Cranberries are one of the most versatile fruits out there.
Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack or something to add flavor to your favorite dish, dried cranberries can do the trick!
Dried cranberries are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to use.
All you need is a few ingredients and some creativity, and you can whip up amazing meals in no time.
In this article, I’ll be sharing 11 easy recipes that make use of dried cranberries – from breakfast dishes to salads and desserts.
So let’s get started!
11 Easy Dried Cranberry Recipes
Dried cranberries are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes.
From appetizers to desserts, here are eleven easy dried cranberry recipes that you can whip up in no time:
1. Apple Cranberry Strudel
This Apple Cranberry Strudel is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is sure to impress any dinner guests.
Made with Granny Smith apples, dried cranberries, butter, sugar, and spices, this strudel is sure to be a hit.
Plus, the flaky phyllo pastry sheets bring the perfect crunchy texture. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for a truly decadent treat.
2. Double Oat Granola
Sometimes the simplest recipes are the best and this Double Oat Granola is no exception.
This tasty treat is packed with nutritious ingredients like rolled oats, oat bran cereal, wheat germ, pecans, applesauce, honey, vegetable oil, and cinnamon.
To add even more flavor and nutrition, you can add dried cranberries, snipped dried tart cherries, and dried blueberries. It’s a perfect way to start your day or snack on throughout the day.
3. Baby Greens with Mediterranean Vinaigrette
This delicious and nutritious salad makes a great side dish, light lunch, or even a main course. It’s easy to make and sure to please.
The vinaigrette is made with mustard seeds, coriander, cumin, carrot juice, golden raisins, red wine vinegar, cilantro, yogurt, honey, red pepper flakes, salt and black pepper, and olive oil. The croutons are made with whole wheat bread cubes and olive oil.
The salad is then made with garlic, salt, baby spinach, beet greens, chard, dried cranberries and cheddar cheese.
4. Apple, Celery and Cranberry Salad with Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette
Not too often do you see a salad recipe that contains cranberries, but this Apple, Celery, and Cranberry Salad with Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette is a great way to add a little something special to an otherwise ordinary salad.
The combination of sweet and tart cranberries, crunchy celery, and the zesty lemon vinaigrette make this a unique and tasty dish that can be enjoyed any time of year.
5. Chocolate Chunk Cranberry and Walnut Cookies
Your kids will go wild for these yummy Chocolate Chunk Cranberry and Walnut Cookies.
The combination of dried cranberries, walnuts, chocolate chunks, and spices give these cookies a unique and delicious flavor that everyone will love.
The rolled oats add a bit of texture, and the butter and brown sugar make them soft and chewy.
So treat the family to something special and bake up a batch of these amazing cookies!
6. Cherry and Chocolate Energy Bars
When you’re in need of a quick and delicious snack, try these Cherry and Chocolate Energy Bars.
Packed with puffed wheat cereal, pecan halves, pepitas, dried cherries or cranberries, sesame seeds, ground flax seed, honey, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips, these energy bars are sure to satisfy any craving.
Enjoy them as an after-school snack, a pre-workout snack, or just as a special treat.
7. Balsamic-Honey Glazed Beets and Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese
Truly elevate your salad game with this delicious Balsamic-Honey Glazed Beets and Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese!
This easy-to-make salad combines the sweetness of balsamic vinegar and honey with the tartness of dried cranberries and the creaminess of goat cheese, all atop a bed of healthy greens.
With its bright and vibrant colors, this salad is sure to dazzle your guests and delight their palates.
8. Almond, Peanut Butter and Dried Fruits Granola Bars
Ah, the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a crunchy granola bar.
With this easy-to-make recipe, you can have a delicious snack ready in no time.
This recipe combines all the flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, plus the crunchy texture of almonds, dried cranberries, apricots and prunes.
Plus, it’s a great way to get in some extra fiber and protein with the oats and flax seed. It’s the perfect treat for a snack or even a quick breakfast option!
9. Red and Green Coleslaw
Whether you use this red and green coleslaw as a side dish or as a topping for tacos, burgers, and sandwiches, you won’t be disappointed.
This simple and delicious recipe combines the tartness of the cranberries and the sweetness of the sugar with the crunch of the cabbage and onion.
The combination of all these flavors is sure to satisfy any palate.
10. Israeli Couscous, Apple and Dried Cranberry Salad with Toasted Almonds
Nobody said salads have to be boring! This Israeli Couscous, Apple and Cranberry Salad is packed full of flavor.
It is a great combination of sweet and savory, with the tartness of the cranberries, the nuttiness of the almonds and the sweetness of the apples. It’s also a great way to get your daily serving of whole grains and dried fruit.
Serve it as a side dish, light lunch or a healthy snack.
11. Low Fat Creamy Pasta Salad
Nothing says summer like a creamy pasta salad! This delicious Low Fat Creamy Pasta Salad is the perfect light and healthy dish to enjoy on a warm summer day.
Packed with crunchy vegetables, sweet dried cranberries, and a creamy yogurt-based dressing, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a snap to make and can easily be scaled up for a summer cookout.
11 Easy Dried Cranberry Recipes
Ingredients
- Apple Cranberry Strudel
- Double Oat Granola
- Baby Greens with Mediterranean Vinaigrette
- Apple, Celery and Cranberry Salad with Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette
- Chocolate Chunk Cranberry and Walnut Cookies
- Cherry and Chocolate Energy Bars
- Balsamic-Honey Glazed Beets and Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese
- Almond, Peanut Butter and Dried Fruits Granola Bars
- Red and Green Coleslaw
- Israeli Couscous, Apple and Dried Cranberry Salad with Toasted Almonds
- Low Fat Creamy Pasta Salad
Instructions
- Select your favorite recipe from this list.
- Organize all of the required ingredients.
- Cook your meal in 30 minutes or less.
Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.