Nutritional Value (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
Apple Cranberry Stuffing
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing combines the warm, comforting flavors of a classic stuffing recipe with a bright, tangy twist from fresh cranberries and crisp apples.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking Dish (9x13 inches or similar)
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Aluminum Foil
Ingredients
For the Stuffing:
- 10 cups day-old bread cubed (about 1 loaf; sourdough or white bread works best)
- 2 medium apples peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tsp fresh sage chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries if you want extra sweetness
- 1/2 cup cooked sausage for a meaty twist
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Cube your day-old bread into roughly 1-inch pieces.
- Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and let them sit out for about 30 minutes if they’re not quite stale. This helps them soak up the broth without getting soggy.
- Pro Tip: For extra flavor, you can toast the bread cubes lightly in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes before mixing—they get a nice golden crunch.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced apples and cook another 3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Pro Tip: Keep stirring occasionally to prevent the garlic from browning too fast—it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Add Herbs and Seasoning
- Sprinkle in the chopped sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything thoroughly so the herbs coat the vegetables and apples evenly.
- Pro Tip: Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor, so don’t skimp here.
Step 4: Combine Bread and Fruit
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed bread and fresh cranberries.
- Pour the sautéed mixture over the bread and toss gently until everything is evenly distributed.
- Slowly drizzle the broth over the bread while stirring gently to moisten evenly.
- Pro Tip: Add the broth gradually—your bread should be moist but not swimming in liquid.
Step 5: Bake the Stuffing
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the stuffing into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Pro Tip: For a fun twist, scoop portions into muffin tins to make cranberry stuffing balls—they bake faster and make adorable individual servings.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the baked stuffing for a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Serve warm alongside your turkey, gravy, or roasted vegetables.
- Pro Tip: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to help the flavors settle and make it easier to scoop.