Cherry Wood Smoked Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Maple
Forget the canned cranberry sauce. This Cherry Wood Smoked Cranberry Sauce takes a Thanksgiving classic and gives it the Smoking Swines treatment. Fresh cranberries, bright orange zest, warm cinnamon, and rich maple syrup come together with a subtle kiss of cherry wood smoke for a holiday side that's anything but ordinary.
Smoking cranberries adds a whole new layer of flavor. As the berries slowly soften and burst, they pick up a delicate wood-fired character that balances their natural tartness. Cherry wood is our favorite choice because its mild, fruity smoke complements the cranberries without overpowering their bright flavor.
Fresh orange juice brings a refreshing citrus note, while maple syrup and brown sugar provide just the right amount of sweetness. A touch of cinnamon and nutmeg rounds everything out with warm holiday spices. The result is a thick, rich cranberry sauce that's equally delicious served warm or chilled.
This sauce is the perfect companion to a juicy smoked turkey breast, wood-fired ham, or a plate piled high with Thanksgiving sides. It also makes an incredible topping for smoked cream cheese or a spread for leftover turkey sandwiches. Best of all, you can make it a day or two ahead, allowing those smoky, sweet, and tart flavors to develop even further.
Ingredients
- 24 oz fresh cranberries, rinsed
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Smoker: Fire up your offset smoker and stabilize the temperature at 225°F using cherry wood. Maintain a clean, light smoke throughout the cook.
- Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse the cranberries and remove any damaged berries. Spread them evenly in a shallow, smoker-safe stainless steel pan.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add orange juice, maple syrup, brown sugar, water, orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and kosher salt. Stir until evenly combined.
- Start Smoking: Place the uncovered pan in the smoker at 225°F for 60 minutes. Stir every 20–30 minutes to ensure even smoke exposure.