As the holiday season approaches, the scent of savory roasts fills the air, evoking memories of joyful gatherings and cozy family dinners. One dish that never fails to impress is my Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket. This one-pan meal transforms a simple cut of beef into a festive masterpiece, simmered in a rich, sweet-tart sauce crafted from cranberry and Guinness. Imagine delighting your loved ones with tender brisket that practically melts in your mouth, all while keeping kitchen cleanup to a minimum. Plus, with a gluten-free option available, it’s a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table. Ready to bring comfort and cheer to your holiday feast? Let’s dive into the details of this heartwarming recipe! Why is this brisket a holiday favorite? Simplicity: This Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket requires minimal effort, with just one pan needed for a hassle-free cooking experience. Tender Perfection: You’ll enjoy fork-tender brisket pampered in a luscious sauce, which combines the unique flavors of cranberry and Guinness, tantalizing everyone’s taste buds. Versatile Serving: Perfect alongside garlic butter fondant potatoes or creamy garlic mashed potatoes, this dish easily adapts to your favorite sides. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With its rich flavor and gluten-free option, it’s sure to become the star of any holiday gathering. Comforting Aroma: As it roasts, your kitchen will fill with an enchanting scent, setting the perfect scene for cherished memories with your family and friends. Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Ingredients For the Brisket • Brisket (3.5 pounds, flat cut) – This main protein provides heartiness; opt for flat cut for optimal tenderness. • Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Helps the seasoning stick and adds richness to the dish. • Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor profile. • Black Pepper (1 teaspoon) – Adds a touch of heat to balance the sweet elements. For the Seasoning • Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon) – Boosts the herbaceous notes in the recipe. • Dried Rosemary (1 teaspoon) – Infuses a fragrant earthiness into the brisket. • Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Provides savory depth to the seasoning mix. • Onion Powder (1 teaspoon) – Forms a solid flavor foundation for the brisket. For the Sauce • Yellow Onion (1 piece) – Offers sweetness as the flavor base; dice and slice for cooking. • Garlic (5 cloves, minced) – Adds a delightful aromatic boost to the sauce. • Shallot (1, diced) – Enhances the sauce with mild sweetness. • Cranberry Jelly (14 ounces) – Combines sweet and tart flavors to balance the meat’s richness. • Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Introduces umami depth and complexity. • Guinness (½ cup) – Deepens flavor while tenderizing the brisket; substitute with beef broth for a gluten-free version. For the Roasting Pan • Red Potatoes (1 pound, petite) – Cook alongside the brisket; they’ll soak up delicious flavors. • Dried Cranberries (1 cup) – Adds chewy texture and a burst of festive sweetness. • Fresh Rosemary (3 sprigs) & Fresh Thyme (3 sprigs) – Garnish with these herbs to bring fresh herbal notes to your pivotal dish. Set yourself up for success with these delicious Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket ingredients and prepare to impress your guests! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Step 1: Prepare the Brisket Remove the 3.5-pound brisket from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. This step ensures even cooking. While you wait, preheat your oven to 250°F (121°C). This low temperature helps to tenderize the meat as it roasts. Step 2: Season the Brisket In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the brisket with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to help the seasoning adhere. Generously coat the brisket with the seasoning mixture, covering all sides, to enhance the flavor of your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket. Step 3: Chop the Aromatics Dice half of a yellow onion and thinly slice the other half for the sauce. Mince 5 cloves of garlic and dice 1 shallot. These aromatic ingredients will form the base of your savory-sweet sauce, adding delightful depth to your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket. Step 4: Sauté Aromatics In a saucepan over medium heat, add the diced onion, shallot, and minced garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the sauce that will accompany the brisket. Step 5: Create the Sauce Add 14 ounces of cranberry jelly, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and ½ cup of Guinness to the saucepan. Stir well to combine the ingredients and bring the mixture to a low simmer. Allow it to cook for 10 minutes, thickening slightly and melding the flavors of your sauce for the Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket. Step 6: Assemble the Dish Pour half of the prepared sauce into a roasting pan and layer the thinly sliced onions on the bottom. Place the seasoned brisket fat side down in the center of the pan, and pour the remaining sauce over the top, ensuring it’s well-coated for even flavor and moisture as it roasts. Step 7: Add Vegetables and Herbs Surround the brisket with petite red potatoes and 1 cup of dried cranberries for added texture and flavor, soaking up the delicious sauce. Garnish with 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary and 3 sprigs of fresh thyme. Cover the roasting pan tightly with foil to retain moisture during the roasting process. Step 8: Roast the Brisket Transfer the covered pan into your preheated oven, roasting for about 4 hours. The brisket is ready when it becomes fork-tender and easily shreds apart. During this time, your kitchen will fill with enchanting aromas of your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket, signaling a warm and festive gathering ahead. Step 9: Rest the Brisket Once cooked, remove the brisket from the oven and uncover it, allowing it to rest for 30 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial for retaining the juices, ensuring every slice of your holiday brisket is as tender and flavorful as possible. Step 10: Slice and Serve To serve, slice the brisket against the grain for the most tender bites. Plate alongside the roasted potatoes, garnished with additional herbs if desired. Your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket is ready to be the star of your festive gathering! How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Fridge: Store leftovers in the roasting pan or transfer to airtight containers. Consume within 3 days for optimal flavor and freshness. Freezer: Freeze portions of the Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label clearly to make meal planning easy! Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to preserve the texture and flavor. Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 300°F (149°C) for about 20-30 minutes, covered with foil, to prevent drying out. Expert Tips for Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Resting Time: Allow the brisket to rest for 30 minutes post-roasting. This step keeps the juices intact, leading to a moist and flavorful Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket. Against the Grain: Always slice the brisket against the grain. This technique ensures more tender bites and enhances the overall texture of the meat. High-Sided Roasting Pan: Choose a roasting pan with high sides. This prevents delicious juices and toppings from spilling over during cooking, maintaining flavor and moisture. Check Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning in your sauce before pouring it over the brisket. A well-seasoned sauce is key for a rich and delightful flavor profile in this holiday dish. Include Dried Cranberries: Don’t skip the dried cranberries! They add a chewy texture and complement the sweet-tart sauce, making the Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket more festive and flavorful. What to Serve with Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Pairing delightful sides with your holiday brisket will elevate your festive meal to new heights, transforming your table into a celebration of flavors. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, velvety potatoes provide a comforting, rich texture that balances the savory brisket beautifully. Their creaminess complements the sweet-tart sauce perfectly, making every bite feel indulgent. Roasted Carrots: Sweet and tender, roasted carrots add a pop of color and a natural sweetness that harmonizes with the tangy cranberry sauce. Toss them with a touch of honey and thyme for an aromatic side. Green Bean Casserole: This holiday classic, with its creamy base and crispy topping, introduces a satisfying crunch alongside the fork-tender brisket. It’s a familiar favorite that brings nostalgia to your festive gathering. Garlic Butter Fondant Potatoes: These beautifully golden potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, soaking up the delectable flavors from the brisket’s sauce. Their aromatic garlic notes enhance the whole meal experience. Cranberry-Orange Relish: Adding a refreshing zing, this bright relish provides a tart contrast that cuts through the richness of the beef, leaving your palate refreshed with each bite. A Smooth Red Wine: A glass of fruity red wine enhances the dining experience, with its structured tannins complementing the brisket’s robust flavor, creating a harmonious pairing that’s bound to impress your guests. Pumpkin Cheesecake: Finish your feast with a creamy pumpkin cheesecake, adorned with spiced whipped cream. Its rich flavors celebrate the season and provide a sweet ending that leaves everyone satisfied. Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and add your personal touch to the deliciousness! Guinness Substitute: Replace Guinness with beef broth or cola for a non-alcoholic version without sacrificing flavor. The brisket will still soak up all the savory goodness! Fresh Berry Twist: Use fresh cranberries instead of jelly for tartness; balance their natural bitterness with a little extra sugar. This adds a delightful burst of flavor and a vibrant color to the dish. Gluten-Free Version: For gluten-free options, switch to gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and opt for gluten-free beer or simply stick with beef broth. Everyone can enjoy this festive meal without worry! Vegetable Boost: Add carrots or parsnips to the roasting pan for extra roasted vegetables alongside the brisket and potatoes. They’ll soak up the sauce and add a sweetness that complements the meat beautifully. Sweet & Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper along with the seasonings for a subtle heat that chases away the winter chill. Your guests will love the unexpected warmth! Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into your seasoning blend for a hint of smokiness that enhances the overall depth of the dish. This is especially inviting for those who love a barbecue flavor. Cranberry-Pistachio Accent: Top the finished brisket with a handful of chopped pistachios for added crunch and a unique flavor twist. Pair this with Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti for a delightful dessert to follow! Remember, these variations are all about reflecting your taste and making memories with your loved ones around the table! Whether you’re inspired by other comforting favorites like Cheesy Ground Beef or looking to experiment, let your creativity flow in the kitchen! Make Ahead Options These Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can season the brisket and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them separately to maintain flavor and quality. For an even quicker option, you can brown the aromatics and mix the sauce a day before your gathering. When you’re ready to cook, reassemble the brisket with the sauce and vegetables in the roasting pan, cover tightly with foil, and roast as directed. This way, your holiday meal will be just as delicious with minimal effort on the day of your celebration! Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right brisket? Absolutely! When selecting brisket, opt for a flat cut, which is known for its tenderness and even cooking. Look for a cut that has a good layer of fat on top; this fat will baste the meat as it cooks, keeping it moist and flavorful. Avoid briskets with excessive dark spots or an off smell, as these may indicate spoilage. What’s the best way to store leftovers? For optimum flavor and freshness, store any leftovers of your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing portions instead, which can last for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers for easy identification later! Can I freeze the brisket? Definitely! Freezing is a great way to preserve your delicious brisket. After cooking, allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, slice the brisket and place it in airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. For best results, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. What common issues should I look out for? Very! One common issue with brisket is overcooking, which can lead to dryness. To avoid this, always check for fork-tenderness and allow it to rest after roasting. Another tip is to slice against the grain, which ensures each bite remains tender and easy to chew. If the sauce feels too thick during cooking, simply add a little beef broth to achieve your desired consistency. Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions? Yes, it can be! For a gluten-free option, substitute the Guinness with beef broth or a gluten-free beer, and ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well. Also, if you have allergies, make sure to double-check ingredient labels, particularly for the cranberry jelly and any added seasonings. This recipe can easily accommodate various dietary needs, allowing everyone at your table to enjoy! How should I reheat leftover brisket? To reheat your brisket, preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C). Place the brisket in a baking dish and cover it with foil, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the moisture and flavors you’ve worked so hard to create! Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket: Your Festive Family Feast Delight in this Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring tender beef simmered in a rich cranberry and Guinness sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 4 hours hrsResting Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 5 hours hrs Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Brisket3.5 pounds Brisket, flat cut opt for flat cut for optimal tenderness1 tablespoon Olive Oil helps seasoning stick and adds richness1 teaspoon Salt enhances overall flavor1 teaspoon Black Pepper adds a touch of heatFor the Seasoning1 teaspoon Dried Thyme boosts the herbaceous notes1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary infuses a fragrant earthiness1 teaspoon Garlic Powder provides savory depth1 teaspoon Onion Powder forms a solid flavor foundationFor the Sauce1 piece Yellow Onion offers sweetness; dice and slice for cooking5 cloves Garlic, minced adds aromatic boost1 Shallot, diced enhances sauce with mild sweetness14 ounces Cranberry Jelly combines sweet and tart flavors1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce introduces umami depth½ cup Guinness substitute with beef broth for gluten-free versionFor the Roasting Pan1 pound Red Potatoes, petite cook alongside the brisket1 cup Dried Cranberries adds chewy texture and sweetness3 sprigs Fresh Rosemary garnish for fresh herbal notes3 sprigs Fresh Thyme garnish for fresh herbal notes Equipment roasting panSaucepanCutting boardKnife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsRemove the brisket from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. Preheat the oven to 250°F (121°C).Mix together salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the brisket with olive oil and coat generously with the seasoning mixture.Dice half of the yellow onion, mince garlic, and dice shallot.In a saucepan over medium heat, cook the diced onion, shallot, and minced garlic for about 5 minutes until softened.Add cranberry jelly, Worcestershire sauce, and Guinness to the saucepan. Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes.Pour half of the sauce into a roasting pan. Layer the sliced onions, place the brisket, and pour the remaining sauce over the top.Surround the brisket with red potatoes and dried cranberries. Garnish with rosemary and thyme. Cover tightly with foil.Roast in the oven for about 4 hours until fork-tender.Remove brisket from the oven and allow to rest for 30 minutes before slicing.Slice against the grain and serve with the roasted potatoes. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 40gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 20mg NotesResting the brisket is crucial for retaining juices. Slice against the grain for tender bites. Use a high-sided roasting pan to maintain moisture and flavor. Taste sauce before pouring over brisket for proper seasoning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
