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Cranberry Apple Stuffing

Cranberry Apple Stuffing


  • Author: Brian
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Cranberry Apple Stuffing is a vibrant and comforting dish combining tart fresh cranberries, crisp apples, and savory smoked turkey bacon. Enhanced with plant-based butter and natural flavoring herbs, this stuffing offers a moist, flavorful filling with a slightly crisp crust, perfect for festive dinners and family gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 200g smoked turkey bacon, chopped
  • 150g fresh cranberries
  • 2 medium crunchy apples, diced
  • 6 cups sourdough or rustic bread cubes, lightly toasted
  • 1 cup diced onions
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 2 tbsp fresh sage (natural flavoring), chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme (natural flavoring), chopped
  • 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 3 tbsp plant-based butter
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bread cubes: Cut the chosen sourdough or rustic bread into small cubes. Lightly toast them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until golden and slightly crisp to help absorb liquids without becoming soggy.
  2. Sauté the aromatics and smoked turkey bacon: In a large skillet, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant. Stir in chopped smoked turkey bacon and sauté until it browns slightly and releases its savory aroma.
  3. Combine fresh fruits and herbs: Add fresh cranberries, diced apples, chopped sage, and thyme to the skillet. Cook until cranberries begin to release their juices, adding a tangy color and flavor to the mixture.
  4. Add liquids and bread: Pour in the vegetable broth and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. Gently fold in the toasted bread cubes, tossing carefully to ensure the bread fully soaks up the moisture and flavors.
  5. Incorporate the natural gelling agent: Lightly sprinkle the natural gelling agent over the mixture to bind ingredients delicately, helping the stuffing hold its shape and consistency when baked.
  6. Bake to perfection: Transfer the stuffing mixture to a buttered baking dish. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the inside is cooked through, yielding a slightly crisp crust with a moist, flavorful filling.

Notes

  • Cube bread a day ahead for better texture and absorption.
  • Use fresh crisp apples and cranberries for optimal flavor.
  • Do not skip the smoked turkey bacon to maintain the savory smoky depth.
  • Adjust seasoning, including salt and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, just before baking.
  • Cover with foil during baking to keep moist, removing near the end to crisp the top.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cranberry apple stuffing, holiday stuffing, smoked turkey bacon stuffing, plant-based stuffing, festive side dish, gluten free stuffing