A festive, no-cook relish that's ready when you are
This overnight cranberry-orange relish is a holiday game-changer. With its glossy, jewel-like appearance and perfect balance of sweet-tart flavors, it's a make-ahead miracle for busy hosts.
Imagine a condiment that's ready to serve at your guests' arrival, yet requires no last-minute work. This cranberry-orange relish achieves that magic through overnight chilling, allowing the flavors to deepen and the texture to perfect itself.
The combination of fresh cranberries, orange zest, and warm spices creates a vibrant accompaniment that pairs beautifully with roasted meats while adding a pop of color to your holiday table.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity - no cooking required, just a quick blend and refrigeration. It's the ideal solution for hosts who want to enjoy their holiday gatherings without being chained to the kitchen.
Whether you're serving turkey, ham, or pork, this relish brings a festive flair that looks as stunning as it tastes. Save this make-ahead recipe for stress-free holiday prepping.
Why This Recipe Works
Make-Ahead Magic
Chill overnight to develop perfect flavor balance and texture. Just stir and serve on the big day.
Budget-Friendly
Uses just 5 common pantry ingredients that cost less than $5 total for 8 servings.
Crowd-Pleasing
Sweet-tart flavor profile appeals to all palates. Looks as good as it tastes.
Zero Cooking Required
No stove or oven needed - just blend, chill, and serve.
Overnight Cranberry-Orange Relish
Make-Ahead Holiday Magic
Ingredients
- - 12 oz fresh cranberries
- - 2 large oranges (zest and juice)
- - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- - 1 tbsp orange liqueur (optional)
- - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
Prepare Oranges: Zest both oranges using a microplane, then juice them to get about 1/2 cup liquid.
💡 Use a citrus press for maximum juice yield
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cranberries, orange zest, sugar, cinnamon, and optional liqueur.
💡 Use a silicone spatula for thorough mixing
Add Liquids: Stir in orange juice until cranberries are evenly coated.
💡 The mixture should be slightly loose but not runny
Chill Overnight: Cover and refrigerate for 8-12 hours to develop flavor.
💡 Stir once halfway through for best results
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Fresh Cranberries
Provide natural tartness and vibrant color. Frozen cranberries work in a pinch, but fresh yields best texture.
Substitutions: Frozen cranberries (thawed), red currants
Orange Zest
Adds bright citrus aroma. Use a microplane to avoid bitter white pith.
Substitutions: Lemon zest, orange extract (1 tsp)
Granulated Sugar
Balances tart cranberries. You can reduce to 1/3 cup for a less sweet version.
Substitutions: Honey (1/3 cup), maple syrup (1/3 cup)
Orange Liqueur
Adds depth of flavor. Optional but recommended for professional results.
Substitutions: Cognac, brandy, or omit
Pro Tips for Perfect Relish
Timing
Chill for at least 8 hours, but 12 hours yields best flavor development.
Freshness
Use cranberries with firm, plump bodies and no soft spots for best texture.
Chilling
Stir once halfway through chilling to redistribute flavors and prevent separation.
Serving
Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
Variations & Customizations
Citrus Twist
Add 1/2 cup of chopped blood orange for a deeper color and flavor.
Spiced Version
Add 1/2 tsp ground cloves or 1/4 tsp nutmeg for a spicier profile.
Berry Blend
Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped fresh raspberries for a colorful variation.
Dried Fruit
Add 1/2 cup of chopped dried apricot for a chewy texture contrast.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast turkey with herb stuffing
- Ham glazed with brown sugar
- Herb-roasted pork loin
- Grilled salmon fillets
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with sparkling wine, cranberry cocktail, or a citrus-infused ale.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare 1-2 days in advance. The flavors improve with time in the refrigerator.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Stir before serving.
Freezer Storage
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Instructions
Not recommended - best served cold or at room temperature.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Yes, but thaw them completely first and drain excess liquid to prevent a watery relish.
Q: How long should I chill?
A: Minimum 8 hours, but 12 hours allows flavors to fully develop and cranberries to soften.
Q: Can I make this without alcohol?
A: Yes, simply omit the orange liqueur. Add an extra 1/4 tsp cinnamon to compensate.
Q: Why is my relish too runny?
A: Cranberries may be over-juiced. Next time use 1/4 cup sugar and reduce liquid by 1 tbsp.
Final Thoughts
This overnight cranberry-orange relish is your secret weapon for stress-free holiday hosting. With its vibrant color and perfect balance of sweet-tart flavors, it's a showstopper that disappears quickly from the table.
The make-ahead nature means you can spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Save this recipe for your next holiday gathering and discover why it's become a family favorite year after year.
