Imagine a cranberry sauce so vibrant and delicious that it transforms your holiday table from ordinary to extraordinary! This Slow Cooker Ginger Apple Cranberry Sauce isn't just a side dish—it's a culinary experience that will have your guests begging for the recipe. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this easy-to-make sauce combines the tartness of cranberries, the sweetness of apples, and the warm, spicy kick of fresh ginger, creating a condiment that's both sophisticated and comforting.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 cups
Ingredients
- 1 bag (12 oz) fresh cranberries
- 2 cups apples, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Wash the fresh cranberries thoroughly and inspect for any damaged or soft berries, removing them.
- Peel and dice the apples into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/2 inch in size to ensure even cooking.
- Grate the fresh ginger using a microplane or fine grater to release its intense flavor and aromatic oils.
- Add the cranberries, diced apples, sugar, water, grated ginger, and ground cinnamon into the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat setting, which will allow the ingredients to simmer and meld together gradually.
- Cook the mixture for approximately 4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- As the sauce cooks, the cranberries will burst and break down, creating a rich, thick consistency.
- Taste the sauce after 3 hours and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if needed, stirring thoroughly.
- Once the sauce reaches a jam-like consistency and the fruits are completely softened, remove from heat.
- Let the cranberry sauce cool at room temperature for 30 minutes before transferring to storage containers.
- Refrigerate the sauce, which will continue to thicken as it cools, and can be stored for up to one week.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select firm, plump cranberries and crisp apples for the best texture and flavor.
- Ginger Matters: Use fresh ginger root for a more intense, aromatic flavor compared to dried ground ginger.
- Stirring is Key: Occasionally stir the sauce to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Sweetness Control: Taste and adjust sugar levels to suit your preference, especially after the 3-hour mark.
- Cooling Technique: Allow the sauce to cool at room temperature to help it achieve the perfect, jammy consistency.
- Storage Tip: This sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a week, making holiday prep easier.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature for the most balanced flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
