Irresistible Cranberry Ketchup Recipe with Holiday Spices

Posted on October 25, 2025

Introduction

The tangy sweetness of cranberry ketchup combined with warm holiday spices like cloves and cinnamon is nothing short of magical. It’s the kind of condiment that has everyone asking, “What’s your secret ingredient?” This recipe has been a staple at my family’s holiday gatherings ever since I stumbled upon the idea while experimenting in the kitchen. You know that moment when cranberry sauce feels a little too traditional? That’s when I decided to give it a twist, turning it into a ketchup that’s perfect for everything from turkey sandwiches to roasted veggies.

What makes this cranberry ketchup irresistible is its vibrant flavor and festive aroma. It’s tart but balanced, with a subtle kick from the spices. Plus, it’s a breeze to make! You’ll wonder why you ever bought ketchup from the store when you taste this homemade version. Trust me, you’ll want to jar this up and gift it to everyone you know. Let me show you how easy it is to create your new favorite holiday condiment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique Flavor: A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spiced goodness that stands out from traditional ketchup.
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and a few festive favorites like cinnamon and cloves.
Versatile: Use it as a dip, spread, or glaze—it’s fantastic on sandwiches, meats, and even roasted veggies.
Perfect for the Holidays: The spices instantly evoke cozy holiday vibes, making it a great addition to Thanksgiving and Christmas meals.
Homemade Comfort: There’s nothing like the satisfaction of making something from scratch that’s better than store-bought.

What sets this cranberry ketchup apart is the addition of warm spices, which give it a depth that regular ketchup just can’t match. The cloves add a subtle earthy note, while cinnamon brings a touch of warmth that feels like a holiday hug. Plus, the vibrant red color is stunning and makes for a beautiful addition to your holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a feast or looking for a unique gift idea, this recipe has you covered.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This cranberry ketchup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. The best part? You probably already have most of these in your pantry!

Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: The star of the show! Tart and bursting with flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tanginess and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Brown Sugar: Provides the sweetness and depth that complements the tart cranberries.
Ground Cinnamon: A warm holiday spice that gives the ketchup its festive aroma.
Ground Cloves: Earthy and slightly sweet, these elevate the flavor profile.
Onion, finely chopped: Adds a savory base to the ketchup.
Garlic, minced: Because everything tastes better with a touch of garlic.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Water: Helps the cranberries cook down into a smooth sauce.

If you’re out of fresh cranberries, frozen ones work just as well. For a sugar-free option, you can substitute the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne for a little kick.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy kitchen gadgets to make cranberry ketchup, but here’s what you’ll need for best results:

Medium Saucepan: To cook the cranberries and spices into a thick, delicious ketchup.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pan.
Blender or Immersion Blender: To achieve that smooth ketchup consistency.
Fine Mesh Strainer: Optional, if you prefer an ultra-smooth texture.
Glass Jars or Containers: For storing your finished ketchup.

If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender works just as well. Just be sure to let the mixture cool slightly before blending to avoid any hot spills. And while glass jars give your ketchup that homemade charm (and are great for gifting), any airtight container will work.

Preparation Method

Cook the Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine 12 ounces (340 g) of fresh or frozen cranberries, 1 cup (240 ml) of water, and 1/2 cup (100 g) of brown sugar. Heat over medium heat until the cranberries begin to burst, about 8-10 minutes.
Add the Aromatics: Stir in 1/4 cup (60 ml) of apple cider vinegar, 1 finely chopped onion, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Season with Spices: Add 1/2 teaspoon (1.5 g) of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) of ground cloves, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and simmer for another 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Blend the Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender and blend until smooth. If you prefer a smoother texture, pass the mixture through a fine mesh strainer.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the ketchup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tanginess, or spices for depth.
Store and Chill: Transfer the ketchup to glass jars or airtight containers and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to fully develop.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Choose Fresh Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, make sure they’re firm and bright red for the best flavor.
Don’t Rush the Simmering: Take your time to let the flavors meld and the ketchup thicken. Patience pays off here!
Blend in Batches: If using a regular blender, blend in small batches to avoid spills and ensure a smooth texture.
Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning at the end to suit your preferences. A little extra cinnamon or sugar can make all the difference!
Make It Ahead: Cranberry ketchup tastes even better after sitting overnight, so don’t hesitate to prepare it a day before your big meal.

Variations & Adaptations

Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy cranberry ketchup.
Sugar-Free Option: Substitute brown sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia, monk fruit, or honey.
Herbal Twist: Try adding a sprig of rosemary or thyme while simmering for an herbal note.
Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is naturally vegan and can be paired with plant-based meals like veggie burgers.
Seasonal Swaps: In summer, swap cranberries for fresh strawberries or raspberries for a lighter, fruity ketchup.

Personally, I love adding a tiny pinch of nutmeg to the mix. It gives the ketchup an even deeper holiday flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or ham.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Cranberry ketchup is incredibly versatile and can take your meals to the next level. Here’s how to serve and store it:

Serving Temperature: Serve chilled or at room temperature—it’s delicious either way.
Perfect Pairings: Use it as a dip for sweet potato fries, a spread on turkey sandwiches, or a glaze for roasted meats.
Storage Instructions: Store in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing Tips: Freeze small portions in silicone molds or ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Flavor Development: The flavors become even richer after a day or two, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This cranberry ketchup isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with health benefits:

Low in Calories: A healthier alternative to store-bought ketchup with less sugar and more wholesome ingredients.
Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries are loaded with antioxidants that support immune health.
Anti-Inflammatory Spices: Cinnamon and cloves are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Dietary Considerations: Naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for various diets.
Potential Allergens: None! But always double-check your ingredients for cross-contamination if you’re cooking for someone with sensitivities.

Conclusion

This irresistible cranberry ketchup recipe with cloves and cinnamon is the perfect way to add a festive touch to your meals. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes. Plus, it’s a healthier, homemade alternative to store-bought condiments.

I love how it transforms even the simplest meals into something special—whether it’s a leftover turkey sandwich or a plate of crispy sweet potato fries. Give this recipe a try, and let me know in the comments how you plan to use it. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—it might just become their new favorite holiday condiment too!

Happy cooking, and remember: the best recipes are the ones you make your own. Enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them before cooking.

How long does cranberry ketchup last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I make this ketchup sugar-free?

Yes! Substitute the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia, monk fruit, or honey for a sugar-free version.

What can I pair cranberry ketchup with?

It’s great with turkey, chicken, ham, roasted veggies, or even as a dip for fries. You can also use it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps.

Can I adjust the spices in this recipe?

Of course! Feel free to add more cinnamon, cloves, or even nutmeg to suit your taste. You can also add cayenne for a spicy twist.

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