Candied Cranberries Recipe

Introduction

I recently made this Candied Cranberries recipe for a family gathering, and I can’t say enough about how much everyone loved it! The sweet and tart combination of fresh cranberries with the hint of orange juice makes for a delightful treat that was devoured in no time. The kids enjoyed snacking on them, while the adults couldn’t stop raving about how great they looked as a garnish for desserts and holiday drinks. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that adds a festive touch to any occasion. Let me walk you through how to make this delicious treat.

Why You’ll Love This Candied Cranberries Recipe

Candied cranberries are a perfect balance of tart and sweet. When combined with the bright flavor of orange juice and coated in powdered sugar, they turn into a crispy, crunchy snack that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also work wonderfully as a garnish for holiday drinks, cakes, cupcakes, or even cheese boards. The best part? They’re made with just a handful of ingredients and require minimal hands-on time. These little gems will definitely be a hit at your next celebration!

Ingredients

To make these delicious Candied Cranberries, you’ll need the following:

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• Orange juice (enough to submerge cranberries)
• Powdered sugar (for coating)

Instructions

1. Soak the Cranberries:
   Place the fresh cranberries in a bowl. Pour in enough orange juice to completely cover the cranberries. Let them soak overnight in the refrigerator. This step helps the cranberries absorb the citrus flavor, giving them a fresh and tangy kick.
2. Drain and Coat:
   The next day, drain the cranberries thoroughly. Make sure to get rid of all excess juice. Once they’re drained, toss the cranberries in powdered sugar. Coat them well, ensuring each cranberry is evenly covered. This powdered sugar coating gives the cranberries their signature sweetness and creates a crispy outer layer.
3. Bake to Set:
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the sugar-coated cranberries in a single layer across the sheet. Place them in a preheated oven at 200°F and bake for about 5 minutes. This short baking time helps the sugar adhere to the cranberries and creates a slight crunch on the outside.
4. Cool and Enjoy:
   Once baked, remove the cranberries from the oven and allow them to cool completely. You can store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They make a perfect snack or can be used as a festive garnish on holiday treats.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and calories per serving)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 95 kcal

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings of Candied Cranberries, with each serving containing 95 calories. Keep in mind that the sugar content can vary depending on how much you coat the cranberries, but they remain a light and refreshing snack perfect for special occasions.

Preparation Time

• Soaking time: 12 hours (overnight)
• Active prep time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 5 minutes
• Total time: 12 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve

Candied Cranberries are a versatile treat that can be served in many different ways:

• As a sweet snack on their own.
• Garnished on top of cakes, cupcakes, or pies for a festive touch.
• As a topping for drinks, such as cocktails, mocktails, or hot cocoa.
• Mixed into salads to add a sweet-tart bite.
• Included in a cheese or charcuterie board for an elegant presentation.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh cranberries: Dried cranberries won’t give you the same texture or effect, so fresh cranberries are key for this recipe.
2. Don’t skip the soaking: Letting the cranberries soak in orange juice overnight is essential for infusing them with flavor.
3. Be mindful of the baking time: Only bake for about 5 minutes, as overbaking could make the cranberries hard rather than crunchy.
4. Store in an airtight container: These cranberries will stay fresh longer if stored properly, and they can last up to a week.
5. Experiment with flavors: Try adding a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract to the sugar for an extra flavor twist.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
   It’s best to use fresh cranberries for the best texture and flavor, but you can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using.
2. Can I substitute orange juice with another fruit juice?
   Yes, you can substitute the orange juice with other fruit juices such as cranberry juice, apple juice, or pomegranate juice for a different flavor profile.
3. How can I prevent the sugar coating from clumping?
   Be sure to coat the cranberries in powdered sugar immediately after draining them while they are still slightly damp. This helps the sugar adhere better.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare these candied cranberries ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
5. Do I need to bake them?
   Baking helps to set the sugar coating and makes the cranberries crispy. While you can skip this step, the result won’t be as crunchy and the sugar might not stick as well.
6. What is the best way to store these cranberries?
   Store the candied cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider refrigerating them.
7. Can I use these for holiday gifts?
   Yes, they make a wonderful homemade gift! You can package them in a decorative jar or bag and give them to friends or family for a personalized gift.
8. Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
   Powdered sugar works best as it coats the cranberries evenly, but you can use granulated sugar if you prefer. Just note that the texture might not be as smooth.
9. How do I make the cranberries extra shiny?
   For an extra glossy finish, you can lightly mist the sugar-coated cranberries with a bit of water before baking. This will help the sugar create a shiny coating.
10. Can I add more flavors to the cranberries?
    Absolutely! You can add a dash of vanilla, cinnamon, or even a bit of zest from the orange peel for a more complex flavor.

Conclusion

Candied cranberries are a sweet, tangy, and crunchy treat that will elevate any holiday spread or special occasion. This easy recipe takes minimal effort but yields a stunning result that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re snacking on them or using them as a garnish, these candied cranberries will add a festive touch to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy this delightful treat, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!

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