25+ Delicious Friday Cranberry Recipes to Kickstart Your Friday Feasts

Cranberries are a beloved ingredient, especially during the fall and winter months, with their vibrant color and tart, tangy flavor that complements both sweet and savory dishes.

Fridays are the perfect opportunity to indulge in a variety of recipes that can bring flavor and freshness to the weekend ahead.

Whether you’re looking for a refreshing cocktail, a wholesome side dish, or a delightful dessert, cranberries offer endless possibilities.

In this blog post, we’ve gathered 25+ Friday Cranberry Recipes that will elevate your Friday meals and make the most of this delicious fruit.

From cranberry-infused salads and scones to cocktails and appetizers, these recipes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity and brighten up your weekend meals.

25+ Delicious Friday Cranberry Recipes to Kickstart Your Friday Feasts

Cranberries bring a burst of flavor and color to any dish, making them the perfect choice for creating a memorable Friday meal.

Whether you’re preparing a comforting salad, a zesty drink, or a decadent dessert, these 25+ Friday Cranberry Recipes will add excitement to your weekend menu.

The versatility of cranberries means you can incorporate them into both sweet and savory dishes, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

So, whether you’re hosting friends, preparing a family dinner, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these cranberry recipes will provide the perfect touch to your Friday festivities.

Cranberry Walnut Scones

Scones are a quintessential treat for tea time, but adding tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts elevates them into something truly special. This recipe brings together the sweet and tangy flavors of dried cranberries with the nuttiness of walnuts for a perfect Friday indulgence. Whether you’re starting your weekend or need a pick-me-up, these scones are a delightful way to kick off your Friday evening.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract until just combined.
5. Fold in the dried cranberries and walnuts.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, knead lightly, and shape into a 1-inch-thick round.
7. Cut into 8 wedges and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Cool slightly before serving with butter or clotted cream.

Cranberry Walnut Scones are a versatile treat that pairs perfectly with your favorite tea or coffee. Their tender, flaky texture and combination of tangy-sweet and nutty flavors make them a standout addition to any Friday snack platter. Enjoy them fresh and warm to savor the balance of buttery richness and fruity brightness.

Cranberry Glazed Meatballs

These cranberry-glazed meatballs are a fantastic combination of savory and sweet, perfect for a cozy Friday dinner or as a party appetizer. The tart cranberry glaze, enhanced with a hint of spice, pairs beautifully with the juicy meatballs. They’re quick, easy, and guaranteed to please a crowd.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 can (14 oz) cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
5. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper. Cook over medium heat until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
6. Toss the cooked meatballs in the cranberry glaze and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Serve hot with toothpicks for appetizers or over rice for a hearty meal.

Cranberry Glazed Meatballs are an irresistible fusion of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. They’re ideal for a Friday gathering, bringing warmth and flavor to the table. Whether as a finger food or a main course, these meatballs are sure to become a go-to recipe for celebratory Fridays.

Cranberry Almond Spinach Salad

Light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients, this Cranberry Almond Spinach Salad is a perfect way to balance out your Friday meals. The tart cranberries, crunchy almonds, and creamy feta cheese are beautifully tied together with a zesty homemade vinaigrette. It’s an easy-to-make dish that feels gourmet, making it a great starter or light meal option.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

For the Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine spinach, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, feta cheese, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately as a side dish or add grilled chicken for a heartier option.

Cranberry Almond Spinach Salad is a vibrant dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. The contrasting textures and flavors make every bite exciting, while the simple vinaigrette ties it all together. It’s a delightful way to brighten up your Friday menu and keep things light yet satisfying.

Cranberry Orange Muffins

Cranberry Orange Muffins are a sweet and zesty way to welcome the weekend. These muffins combine the tang of fresh cranberries with the citrusy brightness of orange zest, making them perfect for a Friday breakfast, brunch, or snack. Their moist texture and delightful flavor make them an instant crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, milk, and orange zest until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the cranberries.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool slightly before serving.

Cranberry Orange Muffins are the epitome of a warm and comforting treat. They’re light, flavorful, and bursting with tangy-sweet goodness. Perfect for a relaxing Friday morning or to pack for a weekend outing, these muffins are bound to brighten anyone’s day.

Cranberry BBQ Chicken Wings

If you’re craving something savory with a fruity twist, these Cranberry BBQ Chicken Wings are the answer. Perfect for a Friday night game or a casual gathering, these wings are coated in a sticky, tangy cranberry barbecue sauce that will leave everyone licking their fingers.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken wings
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Pat the chicken wings dry and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the wings on the baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through.
4. In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, ketchup, vinegar, honey, and smoked paprika. Simmer over medium heat until thickened.
5. Once the wings are cooked, toss them in the cranberry BBQ sauce until fully coated.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

These Cranberry BBQ Chicken Wings are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. Whether it’s for a Friday night movie marathon or a weekend party, these wings are sure to impress. Pair them with a cool drink for a truly indulgent treat.

Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites

Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites are the ultimate elegant appetizer for a Friday get-together. The buttery, flaky puff pastry combined with creamy brie and tart cranberry sauce creates a bite-sized masterpiece. Easy to make and visually stunning, these bites are always a hit at parties.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 small wheel of brie cheese, cut into cubes
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: Chopped fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into 2-inch squares.
3. Place each square into a mini muffin tin slot, pressing gently to form a cup.
4. Add a cube of brie cheese to each cup, followed by a teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
5. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
7. Garnish with fresh rosemary, if desired, and serve warm.

Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites are a delightful way to start your Friday evening festivities. Their rich and tangy flavors combined with the crisp, buttery pastry make them a sophisticated yet simple appetizer. Enjoy the compliments from your guests as these bites disappear in minutes!

Cranberry Smoothie Bowl

The Cranberry Smoothie Bowl is a refreshing, healthy, and vibrant start to your Friday morning. Packed with antioxidants from the cranberries and topped with granola, coconut, and chia seeds, this smoothie bowl is both delicious and nourishing. It’s a great way to fuel up for the weekend, whether you’re looking for a light breakfast or a post-workout snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen cranberries
• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Toppings: granola, chia seeds, shredded coconut, fresh berries

Instructions:

1. Place the frozen cranberries, banana, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth, adding more milk if needed to reach a thick consistency.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and smooth the top with a spoon.
4. Add your favorite toppings, such as granola, chia seeds, coconut, or fresh berries.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy a delicious, nutrient-packed bowl!

The Cranberry Smoothie Bowl is a vibrant, nutrient-dense way to start your Friday. The tartness of the cranberries combined with the sweetness of the banana and the crunch of the toppings makes each spoonful a satisfying treat. It’s an ideal choice for a Friday morning to keep you energized throughout the day.

Cranberry Apple Crisp

Cranberry Apple Crisp is the perfect dessert to round off your Friday dinner. The sweet-tart combination of apples and cranberries, topped with a crumbly oat and brown sugar topping, creates a comforting dessert that’s both delicious and easy to make. This crisp is ideal for cooler fall or winter evenings, and it pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Ingredients:

• 3 large apples, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, toss the sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it forms a crumbly topping.
4. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the fruit.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the fruit is bubbly.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Cranberry Apple Crisp is a warm, comforting dessert that brings a touch of sweetness and tartness to your Friday night. The combination of tender apples, tart cranberries, and a crunchy topping is hard to resist. It’s the perfect way to unwind and treat yourself at the end of the week.

Cranberry Pecan Bread

Cranberry Pecan Bread is a simple, wholesome loaf that is perfect for Friday’s breakfast or as a snack with tea or coffee. The tart cranberries and crunchy pecans add texture and flavor to a classic quick bread. This recipe can be made in advance, making it an excellent choice for preparing ahead of time and enjoying throughout the weekend.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add the buttermilk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Gently fold in the cranberries and pecans.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cranberry Pecan Bread is a simple yet delicious treat that makes for a cozy start to your Friday. With its light, moist texture and the perfect balance of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, this bread is both comforting and flavorful. It’s an ideal recipe for enjoying throughout the weekend or gifting to a friend.

Cranberry Almond Granola

Cranberry Almond Granola is a crunchy and sweet combination of oats, almonds, and dried cranberries. This homemade granola is perfect for a healthy Friday snack or a topping for yogurt or smoothie bowls. It’s full of fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious way to start your Friday morning or to enjoy throughout the day.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the oats, sliced almonds, dried cranberries, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the oat mixture and stir until evenly coated.
5. Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and fragrant.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet before storing in an airtight container.

This Cranberry Almond Granola is the perfect Friday morning treat or snack. It’s healthy, customizable, and so easy to make. With its crunchy texture, sweet honey flavor, and tart cranberries, it’s sure to keep you satisfied until your next meal. Add it to yogurt or enjoy it by the handful—either way, it’s a great way to kick off the weekend!

Cranberry Sauce with Orange and Ginger

Cranberry Sauce with Orange and Ginger is a zesty twist on the classic cranberry sauce, enhanced with the flavors of fresh orange and a touch of ginger. It’s the perfect side dish for a Friday night meal, whether you’re serving it with turkey, pork, or enjoying it on toast. The balance of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors makes this sauce a delightful addition to your Friday feast.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
• 1/2 cup water
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, grated ginger, water, and salt.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
5. Transfer to a serving dish and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cranberry Sauce with Orange and Ginger is an elevated version of a classic, bringing a fresh, vibrant flavor to your Friday meal. Whether served alongside savory dishes or used as a spread, this sauce adds a beautiful pop of color and flavor. It’s simple to make and a great way to brighten up any Friday dinner.

Cranberry Lemon Scones

Cranberry Lemon Scones are a delightful Friday morning treat, offering a perfect balance of tart cranberries and zesty lemon in a soft, buttery scone. They’re ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon tea. With their light, flaky texture and refreshing citrus flavor, these scones are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Optional: glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the cranberries and lemon zest.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, and lemon juice.
6. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
7. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead until it comes together. Shape into a disk about 1-inch thick.
8. Cut the dough into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. If desired, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.

Cranberry Lemon Scones are a wonderful way to celebrate the start of the weekend. The tangy cranberries and refreshing lemon come together in these flaky, buttery scones, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate Friday morning indulgence.

Cranberry Chicken Salad

Cranberry Chicken Salad is a light, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a Friday lunch or dinner. The sweetness of dried cranberries, paired with the savory chicken, crunchy celery, and tangy dressing, creates a refreshing and satisfying meal. This salad is easy to prepare, and it can be served on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or as a sandwich, making it a versatile option for your Friday meals.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, celery, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Serve the cranberry chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, in a wrap, or as a sandwich on your favorite bread.
5. Refrigerate any leftovers for up to 2 days.

This Cranberry Chicken Salad is a delicious and nutritious option for your Friday meals. The sweetness from the cranberries contrasts perfectly with the savory chicken, while the creamy dressing ties it all together. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in multiple ways and makes for a great make-ahead meal for a busy Friday.

Cranberry Brussels Sprouts

Cranberry Brussels Sprouts is a festive and flavorful side dish perfect for your Friday dinner. The combination of caramelized Brussels sprouts with tart cranberries creates a beautiful contrast in flavors. This dish is both savory and slightly sweet, and it pairs well with roasted meats or grilled fish. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the seasonal ingredients of fall and winter.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, tossing halfway through.
4. Add the fresh cranberries to the baking sheet and continue roasting for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the cranberries have softened.
5. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped pecans before serving.

Cranberry Brussels Sprouts is a savory yet slightly sweet side dish that will elevate any Friday dinner. The caramelized Brussels sprouts and tart cranberries offer a perfect balance of flavors, and the optional pecans add a delightful crunch. This is a great recipe for the holiday season, or whenever you’re craving a dish that’s both healthy and delicious.

Cranberry Mojito

The Cranberry Mojito is a refreshing and festive twist on the classic mojito, perfect for a Friday evening cocktail. The tartness of cranberries pairs beautifully with fresh mint and lime, creating a vibrant and refreshing drink. This cocktail is light, bubbly, and perfect for unwinding after a busy week.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 2 oz white rum
• 1 tbsp simple syrup
• Club soda
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge and mint sprig, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cranberries and mint leaves together until the cranberries burst and the mint is fragrant.
2. Add the lime juice, white rum, and simple syrup to the shaker and fill with ice.
3. Shake well for about 10 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and gently stir.
6. Garnish with a lime wedge and a mint sprig.

The Cranberry Mojito is a fun and festive drink that adds a vibrant touch to your Friday evening. It’s a light and refreshing cocktail with a balance of tart cranberries, sweet mint, and zesty lime. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cocktail is the perfect way to celebrate the start of the weekend.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!