50+ Must-Try Fall Cranberry Recipes for Every Occasion

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fall cranberry recipes​

As the crisp air and vibrant foliage of fall approach, it’s the perfect time to celebrate one of the season’s most beloved ingredients: cranberries.

Known for their vibrant color and tart flavor, cranberries are not just a staple for Thanksgiving but also a versatile fruit that can elevate a wide range of dishes.

From refreshing salads and hearty mains to delightful desserts, cranberries can be used in countless recipes, making them a go-to ingredient for autumn cooking.

In this article, we’ve compiled over 50 creative fall cranberry recipes that showcase the versatility of this delightful fruit.

Whether you’re looking to impress your guests at a festive gathering or simply want to enjoy the flavors of the season, our collection has something for everyone.

Let’s dive into the world of cranberries and explore how to incorporate them into your fall meals!

50+ Must-Try Fall Cranberry Recipes for Every Occasion

Cranberries are more than just a holiday side dish; they can be the star of your fall menu.

With their unique tartness and beautiful hue, these berries can enhance flavors, add depth to recipes, and bring a touch of festivity to any meal.

We hope this collection of over 50 fall cranberry recipes inspires you to get creative in the kitchen and explore the wonderful possibilities that cranberries offer.

Whether you’re baking, cooking, or crafting cocktails, these recipes will help you savor the essence of autumn.

So grab a bag of fresh cranberries, roll up your sleeves, and let the delicious journey begin!

Cranberry Orange Muffins

Cranberry Orange Muffins combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with the brightness of orange zest, making them a perfect fall treat. These moist and flavorful muffins are ideal for breakfast or as a snack during cozy autumn afternoons. The blend of citrus and cranberry offers a refreshing twist, while the soft texture makes them melt in your mouth.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup fresh cranberries, chopped
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • ½ cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 large egg
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Stir in the chopped cranberries and orange zest.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling them about ¾ full.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
  8. Allow the muffins to cool slightly before serving.

These Cranberry Orange Muffins offer a balance of sweet and tart flavors that make them a delightful addition to any fall brunch. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, or store them for later—either way, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite!

Cranberry Pecan Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

This Cranberry Pecan Salad is a refreshing fall salad that brings together the tartness of cranberries, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the sweetness of maple vinaigrette. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for Thanksgiving. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a standout in any fall meal.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or baby kale)
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup toasted pecans
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 apple, thinly sliced

For the Maple Vinaigrette:

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and apple slices together.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve immediately.

This salad provides a refreshing contrast to hearty fall dishes. The combination of tangy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta cheese paired with the sweet maple vinaigrette makes it a flavorful, nutritious choice for any fall gathering.

Cranberry-Glazed Pork Tenderloin

This Cranberry-Glazed Pork Tenderloin is a savory and sweet fall dish that combines tender pork with a rich cranberry glaze. The glaze, made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and spices, perfectly complements the pork, offering a festive and flavorful dinner option. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion during the cooler months.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ lbs pork tenderloin
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground cloves
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes.
  4. Brush the cranberry glaze over the pork tenderloin and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
  5. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
  6. Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving with additional cranberry glaze on top.

This Cranberry-Glazed Pork Tenderloin is an impressive fall dish that balances the rich, savory flavors of pork with the tart sweetness of cranberries. The glaze adds a festive touch, making it perfect for special fall dinners or holiday celebrations.

Cranberry Apple Crisp

Cranberry Apple Crisp is a warm, comforting dessert that blends tart cranberries with sweet, juicy apples, topped with a buttery, crunchy oat crumble. It’s the perfect fall treat to enjoy after a hearty meal, especially when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This easy-to-make dessert brings together the best flavors of autumn.

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Crumble Topping:

  • ¾ cup rolled oats
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples and cranberries with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Spread the fruit mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.
  4. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the fruit mixture.
  5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
  6. Let the crisp cool for a few minutes before serving.

The Cranberry Apple Crisp is the ultimate fall dessert, with its combination of sweet and tart flavors, and crunchy topping. Serve it warm for the perfect cozy treat, making it a great addition to your fall dessert lineup.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Pecans

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Pecans is a savory and slightly sweet side dish that makes a perfect addition to any fall dinner. The Brussels sprouts are roasted until crispy and caramelized, while the cranberries add a pop of tartness, and the toasted pecans provide a nutty crunch. It’s a colorful, flavorful, and nutritious dish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup pecans, toasted
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
  3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and golden brown.
  4. Remove from the oven and toss with dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and balsamic vinegar.
  5. Serve immediately as a side dish.

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Pecans recipe is a wonderful blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s a healthy, satisfying side dish that adds vibrant color and taste to your fall or Thanksgiving table.

Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for fall gatherings or holiday parties. These flaky puff pastry bites are filled with gooey melted brie and a dollop of tangy cranberry sauce, making them an elegant yet easy finger food. The balance of rich brie and tart cranberries makes each bite a delightful explosion of flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 wheel of brie cheese, cut into small cubes
  • ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin.
  2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 2-inch squares. Place each square into the muffin tin cups.
  3. Add a small cube of brie cheese to the center of each puff pastry square.
  4. Top the brie with about ½ teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
  5. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the brie is melted.
  7. Garnish with fresh thyme, if desired, and serve warm.

These Cranberry Brie Bites are the perfect appetizer for fall festivities, blending the richness of melted brie with the tangy cranberry sauce. They’re easy to make, elegant to serve, and sure to impress your guests at any autumn gathering.

Cranberry Pumpkin Bread

Cranberry Pumpkin Bread is a moist, spiced loaf that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the tartness of cranberries. This recipe creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with the added richness of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s an ideal baked good for cozy autumn mornings or to enjoy with a cup of tea in the afternoon.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground cloves
  • 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
  3. In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
  5. Fold in the cranberries.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  7. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

This Cranberry Pumpkin Bread offers a perfect combination of fall flavors with its moist texture and delicious spices. Whether served at breakfast or as a dessert, it brings the essence of autumn to your kitchen.

Cranberry Turkey Meatballs

Cranberry Turkey Meatballs are a flavorful twist on classic meatballs, featuring juicy turkey combined with the tart sweetness of cranberries. These baked meatballs make a great appetizer or main dish for fall, especially with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping. The light turkey paired with the rich cranberries makes for a delicious and unique flavor combination.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ½ cup fresh cranberries, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, cranberries, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
  4. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 ½ inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil.
  6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and golden brown.
  7. Serve with cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.

These Cranberry Turkey Meatballs offer a deliciously savory yet slightly sweet flavor, making them an ideal dish for a cozy fall dinner or as an appetizer at your next gathering. The tartness of the cranberries enhances the turkey, giving each bite a burst of autumn flavor.

Cranberry White Chocolate Bark

Cranberry White Chocolate Bark is an easy-to-make fall treat that brings together the rich creaminess of white chocolate and the tartness of dried cranberries. It’s a perfect snack or gift for the holiday season, combining simple ingredients for a delightful sweet-and-tangy flavor combination. The addition of crunchy nuts like pistachios or almonds gives it extra texture and depth.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ¼ cup chopped pistachios or almonds
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  5. Sprinkle the dried cranberries and chopped pistachios or almonds over the top of the melted chocolate.
  6. Gently press the toppings into the chocolate to ensure they stick.
  7. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
  8. Once set, break the bark into pieces and serve or store in an airtight container.

Cranberry White Chocolate Bark is a quick and delicious treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or gifting during the fall season. The combination of creamy white chocolate, tangy cranberries, and crunchy nuts makes this bark a crowd-pleasing snack for any occasion.

Cranberry Pecan Salad

Cranberry Pecan Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that highlights the sweet-tart flavor of dried cranberries, paired with crunchy pecans, crisp greens, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s the perfect light side dish or starter for a fall meal, offering a balance of flavors and textures. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice during the cooler months.

Ingredients:

  • 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup pecans, toasted
  • ½ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
  • 1 small apple, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Dressing:

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, goat cheese, apple slices, and red onion.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Serve immediately as a fresh, crunchy side dish.

Cranberry Pecan Salad is a delightful way to enjoy fall’s finest flavors. The mix of sweet cranberries, nutty pecans, and creamy goat cheese, paired with a tangy dressing, makes it a refreshing yet comforting dish for any fall meal or gathering.

Cranberry Orange Muffins

Cranberry Orange Muffins are moist, flavorful treats that bring together the tartness of cranberries and the zesty freshness of orange. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these muffins are a great way to use fresh or dried cranberries during the fall season. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and wonderfully aromatic.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup orange juice
  • ½ cup butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1 ½ cups fresh or dried cranberries

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease with butter.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, melted butter, eggs, and orange zest.
  4. Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
  5. 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. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

These Cranberry Orange Muffins are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall, combining the brightness of citrus with the tartness of cranberries. They’re a versatile treat that works well as part of a breakfast spread or an afternoon snack with tea.

Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin

Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin is a flavorful main dish that features juicy pork coated in a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze. This dish is perfect for a cozy fall dinner or a special occasion. The tart cranberries complement the savory pork, creating a harmonious balance that is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pork tenderloin (about 1½ lbs)
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
  3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until browned (about 5 minutes).
  4. Brush the cranberry glaze over the pork tenderloin and transfer the skillet to the oven.
  5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
  6. Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired and serve with extra glaze.

Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin is an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that offers a perfect combination of savory and sweet flavors. The cranberry glaze adds a festive touch to the tender pork, making it an excellent choice for a fall family dinner or holiday meal.

Cranberry Apple Crisp

Cranberry Apple Crisp is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples, topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar crumble. This warm and comforting dish is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. It’s best served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups sliced apples (about 4 medium apples)
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup cold butter, cubed
  • ½ tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with cranberries, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Spread the fruit mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  3. In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the fruit.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
  6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cranberry Apple Crisp is a fantastic way to celebrate the flavors of fall. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet apples, topped with a buttery crumble, makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it warm with your favorite scoop of ice cream for a comforting end to any meal.

Cranberry Chutney

Cranberry Chutney is a versatile condiment that perfectly complements a variety of dishes, especially roasted meats. This tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce is packed with the vibrant flavors of fall, making it a fantastic addition to your holiday table. It can be made ahead of time and served chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup apple cider or juice
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • ½ cup raisins
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp allspice
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, apple cider, onion, raisins, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and cayenne pepper.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the chutney thickens.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Let it cool to room temperature before serving.
  4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Cranberry Chutney is an exceptional accompaniment that enhances the flavor of meats, cheeses, and even sandwiches. Its sweet and tangy profile makes it a delightful addition to any fall meal, bringing a burst of flavor that elevates your dishes to new heights.

Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash

Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash is a hearty and visually stunning dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. The sweet and nutty roasted acorn squash halves are filled with a delicious mixture of quinoa, cranberries, nuts, and spices, making it a nutritious main course or side dish. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, showcasing seasonal ingredients in a wholesome and satisfying way.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the acorn squash halves cut-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
  2. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed onion and garlic, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Once the squash is done roasting, remove it from the oven and fill each half with the quinoa mixture.
  5. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious and nutritious dish that brings the flavors of autumn to your table. The sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the tart cranberries and crunchy nuts, making it a memorable addition to any fall meal or holiday celebration.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!

Karina Kari

A true culinary enthusiast hailing from the sunny state of California. Passionate, creative, and adventurous in the kitchen, she has carved a remarkable identity as a home chef and a food lover. She believes that cooking is not just about preparing food; it’s an art that allows her to express her creativity and love for her loved ones.