Cranberry Cocktail Sausages recipe

Every holiday season, the quest for the perfect appetizer begins. Something festive, flavorful, easy to prepare, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. For years, I struggled to find that one recipe that ticked all the boxes. Then, one Thanksgiving, in a moment of pantry-scouring desperation, I stumbled upon a can of cranberry sauce and a package of cocktail sausages. An idea sparked, a quick experiment ensued, and Cranberry Cocktail Sausages were born! Let me tell you, these little bites of deliciousness were an instant hit. The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce perfectly complements the savory sausages, creating a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and festive. They’re incredibly easy to make – seriously, almost embarrassingly so – and require minimal ingredients. Since that fateful Thanksgiving, Cranberry Cocktail Sausages have become a non-negotiable appetizer at every holiday gathering in my family. They disappear within minutes, leaving behind only empty platters and requests for the recipe. They are the ultimate party food – simple enough for a casual get-together, yet elegant enough for a more formal holiday affair. If you’re looking for a foolproof, delicious, and incredibly easy appetizer that will impress your guests and become a holiday tradition, look no further. These Cranberry Cocktail Sausages are your answer, and I can’t wait to share this simple magic with you!

Ingredients for Festive Cranberry Cocktail Sausages

The ingredient list for Cranberry Cocktail Sausages is delightfully short and sweet, making it a breeze to whip up even at the last minute. High-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor, but even pantry staples can create a truly delicious appetizer.

• Cocktail Sausages: 1 pound (450g) – These are the stars of the show! You can use your favorite brand of cocktail sausages. Little Smokies are a popular choice, known for their smoky flavor and readily available nature. However, feel free to experiment with other types of small sausages. Beef, pork, or even chicken cocktail sausages will work. Look for pre-cooked sausages to simplify the recipe and ensure they are safe to eat after a relatively short cooking time. If you are using sausages that are not pre-cooked, you will need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
• Cranberry Sauce: 1 (14-ounce) can (approximately 400g) – Canned cranberry sauce is the key ingredient that provides the signature sweet and tangy flavor. You can use either jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce. Jellied cranberry sauce will result in a smoother, more uniform glaze, while whole berry cranberry sauce will add a bit more texture and visual appeal with the whole cranberries. For an even more homemade touch, you can use homemade cranberry sauce, but canned sauce is perfectly convenient and delicious for this recipe. If using homemade cranberry sauce, aim for a similar consistency and flavor profile to canned sauce – a balance of sweetness and tartness is essential.
• Brown Sugar: ¼ cup (50g), packed – Brown sugar adds depth of sweetness and a touch of molasses flavor that complements the cranberry sauce and sausages beautifully. It also helps to create a slightly caramelized glaze as the sausages cook. You can use light or dark brown sugar. Dark brown sugar will provide a richer, more intense molasses flavor. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute with granulated sugar, but the brown sugar adds a unique flavor dimension that is highly recommended.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon – Dijon mustard provides a tangy kick and a subtle savory note that balances the sweetness of the cranberry sauce and brown sugar. It adds complexity and prevents the glaze from being overly sweet. Dijon mustard is preferred for its smooth texture and sharp flavor, but you can substitute with yellow mustard in a pinch, although the flavor profile will be slightly different. Spicy brown mustard would also work for a more robust flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon – Worcestershire sauce is a secret weapon for adding umami and depth of flavor to the glaze. Its savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes enhance the overall flavor profile and create a more complex and balanced sauce. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can omit it, but it does contribute significantly to the overall taste. Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar could be used as substitutes, but the flavor will be altered.
• Optional Ingredients (for added flavor and customization):
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon – For an extra tang and brightness, apple cider vinegar can enhance the tartness of the cranberry sauce and balance the sweetness.
  • Orange Zest: 1 teaspoon – Fresh orange zest adds a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor that complements cranberry beautifully, especially during the holiday season.
  • Fresh Rosemary or Thyme: 1 teaspoon (chopped finely) – Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme add a savory and aromatic dimension, especially nice during fall and winter. Dried herbs can be used as well, but fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor.
  • Garlic Powder or Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon each – For a subtle savory base note, garlic powder or onion powder can be added to the glaze.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (or to taste) – For a touch of heat, red pepper flakes add a subtle spicy kick that balances the sweetness and tanginess. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
  • Ginger (ground or grated fresh): ½ teaspoon – Ground ginger or freshly grated ginger adds a warm and slightly spicy note that pairs well with cranberry, especially around the holidays.
  • Maple Syrup or Honey: 1 tablespoon – For a richer sweetness, maple syrup or honey can be added in addition to or instead of some of the brown sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cranberry Cocktail Sausages

Making Cranberry Cocktail Sausages is incredibly easy and quick, perfect for stress-free party preparation. Follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven (or prepare slow cooker/stovetop): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Alternatively, if using a slow cooker, set it to low or high. If using the stovetop, have a large skillet ready.
2. Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a medium saucepan (for oven or stovetop methods) or directly in the slow cooker, combine the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Add any optional ingredients like apple cider vinegar, orange zest, herbs, spices, or heat at this stage.
3. Heat and Simmer Glaze (Oven/Stovetop): For Oven Method: Place the saucepan over medium heat on the stovetop. Stir constantly until the brown sugar is dissolved and the sauce is heated through and slightly simmering. This will take about 5-7 minutes. For Stovetop Method: Follow the same stovetop heating instructions.
4. Add Sausages to Glaze: For Oven Method: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the cocktail sausages to the saucepan and stir gently to coat them completely with the cranberry glaze. For Slow Cooker Method: Add the cocktail sausages directly to the slow cooker with the glaze ingredients and stir to coat. For Stovetop Method: Add the cocktail sausages to the skillet with the glaze and stir to coat.
5. Bake, Slow Cook, or Simmer Sausages: For Oven Method: Transfer the sausage and glaze mixture to an oven-safe dish (casserole dish or baking dish). Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausages are heated through and the glaze has thickened slightly. Stir gently halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and glazing. For Slow Cooker Method: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-1.5 hours, or until the sausages are heated through and the glaze has thickened. Stir occasionally. For Stovetop Method: Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausages are heated through and the glaze has thickened to your desired consistency. Be careful not to let the glaze scorch on the bottom of the skillet.
6. Serve Warm: Once the Cranberry Cocktail Sausages are heated through and the glaze has thickened, they are ready to serve! Carefully transfer them to a serving dish using a slotted spoon or tongs, allowing excess glaze to drain off if desired. Garnish with fresh cranberries, chopped parsley, or rosemary sprigs (optional) for visual appeal.
7. Keep Warm (Optional): If you are not serving immediately, you can keep the Cranberry Cocktail Sausages warm in a slow cooker on the warm setting or in a chafing dish to maintain their temperature for your guests. For the oven method, you can also keep them warm in the oven on a very low setting (around 200°F/95°C) for a short period, but be mindful that prolonged oven warming can dry them out slightly.

Nutrition Facts for Cranberry Cocktail Sausages (Estimated)

Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific brands of cocktail sausages and cranberry sauce used, portion sizes, and ingredient variations.

Serving Size: Approximately 3-4 Cranberry Cocktail Sausages (about ¼ of the recipe if using 1 pound of sausages)
Calories per Serving: Approximately 200-300 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

• Protein: 8-12 grams
• Fat: 12-20 grams (depending on the type of cocktail sausage)
  • Saturated Fat: 5-8 grams (depending on the type of cocktail sausage)
  • Unsaturated Fat: Varies
• Cholesterol: 40-60 mg
• Sodium: 500-800 mg (depending on the type of cocktail sausage and cranberry sauce)
• Carbohydrates: 15-25 grams
  • Fiber: 1-2 grams
  • Sugar: 12-20 grams (mostly from cranberry sauce and brown sugar)

Important Considerations:

• Cocktail Sausage Type: The type of cocktail sausage you choose will significantly impact the fat and calorie content. Leaner sausages will reduce the fat content, while fattier sausages will be higher in calories and fat.
• Cranberry Sauce Sugar Content: Canned cranberry sauce can be high in sugar. Choose a lower-sugar or no-sugar-added cranberry sauce option to reduce the sugar content of the recipe. Homemade cranberry sauce allows you to control the sugar level.
• Serving Size: The nutritional information is based on a serving of 3-4 sausages. Adjust portion sizes and calculate nutritional information accordingly for your needs.

For more accurate nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use in this recipe.

Preparation Time for Cranberry Cocktail Sausages

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (includes measuring ingredients and combining glaze)
• Cook Time:
  • Oven: 20-25 minutes
  • Slow Cooker: 1.5-3 hours (depending on setting)
  • Stovetop: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time:
  • Oven: Approximately 30-35 minutes
  • Slow Cooker: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Stovetop: Approximately 25-30 minutes

This recipe is incredibly efficient, especially with the stovetop and oven methods. The slow cooker method requires longer cooking time but is very hands-off, making it ideal for busy days or when you want to prepare ahead of time.

How to Serve Cranberry Cocktail Sausages: Festive Serving Suggestions

Cranberry Cocktail Sausages are perfect as a standalone appetizer, but you can elevate your presentation and create a more festive spread with these serving suggestions:

Serving Vessels and Presentation:

• Serving Platter: Arrange the warm sausages on a decorative serving platter. Garnish with fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs, orange slices, or chopped parsley for visual appeal and a festive touch.
• Toothpicks or Skewers: Serve with toothpicks or small skewers for easy grabbing and dipping. This is especially convenient for parties and gatherings.
• Chafing Dish or Slow Cooker (Warm Setting): Keep the sausages warm in a chafing dish or slow cooker set to warm for longer events, ensuring they stay at the perfect serving temperature throughout your party.
• Mini Crock-Pot or Buffet Server: Individual mini crock-pots or buffet servers can be used to serve the sausages warm, adding a charming and practical touch to your buffet table.
• Festive Bowls: Serve in festive bowls, perhaps lined with parchment paper for easier cleanup and a more decorative look.

Accompaniments and Dips (Optional):

• Mustard Dip: Offer a side of Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, or honey mustard for dipping. The tanginess of mustard complements the sweetness of the cranberry glaze.
• Cream Cheese Dip: A simple cream cheese dip or a spiced cream cheese dip can provide a creamy contrast to the savory sausages and tangy cranberry sauce.
• Spicy Mayo: A spicy mayonnaise or sriracha mayo can add a kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Cranberry Relish or Chutney: Serve alongside a homemade cranberry relish or chutney for extra cranberry flavor and texture variation.
• Crackers or Bread: Offer a platter of assorted crackers, baguette slices, or crostini for guests to enjoy with the sausages.
• Cheese Cubes: Serve alongside cheese cubes (cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack) for a complementary savory element on your appetizer platter.

Garnishes for Festive Appeal:

• Fresh Cranberries: Scatter fresh cranberries around the sausages for a pop of color and festive touch.
• Rosemary Sprigs: Rosemary sprigs add a fragrant and wintery aroma, visually appealing and seasonally appropriate.
• Orange Slices or Zest: Orange slices or a sprinkle of orange zest enhance the citrus notes and add brightness.
• Chopped Parsley or Chives: Freshly chopped parsley or chives provide a touch of green and freshness.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can add a nutty flavor and visual texture, especially if using an Asian-inspired glaze variation.

Serving Occasions:

• Holiday Parties: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and other holiday gatherings.
• Game Day: A crowd-pleasing appetizer for football games or sports viewing parties.
• Potlucks and Buffet Tables: Easy to transport and serve at potlucks and buffet-style events.
• Casual Get-Togethers: Simple enough for casual parties, family gatherings, or weeknight appetizers.
• Cocktail Parties: Ideal finger food for cocktail parties and happy hour events.

Additional Tips for Perfect Cranberry Cocktail Sausages

Here are five essential tips to ensure your Cranberry Cocktail Sausages are always a hit:

1. Don’t Overcook the Sausages: Cocktail sausages are already pre-cooked, so the goal is to heat them through and glaze them, not to cook them from raw. Overcooking can make them dry or tough. Follow the recommended cooking times and check for doneness – they should be heated through and plump, not shriveled or dry.
2. Adjust Glaze Consistency to Your Preference: The glaze will thicken as it cooks and cools. If you prefer a thinner glaze, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or apple cider vinegar to the sauce before cooking. For a thicker glaze, simmer for a slightly longer time (especially on the stovetop) to reduce the sauce.
3. Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Before adding the sausages, taste the cranberry glaze and adjust seasonings to your liking. Need more sweetness? Add a bit more brown sugar or maple syrup. Want more tang? Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Prefer more savory notes? Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder. Spice it up? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
4. Use Quality Cocktail Sausages: The flavor of the cocktail sausages is crucial to the overall taste of the appetizer. Choose good quality cocktail sausages that you enjoy. Little Smokies are a popular and reliable choice, but explore other brands and types (beef, pork, chicken) to find your favorite.
5. Prepare Ahead for Stress-Free Entertaining: Cranberry Cocktail Sausages are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the glaze and cook the sausages up to a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them gently in the oven, slow cooker, or stovetop before serving, adding a splash of liquid (water or apple cider vinegar) if the glaze has become too thick during storage. This make-ahead option is a lifesaver for busy hosts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cranberry Cocktail Sausages

Here are five frequently asked questions about Cranberry Cocktail Sausages, along with their answers to help you make this appetizer perfectly every time:

Q1: Can I make Cranberry Cocktail Sausages in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, absolutely! The slow cooker is a fantastic method for making Cranberry Cocktail Sausages, especially for parties or when you want a hands-off approach. Simply combine all the glaze ingredients and the cocktail sausages in the slow cooker, stir to coat, and cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-1.5 hours, or until heated through and the glaze has thickened. The slow cooker keeps them warm and ready to serve for extended periods, making it ideal for gatherings.

Q2: Can I use homemade cranberry sauce instead of canned?

A: Yes, you can definitely use homemade cranberry sauce! Homemade cranberry sauce can add an even more gourmet touch to this appetizer. Ensure your homemade cranberry sauce has a similar balance of sweetness and tartness to canned cranberry sauce. If your homemade sauce is very thick, you might need to add a tablespoon or two of liquid (water or apple cider vinegar) to achieve the desired glaze consistency.

Q3: How do I keep Cranberry Cocktail Sausages warm for a party?

A: There are several ways to keep Cranberry Cocktail Sausages warm for a party:

• Slow Cooker (Warm Setting): The slow cooker is ideal for keeping them warm for extended periods on its “warm” setting.
• Chafing Dish: A chafing dish with a heat source underneath will keep the sausages warm on a buffet table.
• Oven (Low Setting): You can keep them warm in the oven on a very low setting (around 200°F/95°C) for a short period, but be careful not to dry them out. Cover them loosely with foil.
• Electric Buffet Server: An electric buffet server with warming trays is another convenient option for keeping appetizers warm at parties.

Q4: Can I make Cranberry Cocktail Sausages ahead of time?

A: Yes, Cranberry Cocktail Sausages are excellent for making ahead of time! You can prepare them completely, cook them, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven, slow cooker, or stovetop before serving. Add a splash of liquid (water or apple cider vinegar) when reheating if the glaze has thickened too much during storage.

Q5: Can I add other ingredients to the glaze for Cranberry Cocktail Sausages?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the glaze to your taste preferences. Some delicious additions include:

• Spices: Ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, allspice for a warmer, holiday spice profile.
• Citrus: Orange zest, lemon zest, orange juice, lemon juice for extra brightness.
• Heat: Red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, a dash of chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
• Sweetness: Maple syrup, honey, extra brown sugar for a richer sweetness.
• Savory: Garlic powder, onion powder, soy sauce for deeper savory notes.
• Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, sage for aromatic complexity.

Experiment with different combinations to create your own signature Cranberry Cocktail Sausage glaze!

Enjoy making and serving these incredibly easy and festive Cranberry Cocktail Sausages! They are sure to become a cherished appetizer tradition for your holiday gatherings and beyond.

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