Food guide
Cranberry
Cranberries can be introduced as soon as your baby is ready for solids at 6 months. Due to their extreme tartness, they are best served cooked and mixed with sweeter fruits like apples or bananas to make them palatable for tiny taste buds.
How to serve at this age
6-9 months: Cooked and mashed into a puree, or mixed with oatmeal. 9-12 months: Stewed until soft and served as a compote over yogurt. 12+ months: Coarsely chopped and cooked into muffins or pancakes.
Nutrition
Cranberries are packed with vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and helps with iron absorption from other foods. They also contain antioxidants and phytonutrients that promote overall wellness. Their fiber content is excellent for supporting a healthy digestive tract.
A note from the editors
Balance the intense tartness by simmering cranberries with a naturally sweet fruit like pear or apple until soft.
Good to know
Raw cranberries are a significant choking hazard, so they must be cooked until soft or processed into a smooth sauce. Always serve them blended or mashed rather than whole. They are not a common allergen, but their high acidity can occasionally cause diaper rash in sensitive babies.