutritious smoothie? Canned cherries make for an excellent base. Here’s how to blend up a tasty and healthy drink:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup canned cherries (drained)
• 1 ripe banana
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup milk (or any plant-based alternative)
• 1 cup ice cubes
• A handful of spinach or kale (optional)
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add the cherries, banana, yogurt, milk, and ice cubes to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth. For added nutrients, include spinach or kale.
3. Sample the smoothie and tweak sweetness by adding honey, if needed.
4. Pour into a glass and garnish with granola or chia seeds for extra crunch.

This smoothie is ideal for a quick breakfast, post-workout recovery, or a refreshing snack.

Cherry Jam or Jelly

Making homemade cherry jam or jelly is simpler than it sounds and makes a great pantry addition. Here’s how to prepare this delightful treat:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups canned cherries (drained)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 packet pectin (follow package directions)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice, and cook over medium heat until the cherries soften.
2. Mash the cherries slightly to release their juices.
3. Mix in the pectin and prepare as directed on the package.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. transfer the mixture into sterilized jars and secure the lids tightly.

This jam is perfect for spreading on toast, topping pancakes, or using as a filling for baked goods. It also makes for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Savory Canned Cranberry Dishes

Classic Cranberry Sauce

No festive meal is complete without the signature cranberry sauce. Using canned cranberries, this recipe offers a tangy, flavorful addition to any feast:

Ingredients:

• 1 can of cranberries (whole or jellied)
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup orange juice (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and lemon zest.
2. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens.
3. For enhanced flavor, stir in orange juice and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. Allow the sauce to cool before serving with roasted turkey, ham, or as a topping for grilled cheese sandwiches.

This cranberry sauce is a simple yet essential dish, perfect for elevating any meal.

Cranberry-Glazed Chicken

For a delightful weeknight dinner, this tangy cranberry-glazed chicken offers a sweet-savory flavor fusion that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of cranberries (whole preferred)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. In a skillet, sear the chicken over medium heat until golden brown on both sides. Set the chicken aside.
3. In the same skillet, add cranberries, honey, garlic, and white wine. Stir and simmer until the mixture thickens into a rich glaze.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the cranberry glaze. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

This dish is an elegant yet easy option, perfect for both weeknight meals and small gatherings.

Cranberry Muffins

Start your day with these light, fluffy cranberry muffins, offering the ideal balance of sweet and tart. They make a delicious breakfast or snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of cranberries (drained and chopped)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon orange zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. in a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt with a whisk.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, oil, egg, and orange zest.
4. mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir lightly until combined.
5. Carefully fold in the cranberries. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin tin cups, filling them three-quarters full.
6. Cooke for 20 minutes, or until the center passes the toothpick test.

These muffins are perfect for meal prepping—bake them on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week.

Baking with Canned Cherries and Cranberries

Recipe canned cherries canned cranberries are versatile pantry staples that bring convenience and flavor to your baking endeavors. Whether you’re preparing a festive treat or a comforting dessert, these fruits can elevate your recipes with minimal effort. Let’s explore some delightful options:

Canned Cherry Pie

A classic cherry pie is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. With canned cherries, you can create the perfect filling in minutes. Here’s how to make it:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 can of pitted cherries in syrup
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 store-bought or homemade pie crust top & bottom
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Drain the canned cherries, reserving half of the syrup.
  3. In a saucepan, combine the reserved syrup, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until thickened.
  4. Stir in the cherries and vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool slightly.
  5. Roll out the pie crust and line a 9-inch pie dish. Pour in the cherry filling.
  6. place the top crust over the filling, crimp the edges, and cut small slits for steam to escape. Brush with egg wash and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
  7. lay the top crust over the pie, press the edges to seal, and make small slits for ventilation. Brush with egg wash before baking for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust turns golden.
  8. add the top crust, pinch the edges to seal, and create small vents for steam. Apply egg wash and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp.

Cranberry Orange Bread

This vibrant and zesty bread is a perfect balance of tart cranberries and refreshing orange. It’s perfect for a comforting afternoon treat or a festive holiday breakfast.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 can of whole cranberry sauce
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans are a nice addition)
• Instructions:
  1. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan thoroughly.
  2. In one bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, blend sugar, orange juice, zest, oil, and eggs until smooth.
  4. Mix in cranberry sauce and nuts, if desired.
  5. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean.

Canned Fruit Cobbler

A fruit cobbler is a comforting dessert that’s both simple to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whether you use canned cherries, cranberries, or a mix of both, this dessert is sure to impress.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 can of cherries or cranberries
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (optional, depending on fruit sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, combine the canned fruit, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Pour into the prepared dish.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cooking powder, plus salt.
  4. Add milk and melted butter, stirring gently until just mixed.
  5. Spoon the batter over the fruit mixture in dollops.
  6. Cooke for 33 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the fruit is bubbling.
  7. Serve while warm, paired with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Tips for Baking with Canned Fruits

• Always drain and rinse canned fruits if they’re packed in heavy syrup to control sweetness.
• Use spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to enhance the fruit’s natural flavors.
• Pair cranberries with orange or cherries with almond extract for a flavor boost.

With these recipes, baking with Recipe canned cherries canned cranberries becomes a delightful adventure. These treats are not only delicious but also perfect for sharing with loved ones!

Savory Dishes with Canned Cherries and Cranberries

Canned Cherry BBQ Sauce

Create a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce by blending canned cherries with vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and spices. Use it to glaze meats like ribs or chicken for a mouthwatering grilled dish. It’s a unique twist on a BBQ staple that will wow your guests.

Cranberry and Walnut Salad

This salad combines the tangy crunch of canned cranberries with toasted walnuts, mixed greens, and a balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a light, refreshing side dish that pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it perfect for healthy lunches or dinners.

Canned Cranberry Chutney

Spiced cranberry chutney made from canned cranberries, onions, and cinnamon is the ideal accompaniment to roasted turkey, pork, or even a cheese board. This richly flavored chutney adds a sophisticated touch to your meals with minimal effort.

Health Benefits of Recipe Canned Cherries Canned Cranberries

Antioxidants in Canned Cherries

Canned cherries are packed with antioxidants that help combat inflammation and promote overall health. Adding cherries to your diet can benefit your skin, joints, and immune system. Whether in smoothies or salads, these vibrant fruits are a valuable addition to your meals.

Nutritional Value of Canned Cranberries

Canned cranberries are high in vitamin C and fiber, supporting immune and digestive health. They’re a great option when fresh cranberries are out of season, providing essential nutrients year-round.

Low-Calorie Snacks with Canned Fruit

Craving something sweet without the guilt? Canned cherries and cranberries are naturally low in calories, making them a healthy option. Snack on them as they are, or sprinkle them over yogurt for a satisfying treat that keeps your calorie count in check.

Bringing It All Together

Canned cherries and cranberries are more than just convenient—they’re culinary powerhouses that can elevate both sweet and savory dishes. From quick salads and smoothies to decadent pies and savory sauces, these versatile fruits save time while adding rich flavors to your cooking. Plus, their nutritional benefits make them a healthy choice for snack lovers and foodies alike.

Discover the endless possibilities of creating with canned fruits. Whether you’re making a quick snack or hosting an elaborate dinner, give these recipes a try and experience the magic of canned cherries and cranberries in your kitchen.

Why Use Canned Cherries and Cranberries?

Canned cherries and cranberries offer unique benefits that make them perfect for all kinds of recipes, from desserts to savory mains.

Nutritional Benefits

Did you know that canned fruits like cherries and cranberries can be just as nutritious as fresh ones? Often picked and packed at peak ripeness, canned fruits lock in nutrients better than “fresh” fruits that spend weeks in transit. Cranberries, for example, are a great source of antioxidants, while cherries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Year-Round Availability and Long Shelf Life

With canned cherries and cranberries, seasonality is no longer a concern. Craving cherry pie in the dead of winter? No problem! Their long shelf life also means you can stock up, ensuring you always have a versatile ingredient on hand.

Budget-Friendly and Waste-Reducing

Fresh cherries and cranberries can be pricey and have a short shelf life, often leading to waste. Canned fruits are not only more affordable, but their extended usability means less food ends up in the trash. With a pantry stocked with recipe canned cherries canned cranberries, you’re saving money and reducing food waste, one recipe at a time.

How to Choose the Best Canned Fruits

Not all canned cherries and cranberries are created equal. Here’s what to look for when selecting the best options at the store.

Watch for Added Sugars and Preservatives

Always read the label! Opt for products with no added sugars or artificial preservatives. Unsweetened or lightly sweetened options allow for better control over the sweetness in your recipes.

Go for Trusted Brands

For quality and taste, choose reputable brands. Well-known names often invest in better sourcing and preparation processes, leading to higher-quality canned fruits.

Look for BPA-Free Packaging

Prioritize canned fruits in BPA-free packaging for safer and more sustainable food storage.

Can Your Own Fruit

For those who love DIY projects, canning your own cherries and cranberries is a fantastic option. Here’s a quick overview for beginners.

The Basics of Canning

Canning involves preserving fruits in a vacuum-sealed jar to extend their shelf life. You’ll need a few staples like jars, lids, and a canning pot.

Essential Tips for Safe Canning

• Sterilize everything: Sanitize all jars and lids to prevent bacteria growth.
• Use proven recipes: Stick to tested recipes to ensure safety and quality.
• Store properly: Keep your canned fruits in a cool, dark place for best results.

For detailed instructions, you can find beginner-friendly canning guides online to step you through the process.

Must-Try Recipes with Canned Cherries and Cranberries

Now, onto the fun part—cooking! Here are some easy-to-make, delicious recipes featuring canned cherries and cranberries.

Sweet Recipes

1. Easy Cherry Clafoutis

A French classic made simple. Whip up a batter of eggs, flour, milk, and sugar, then pour it over canned cherries in a baking dish. Bake until golden for a luscious, custardy dessert.

2. Cranberry-Orange Relish

Brighten your fall spread with this tangy side dish. Mix canned cranberries with orange zest, sugar (or a sugar substitute), and a splash of orange juice for a zesty complement to turkey or ham.

3. Cherry Upside-Down Cake

Layer canned cherries at the bottom of a cake pan, top with a yellow cake batter, and bake. Flip it upside down after baking to reveal a picture-perfect dessert.

Savory Dishes

1. Cranberry-Glazed Meatballs

Mix canned cranberries with barbecue sauce for a sweet-and-tart glaze that takes meatballs to the next level. This makes a perfect appetizer for holiday gatherings.

2. Cherry-Balsamic Chicken

Sauté chicken breasts until golden, then deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar and canned cherries. Reduce the sauce until it’s thick and glossy for a gourmet-style dinner.

3. Cranberry-Infused Grain Bowl

Looking for a healthy lunch? Toss canned cranberries with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, kale, and a lemon vinaigrette for a colorful and nutrient-packed meal.

Healthy and Budget-Friendly Options

Eating well doesn’t have to be complicated. Canned cherries and cranberries make healthy cooking affordable and easy.

Low-Sugar Recipes

• Cherry Overnight Oats: Top oats with canned cherries, almond milk, and a dollop of unsweetened yogurt. Refrigerate overnight for a grab-and-go breakfast.
• Cranberry Spinach Salad: Toss canned cranberries with baby spinach, walnuts, and a light balsamic dressing for a refreshing low-calorie salad.

Portion and Ingredient Control

Using canned fruits allows you to control portion sizes and other ingredients in your recipes, making it easier to track calories, added sugars, and other nutritional values.

Start Creating with Canned Cherries and Cranberries

Recipe canned cherries canned cranberries are incredibly versatile, nutritious, and practical ingredients for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re crafting a sweet dessert, a savory meal, or a low-calorie snack, the possibilities are endless. With this guide, you’re well on your way to creating delicious, crowd-pleasing dishes.

We’d love to see what you make! Snap a photo, tag us on social media, and share your favorite recipes in the comments. Don’t forget to bookmark this guide and share it with fellow foodies. Happy cooking!

Start creating delicious dishes with canned cherries and cranberries! These versatile fruits are perfect for adding a sweet and tangy twist to a variety of recipes. Whether you’re making a quick dessert or a savory side dish, canned cherries and cranberries offer convenience without sacrificing flavor. Explore more ideas and recipes on how to make the most of these fruits in your cooking here.