Red Hot Cranberry Applesauce: A Spicy-Sweet Symphony

There’s a certain magic in the air when the leaves begin to turn, a crispness that whispers of cozy evenings and festive gatherings. For me, that season is inextricably linked to the vibrant, tart burst of cranberries. I remember one particular Thanksgiving, years ago, when I was experimenting with side dishes that could offer a little something extra. I wanted a cranberry sauce that wasn’t just a sweet counterpoint, but something with a little kick, a playful warmth that would surprise and delight. This Red Hot Cranberry Applesauce was born from that desire, and it quickly became a beloved fixture at our holiday table, its crimson hue and spicy-sweet aroma a welcome herald of good cheer.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Servings: 8
• Yield: Approximately 4 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful side dish:

• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons red cinnamon candies (like Hot Tamales or Red Hots)
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 (3 ounce) package cherry Jell-O gelatin
• 1 cup applesauce

Equipment Needed

• Small saucepan
• Stirring spoon or whisk
• Serving bowl

Instructions

Crafting this vibrant sauce is a straightforward process, perfect for even the most novice cook looking to add a festive flair to their meal.

1. In a small saucepan, combine the water and the red cinnamon candies. Place this over medium heat.
2. Stir constantly until the red cinnamon candies are completely melted. You’re looking for a smooth, evenly colored liquid.
3. Once the water mixture begins to boil, add the cranberries.
4. Allow the cranberries to cook for 5 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will begin to soften and burst.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully add the cherry Jell-O gelatin to the hot cranberry mixture.
6. Mix well until the Jell-O gelatin has completely dissolved. Ensure there are no lumps.
7. Allow the mixture to cool for 5 minutes off the heat. This brief cooling period is important before adding the applesauce.
8. Gently stir in the applesauce until it is thoroughly combined with the cranberry-Jell-O mixture.
9. Pour the entire mixture into your chosen serving bowl.
10. Place the serving bowl in the refrigerator to set. This will typically take at least a couple of hours, or until firm.

Expert Tips & Tricks

The beauty of this Red Hot Cranberry Applesauce lies in its simplicity, but a few chef-level touches can elevate it even further.

• Quality Cranberries: Whether you opt for fresh or frozen, using good quality cranberries will make a noticeable difference in flavor. Fresh cranberries will offer a brighter, tangier profile, while frozen ones tend to be a bit softer and break down more readily.
• The Candy Factor: The “red hots” are crucial for both the vibrant color and the subtle spicy warmth. Don’t be tempted to skip them! If you can’t find traditional red cinnamon candies, other similar spicy cinnamon candies might work, but be mindful that their flavor profile could vary. The 2 tablespoons measurement is key for a balanced flavor without being overpowering.
• Dissolving the Jell-O: Make absolutely sure the Jell-O is fully dissolved. Undissolved gelatin can create an unappealing texture. Stirring vigorously will help ensure a smooth consistency.
• Applesauce Choice: The type of applesauce you use will subtly influence the final flavor. A plain, unsweetened applesauce will let the cranberry and cinnamon flavors shine, while a sweetened or spiced applesauce can add another layer of complexity. For this recipe, I prefer a classic, simple applesauce to allow the red hots and cranberries to be the stars.
• Setting Time: Patience is a virtue when it comes to Jell-O. While it might look set on top, allow ample time in the refrigerator for it to firm up completely. An overnight chill is often best for achieving the perfect wobbly texture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Red Hot Cranberry Applesauce is a versatile condiment that shines brightest as a festive side dish.

• Serving: Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator. Its vibrant crimson hue makes it a stunning addition to any plate, especially during holiday meals. It pairs exceptionally well with roasted meats like pork or chicken, and, of course, the classic Thanksgiving turkey. The spicy-sweet kick is a welcome contrast to rich, savory dishes. For a truly elegant presentation, you can spoon it into individual ramekins or a decorative serving dish.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The texture might soften slightly over time, but the flavor will remain delightful. It’s not recommended for freezing, as Jell-O products can change texture significantly upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approximate)	% Daily Value
Calories	73 kcal	–
Total Fat	0.1 g	0%
Saturated Fat	0 g	0%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	60 mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	18 g	6%
Dietary Fiber	1.2 g	5%
Sugars	10 g	20%
Protein	1 g	2%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is designed for a specific flavor profile, there’s always room for creative interpretation!

• Spicier Kick: If you desire an even more pronounced spicy note, you can increase the amount of red cinnamon candies slightly, or perhaps add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper to the water mixture along with the candies. Be cautious, as too much can overwhelm the other flavors.
• Different Fruit: While applesauce provides a lovely mellow sweetness, you could experiment with a small amount of pureed pear or even a touch of cranberry puree for a more intense fruit flavor.
• Citrus Zest: For a brighter, more complex flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of finely grated orange zest to the mixture along with the applesauce. It complements the cranberries beautifully.
• Jell-O Flavor: While cherry Jell-O provides a wonderful color and a complementary flavor, you could try strawberry Jell-O for a slightly different fruit note. Avoid flavors that might clash with cinnamon and cranberry.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! Fresh cranberries work wonderfully and will likely break down a bit more during cooking, contributing to a slightly chunkier texture if desired.

Q: How long does the red hot candy need to melt?
A: Typically, it takes about 2-3 minutes of stirring over medium heat for the candies to fully melt into the water.

Q: What is the best way to ensure the Jell-O dissolves properly?
A: Make sure the cranberry mixture is still hot when you add the Jell-O, and stir continuously until all granules have disappeared.

Q: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, this sauce is ideal for making ahead. It needs to chill to set, so preparing it the day before is perfect.

Q: Why did my sauce not set properly?
A: This could be due to not dissolving the Jell-O completely, or not allowing sufficient chilling time. Ensure the mixture is firm before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Red Hot Cranberry Applesauce is more than just a condiment; it’s a celebration of flavors and a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s a dish that brings warmth, spice, and a touch of playful fun to the table. I encourage you to give it a try, especially if you’re looking to add a unique and memorable element to your next gathering. Share it with loved ones, savor the bright, spicy-sweet explosion on your palate, and perhaps, like me, you’ll find it becoming a cherished tradition. It pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine or even a warm mug of spiced apple cider on a cool evening. Enjoy!