We know Wisconsin makes lots of cheese, but did you know Wisconsin also produces more cranberries than any other state? It’s the reason why this tangy red berry is our state’s official fruit. Harvested in the fall through November, cranberries are in season just in time for all our end-of-the-year holiday celebrations.
Together, cranberries and Wisconsin cheese bring bold, seasonal flavor to every meal. From breakfast to lunch to dinner (don’t forget dessert!), this distinctively tart fruit balances the savory notes of award-winning Wisconsin cheese.
So…what are we waiting for? Let’s start our holiday menu planning.
Cranberry French Toast Casserole is made for weekend brunch. Infused with orange, cinnamon and cranberries, this brioche French toast is extra decadent with White Chocolate Mascarpone Frosting on top. Creamy Wisconsin mascarpone cheese adds the right amount of tang and sweetness for serving.
We love Cranberry Ricotta Scones for a special A.M. treat (hint: Santa will too!). The tart-sweet pockets of cranberries are studded throughout the light, soft center and crunchy outside. The scone’s texture comes from adding cool, milky Wisconsin ricotta cheese to the dough.
Consider Turkey, Cranberry and Swiss Crostini your holiday ace. Homemade cranberry sauce— sweetened and laced with ginger—is stacked with slices of buttery Wisconsin Swiss, turkey and fresh basil. It makes a satisfying afternoon snack or party appetizer when you’re running low on time or unsure what to serve.
Baked brie may seem deliciously old-school, but it’s one of the easiest party appetizers. This Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is no exception. Dried cranberries, pecans, honey and warm wintry spices are piled high on a wheel of rich, earthy Wisconsin brie. Baked for 15 minutes, it’s a quick and stunning start to any holiday cocktail party.
For the main meal, try Cranberry and Walnut Cheddar-Stuffed Pork Loin. Dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, Wisconsin white cheddar cheese, and herbs are stuffed inside a roast pork loin. Cranberries add festive color and sweetness, while shredded white cheddar cheese adds nutty flavor to this hearty holiday entree.
Perhaps our favorite way to eat cranberries—dessert! These Chocolate Cranberry Holiday Bars bring merriment and joy in three distinct layers: a brownie base, cranberry-Wisconsin cream cheese filling, and swirly chocolate drizzle. They’re tangy, fruity, chocolatey and totally tasty.
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