Description
Cranberry Apple Stuffing combines the bright tartness of fresh cranberries and Granny Smith apples with the smoky richness of smoked turkey bacon and fresh herbs. Enhanced by plant-based spices, natural Worcestershire sauce, and a natural gelling agent, this baked dish offers a balanced and flavorful side perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups whole grain or sourdough bread cubes (slightly stale)
- 1 cup smoked turkey bacon, diced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup Granny Smith apples, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 tablespoons plant-based (natural) butter
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (plant-based, natural)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (plant-based, natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread Cubes: Cube the whole grain or sourdough bread into bite-sized pieces and let them dry out slightly to ensure they absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
- Sauté the Aromatics and Bacon: In a large skillet, melt the plant-based (natural) butter, then add the chopped onion and celery. Cook until soft and fragrant. Add the diced smoked turkey bacon, cooking until crisp and infused with smoky richness.
- Add Fruits and Herbs: Stir in the fresh cranberries, diced apples, and the chopped rosemary, sage, and thyme. Combine gently and allow the fruits to release their juices slightly, blending with the herbs’ aroma.
- Bring It All Together: Transfer the sautéed mixture into a large bowl with the bread cubes. Add the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), plant-based spices (cinnamon and nutmeg), vegetable broth, and apple cider vinegar. Gently fold until bread is evenly coated but not soggy. Add the natural gelling agent and mix lightly to help bind the stuffing during baking.
- Bake Until Golden: Transfer the mixture into a buttered baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until the top is golden and crisp and the inside remains moist and flavorful.
Notes
- Use slightly stale bread for better moisture absorption without sogginess.
- Gently fold ingredients to maintain the bread’s texture.
- Use freshly chopped herbs for optimal aroma and flavor.
- Cook turkey bacon thoroughly to add crispness and depth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before baking.
- Allow stuffing to rest a few minutes after baking for flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: cranberry, apple, stuffing, smoked turkey bacon, fresh herbs, plant-based spices, holiday side dish, baked stuffing