Zesty Classic: Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe

If there’s one dish that deserves a permanent spot at your holiday table, it’s the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe. Bursting with tart berries, citrus zing, and a kiss of sweetness, this no-cook classic has graced American tables for generations — and it’s ready in minutes.

Overview of the Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe

The Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe is more than just a side dish — it’s a piece of American culinary history. Developed by Ocean Spray in the mid-20th century as a vibrant alternative to cooked cranberry sauce, this recipe combines fresh cranberries, whole orange (yes, with the peel!), and sugar into a tangy, textured condiment that wakes up everything on the plate.

There’s something magical about how the bitterness of the orange peel balances the tart snap of cranberries, with sugar tying it all together. This relish doesn’t just sit politely on the side of your plate — it dances on it. The aroma alone — a mix of citrus oil, crushed berries, and holiday nostalgia — is enough to make your mouth water.

Unlike many holiday recipes that simmer for hours, this one embraces simplicity. In just five minutes with a food processor, you get a dazzling cranberry dish that feels homemade and fresh. And because it’s raw, it keeps that delightful crunch and zing that cuts through rich roasts and gravies like a bright November breeze.

Over the decades, countless families have added their own twist — a splash of apple juice, a handful of chopped pecans, or even a grating of ginger. But at its heart, the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe remains one of the most beloved and enduring Thanksgiving traditions across America.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make the classic Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe. These quantities yield about 2½ to 3 cups — enough for 6 to 12 servings depending on appetite and table spread.

Classic Ingredients:

• 1 (12 oz) bag of fresh cranberries, rinsed and drained (Ocean Spray brand preferred)
• 1 medium orange, unpeeled, seeded, and quartered
• ¾ to 1 cup granulated sugar, to taste

Optional Add-ins (Choose Your Adventure):

• ½ small apple, cored and chopped
• ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1–2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger or ground ginger
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• Pinch of cinnamon or allspice
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, as sugar substitute or flavor booster

You can follow the basic version to honor tradition or add some flair depending on your audience. We’ll explore substitutions and upgrades more deeply in the next section — but know that this recipe is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and totally customizable.

Necessary Tools for Preparation

This is one of the most low-maintenance recipes in your holiday lineup. You only need a few kitchen staples to whip this up like a pro.

Must-Have Tools:

• Food processor or blender – This is essential to get the relish chopped fine without turning it into mush.
• Rubber spatula – For scraping down sides and transferring the mixture.
• Large mixing bowl – To stir in sugar and any mix-ins evenly.
• Citrus juicer or microplane (optional) – If you prefer to use zest instead of orange peel, or want to juice part of the orange.
• Airtight storage container – Glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers work well for storing leftovers or making ahead.

This recipe proves that simplicity can be dazzling. No need to heat the stove, monitor temperatures, or time anything meticulously. Just prep, pulse, mix, and chill.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

The beauty of the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe lies in its flexibility. While the three core ingredients — cranberries, orange, and sugar — are sacred, there’s plenty of room to adapt the relish for dietary needs, flavor preferences, or what’s in your pantry.

Sweetener Swaps

If you’re cutting down on refined sugar or want to experiment with natural sweetness, try one of these alternatives:

• Maple syrup: Adds earthy depth and works especially well when paired with pecans.
• Honey: Floral and rich, honey complements the tart cranberries beautifully.
• Stevia or monk fruit: For a sugar-free version, use a granulated sugar substitute. Start with less and taste as you go — these tend to be much sweeter by volume.
• Apple juice concentrate: A subtle and child-friendly swap with natural sugars.

Citrus Tweaks

Prefer a more delicate citrus flavor?

• Use only orange zest: Skip the peel and just zest the orange for brightness without bitterness.
• Mandarin or tangerine: Sweeter and less acidic than standard oranges, these work well for those with sensitive palates.

Texture & Flavor Boosters

Want to make the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe your own signature holiday touch? These additions add texture, spice, or a creative twist:

• Grated fresh ginger: Adds a spicy zing that’s lovely with roast meats.
• Chopped celery or cucumber: For a crunchy, refreshing bite.
• Jalapeño or red chili flakes: Adds heat — perfect for savory sandwich pairings.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds introduce buttery crunch.
• Crushed pineapple or diced green apple: Brighten the mix with tropical or orchard sweetness.
• Cinnamon or allspice: Warm spices enhance the holiday feel.

Dietary Considerations

• Sugar-Free: Use erythritol or monk fruit granules and balance with natural fruit sweetness.
• Low-Acid: Choose tangerine instead of orange, and reduce cranberry content slightly with apples or pears.
• Nut-Free: Skip pecans or walnuts entirely or replace with sunflower seeds for crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

The Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe comes together in under five minutes and rewards you with a punchy, tangy-sweet flavor that gets better as it rests. Here’s exactly how to make it:

❶ Rinse and Prepare the Cranberries

Wash 1 (12 oz) bag of fresh Ocean Spray cranberries under cold water, removing any soft or shriveled berries. Drain well. Their deep red color and firm skin should glisten when they’re ready.

Tip: You can use frozen cranberries — just thaw them completely and pat dry.

❷ Quarter the Orange and Remove Seeds

Take 1 whole medium orange and cut it into quarters. Do not peel it — the rind adds complexity and bitterness that balances the sugar. Remove any visible seeds.

Tip: If you’re worried about bitterness, you can zest the peel and discard the pith and rind, though this slightly alters the traditional taste.

❸ Add to Food Processor and Pulse

Place the cranberries and orange quarters in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse about 8–12 times until everything is finely chopped — not puréed. You’re aiming for a chunky, relish-like consistency, where small flecks of cranberry and orange peel remain visible.

The smell here is intoxicating: citrus oils meet cranberry tartness in a bright, zesty cloud.

❹ Stir in Sugar and Optional Add-ins

Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Stir in ¾ to 1 cup sugar, depending on your taste preference. Mix well until the sugar dissolves slightly. If adding extras (pineapple, apple, ginger, etc.), fold them in at this stage.

Tip: Taste after 5 minutes and adjust sugar or acid levels. Cranberries mellow slightly as they sit.

❺ Chill and Let Flavors Mingle

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. This step is key — the sugar draws out juices, softens the berries, and melds the flavors.

After a night in the fridge, the relish transforms from bright and bracing to harmonized and rich — like a jammy, crunchy cranberry salad.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe is how versatile it is beyond the Thanksgiving spread. Its tart-sweet profile, lively color, and fresh texture make it a showstopper in more ways than one.

Classic Holiday Pairings

• Thanksgiving or Christmas Dinner: Serve alongside roast turkey, chicken, or even beef brisket. The relish cuts through richness with its bright acidity.
• Stuffing Companion: Spoon it on a slice of cornbread stuffing — the contrast is pure holiday harmony.
• Roast Veggie Topping: Add a spoonful over roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or acorn squash.

Leftover Magic

• Sandwich Spread: Elevate turkey sandwiches by layering cranberry relish with arugula, cheese, and a touch of mustard or mayo.
• Panini Filling: Pair with brie or gouda on ciabatta and grill to melty perfection.
• Wraps & Pitas: Tuck it into a chicken wrap with spinach, feta, and a creamy dressing.

Appetizers & Cheese Boards

• Cranberry Brie Bites: Spoon onto puff pastry rounds with a cube of brie, then bake until golden.
• Cheese Boards: Serve in a small dish alongside sharp cheddar, goat cheese, or Manchego for a sweet-acid balance.
• Croissant Spread: A smear on a warm croissant transforms it into a gourmet bite.

Sweet & Creative Uses

• Yogurt Swirl: Mix into plain Greek yogurt with chopped nuts for a festive breakfast.
• Oatmeal Topper: A spoonful warms up cold mornings with zing and texture.
• Dessert Garnish: Drizzle over pound cake, cheesecake, or vanilla ice cream for a cranberry-citrus punch.

This relish isn’t just for the fourth Thursday in November — it’s a condiment you’ll crave long after the holidays are over.

Tips for Best Results

Getting the most out of the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe means paying attention to just a few simple tricks. These tips ensure each batch is vibrant, balanced, and crave-worthy.

Make It Ahead

• Chill Time Is Crucial: Always give your relish at least 2 hours to sit. Overnight is best — it allows the sugar to fully dissolve and the fruit to release its juices.
• Make 1–2 Days in Advance: Flavors deepen beautifully with a little time, making this a perfect prep-ahead dish.

Balance Bitterness & Sweetness

• Orange Peel Choice: Leaving the peel on gives bitterness and complexity — but if it’s too bold, use zest only or peel and remove pith before processing.
• Adjust Sugar to Taste: Start with ¾ cup, then increase if needed. Fresh cranberries vary in tartness by batch.

Use the Right Equipment

• Food Processor > Blender: A food processor gives better texture control. Blenders can turn the mixture too watery or mushy.
• Pulse, Don’t Purée: You want pieces — not sauce. Stop once the mix looks coarse and colorful.

Keep It Cool

• Chill Immediately: Relish stays crisper and more flavorful when it’s cooled promptly and stored properly.
• Glass > Plastic: Use a glass jar or bowl to prevent staining and preserve flavor.

Pro Tip: Label the container and tuck it in the back of the fridge to build anticipation and keep it safe from sneaky spoonfuls!

Storage Instructions

Once made, this relish is as low-maintenance as it gets. It stores well, travels beautifully, and keeps its bright flavor far beyond the big meal.

Refrigeration

• Shelf Life: Up to 14 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Best Containers: Glass jars, Pyrex bowls with lids, or tightly sealed plastic containers all work well.

Freezing

• Can You Freeze It? Yes — and it freezes beautifully!
• Freezer Time: Up to 3 months. Portion into small containers so you can thaw just what you need.
• Thawing Tip: Defrost in the refrigerator overnight. Stir well before serving to restore texture.

Note: The texture softens slightly after freezing, but the flavor stays bright and true.

FAQ

Can I make the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe without a food processor?

Absolutely. While a food processor gives you the best texture, the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe can also be made with a blender or chopped by hand. Just aim for a coarse, even texture and be sure to mix the sugar in thoroughly.

Is this the original Ocean Spray recipe?

Yes — this version of the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe closely follows the classic that’s been featured on Ocean Spray cranberry bags for decades. It stays true to the original ingredients while offering flexible add-ins and updated serving ideas.

Can I can the relish for long-term storage?

The Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe is a raw dish, so it isn’t suitable for home canning. To preserve it, store in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for later. For shelf-stable cranberry sauces, look for tested cooked versions instead.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Definitely! The Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe works beautifully with frozen cranberries. Just thaw them fully and pat them dry to prevent excess liquid from watering down your relish.

Can I make it less sweet?

Yes — the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe is very flexible. Start with less sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Because the cranberries are raw, the flavor will mellow as it rests.

Conclusion

There’s a reason the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe has stood the test of time: it’s fast, festive, and unforgettable. It brings just the right amount of brightness to rich meals and fills the kitchen with the scent of citrus and tradition.

Whether you grew up with this dish or are making it for the first time, the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe is more than a side — it’s a signal that the holidays have arrived. It’s in the flash of a food processor blade, the vibrant flecks of cranberry and orange, the satisfying pop of the jar opening.

Make it your own, serve it often, and pass it down. Because sometimes, the simplest recipes become the most loved.

Print

Additional Recommended Recipes

Pair beautifully with your Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe or use up extra cranberries with these dishes:

• Peach Jalapeño Jam – A delightful balance of sweet peaches and spicy jalapeños, perfect for adding a kick to your morning toast or serving alongside cheese.
• Persimmon Jelly – Smooth and subtly sweet, this jelly captures the essence of ripe persimmons, making it an elegant addition to your breakfast table.
• Apricot Pineapple Jam – A tropical fusion of tangy apricots and juicy pineapple, this jam brings a sunny brightness to any dish.
• Spicy Dill Pickles – Crisp cucumbers infused with bold dill and a hint of heat, offering a zesty crunch that’s a great complement to rich holiday meals.

These recipes continue the theme of vibrant, flavorful accompaniments that elevate any meal—just like your new favorite cranberry relish.