Pecan–Cranberry Stuffing (No-Bake)

Cozy flavors of classic stuffing without the oven. Crunchy nuts, fresh herbs, apple or pear, and tart cranberries.

Pecan–Cranberry Stuffing (No-Bake)
Pecan–Cranberry Stuffing (No-Bake)

Ready for the coziest “stuffing” without the oven? This pecan cranberry bowl brings all the familiar holiday flavors in a fresh, crunchy mix—think herby aroma, tart pops of cranberry, sweet bites of apple or pear, and a satisfying nutty crumble that clumps just like the real thing. Spoon it into lettuce cups, pile it next to the loaf, or warm it briefly in the dehydrator for that just-made feel. Pecans and walnuts add staying power, celery and shallot keep it bright, and the herbs tie everything together. Flex your plant power and keep the feast feeling light. Next up in the series: creamy mashed cauliflower “potatoes” with savory mushroom gravy.

A little history

Ancient cooks used nuts, grains, and herbs to fill birds and roast over fires. This bowl version keeps the spirit of stuffing with raw texture and brightness.

Pecan–Cranberry Stuffing (No-Bake)
Pecan–Cranberry Stuffing (No-Bake)

Ingredient spotlight and benefits

  • Pecans and walnuts: Heart-friendly fats and antioxidants.
  • Almonds: Vitamin E and plant protein.
  • Celery, shallot, garlic: Classic stuffing aromatics.
  • Apple or pear: Soluble fiber for digestion.
  • Fresh herbs: Flavor without extra sodium.

What you need

Food processor, big mixing bowl, spatula.

Step-by-step

  1. Pulse almonds, pecans, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds into a rough crumb.
  2. Fold in celery, garlic, shallot, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, apple or pear, and the herb mix.
  3. Moisten with water and Bragg or coconut aminos until it clumps lightly.
  4. Chill at least 30 minutes so flavors marry.

Make-ahead and storage

Makes great leftovers for 3 to 4 days. Refresh with a squeeze of orange and a few chopped herbs.

Variations and swaps

  • Nut-free: Use sunflower and pumpkin seeds with hemp hearts.
  • Fruit-swap: Try chopped fresh orange segments instead of apple.
  • Warm: Dehydrate 30 to 45 minutes before serving.

Serving and plating

Spoon into butter lettuce leaves, or mound next to the loaf. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a few extra cranberries.

Nutrition (about 1 of 10 servings)

Calories: ~305 | Carbs: 21 g | Fiber: 5 g | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 24 g | Sodium: ~180 mg

FAQ

Too dry. Add a splash of water or orange juice.
Too wet. Stir in more chopped nuts or a spoon of ground flax.

Next post: Mashed Mock Potatoes + Mushroom Gravy


Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplements, or lifestyle—especially if you have existing conditions or take medication.

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