I bake a lot of desserts that call for dried cranberries (craisins) but more times than I can count I’ve already started baking before realizing I was all out! If you are in the same boat, or just want a great dried cranberry alternative then you’re in luck. I’ll let you know the best substitutions for dried cranberries no matter what recipe you are making.
So what are the best substitutes for dried cranberries?
The best replacements for dried cranberries are dried cherries and raisins. Dried cherries are excellent for adding some tart to your recipe while raisins will provide a bit more sweetness to your dish.
You can also go with a few other dried fruits such as prunes, dried apricots, and dried blueberries for an interesting cranberry replacement.
So let’s get into each substitute and why they make a great alternative to dried cranberries.
What Are Dried Cranberries Used For?
Dried cranberries are used for a wide variety of cooking and baking. Choose from a dainty berry salad, a sweet trail mix, or an energizing and flavorful breakfast treat. Dried cranberries can also be mixed into fruit salads or served as a healthy dessert option.
They find there way into my cookies, cakes, cupcakes and so much more!
Dried Cranberry Alternatives
Tart Dried Cherries
Tart dried cherries are a great substitute for dried cranberries. They are tart but not too tart making them a perfect balance for sweet desserts and baked goods.
You can use dried cherries in any of your favorite recipes that call for cranberries. I love using them because they don’t add a “cranberry-like” flavor to my dessert, they add their own distinct flavor to the treats while still retaining the tanginess of fresh cranberries.
Raisins
Raisins are my most used alternative to dried cranberries. They are sweet, and delicious but not overly sugary tasting. The best part is that they come pre-packaged for convenience! I can easily add them to the recipe I’m making without worrying about measuring out a handful of random dried fruits.
Dried Apricots
Dried apricots are another favorite substitute of mine for dried cranberries. They are a great sweet option with the tartness of dried cherries, and they don’t add any bitterness to the final result. Dried apricots are especially nice in warm tea or fruit-based beverages, or as a topping for your morning oatmeal.
If you’re using dried apricots as a baking alternative to dried cranberries then be sure to also add a little extra sugar. The fruit is naturally very sweet so the extra sugar will really make your treat pop.
Dried Blueberries
Dried blueberries are another great faux-cranberry. They are tart and sweet with a slightly fruity flavor and they’re super easy to incorporate into recipes that call for cranberries. You can use dried blueberries in muffins, pancakes, breads, and more!
Bottom Line
Dried cranberries will always be near and dear to my heart, but it’s nice to have a few different options for those occasions when I’m out of dried cranberries!
Do you have a favorite alternative to dried cranberries? Be sure to share it with us below in the comments!