For some, the return of Pumpkin Spice may be the first signal that fall is approaching and Thanksgiving is near. But for me, I know fall has arrived when my Grandma starts buying bags upon bags of cranberries. And this season, traditional recipes are being upgraded to vegan cranberry recipes.
In addition to being chockfull of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, cranberries are incredibly versatile and are the perfect addition to any recipe. Cranberries also have several attractive health benefits, such as the prevention of UTIs, cardiovascular disease, and stomach cancer.
Feeling inspired? Check out these 12 mouthwatering vegan cranberry recipes that incorporate fresh berries, dried berries, and cranberry juice.
1. Classic Cranberry Sauce
Let’s start with the basics. For any recipe recommending cranberry sauce, I would encourage you to make your own rather than buying the (gross) canned stuff. I love my cranberry sauce a bit tangy, so I use less sugar and keep the berries whole as opposed to bursting them during the cooking process.
The best part? This is a naturally vegan cranberry recipe with no substitutions necessary.
2. Cranberry Pancakes
Before cooking these vegan pancakes on the griddle, toss half a cup of fresh cranberries with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Microwave for 15-second intervals until the mixture starts to bubble. Add to the pancake batter for a surprisingly sweet and sour treat. I’d also recommend adding some nutmeg and/or cinnamon to the batter.
Craving even more cranberries? Add some cranberry sauce on top instead of syrup. ‘Cause you can never have too many cranberries!
3. Cranberry Sauce Oatmeal
Hot creamy oatmeal accompanied by cold and sweet cranberry sauce. The only thing that would make it better? Some heart-healthy walnuts for a crunch. Don’t be afraid to drench this cranberry oatmeal in cinnamon or nutmeg as well.
4. Cranberry Meringue
Vegan meringue recipes swap the traditional egg whites for aquafaba—the liquid found in a can of chickpeas. I’d recommend using unsalted chickpeas for the most genuine meringue flavour.
5. Vegan Cranberry Oat Bars
These healthy vegan cranberry bars make the perfect on-the-go breakfast or snack for in between classes. Slather on your favourite nut butter for a protein boost to keep you satisfied.
6. Lemon Cranberry Muffins
Lemon and cranberry are a not-so-traditional flavour duo that you need to experiment with ASAP. These vegan muffins take about 30 minutes to make and use ingredients you likely have in your pantry.
7. Cranberry Hot Chocolate
This unique take on hot chocolate combines my two greatest joys in life: chocolate and fruit. Try some vegan coconut whiped cream on top if you’re feeling adventurous.
8. Cranberry Powerhouse Smoothie
The vivid colour of this smoothie will blow your mind. Freeze cranberries in bulk when they’re on sale and sip on this smoothie all winter.
9. Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies
Oatmeal raisin not your thing? Swap the raisins in this vegan cookie recipe for dried cranberries instead.
10. Cranberry Cocktails
No, I’m not talking about plain-old cranberry juice. Here are four cranberry cocktails that are way better than a plain vodka cranberry.
Whether you are a seasoned-vegan, a newbie, or just someone looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet, these vegan cranberry recipes are sure to please all palates.