Cranberry Barbecue Sauce is a sweet, tangy blend that’s a great way to repurpose leftover cranberry sauce. Use it for BBQ Tofu or as a glaze for Homestyle Vegan Meatloaf for an easy seasonal twist.
New Way to Use Leftover Cranberry Sauce
I love cranberry sauce and always seem to make more than we need for Thanksgiving. This recipe is an easy way to put those leftovers to use in a way that feels fresh and a little unexpected.
The overall flavor of the sauce leans savory with a bright cranberry edge that fits the holiday season. It comes together in just a few minutes on the stove, thickens as it cools, and has a smooth, glossy finish that works well with BBQ-style recipes.
Ingredients for Cranberry Barbecue Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need. Exact amounts are listed in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Cranberry Sauce – This recipe is a great way to use leftover cranberry sauce. Whole berry or jellied work just as well.
- Barbecue Sauce – A thicker sauce works best here; avoid thin, vinegary styles that can make the mixture too sharp.
- Spices – Ground cumin and smoked paprika add a touch of warmth and mild smokiness.
- Kosher Salt – Just a pinch to round everything out.
How to Make Cranberry Barbecue Sauce
STEP ONE: Combine the Ingredients.
Set a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir well.
STEP TWO: Simmer.
Bring the mixture just to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for three minutes, stirring frequently so the bottom does not scorch.
STEP THREE: Mash for a Smoother Texture.
Use the back of your spoon to mash the berries lightly while the sauce is still warm.
STEP FOUR: Cool.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool completely, then serve. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
Make It Vegan 🌱
- Use a plant-based barbecue sauce. Several varieties are naturally vegan, but not all, so check the label for honey if you want a fully vegan sauce.
Recipe FAQ
Can jellied cranberry sauce be used?
Whole berry gives better body and a fresher texture, but jellied works if you prefer a completely smooth sauce. Skip the mashing step if using jellied.
Is heating required?
Heating helps the spices bloom and brings the mixture together. Stirring the ingredients without warming works, but the flavor is deeper and more balanced when simmered briefly.
Storage and Reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It thickens slightly after chilling and can be warmed briefly on the stove or in the microwave if you prefer a looser texture.
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Cranberry Barbecue Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Set a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture just to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for three minutes, stirring frequently so the bottom does not scorch.
- Use the back of your spoon to mash the berries lightly while the sauce is still warm.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool completely, then serve.
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