Candied Cranberries

If you’re looking for a festive treat that’s sure to impress, Candied Cranberries are just the thing! These little gems combine a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, making them a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is—just soak, coat, and bake! Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or bringing a dish to share at a friend’s party, these candied cranberries will be the star of the show.

As the holidays approach, it’s wonderful to have a go-to recipe that everyone loves. These candied cranberries not only taste amazing but also add a beautiful pop of color to your table. They also make for an excellent snack anytime you crave something sweet yet refreshing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: In just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delightful treats. Perfect for busy cooks!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet-tart flavor of these berries.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Soaking the cranberries overnight means you can prepare them in advance and save time on the big day.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of orange juice and 7Up gives these cranberries an irresistible taste that you won’t forget.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather the ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Candied Cranberries

• 1 12-ounce bag fresh cranberries
• 2 cups 7Up (or Prosecco)
• 1 cup orange juice (or pineapple juice)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (WITHOUT CORNSTARCH – see notes)

Variations

This Candied Cranberries recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative with some fun variations:

• Add Spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the powdered sugar for an extra flavor boost.
• Use Different Juices: Experiment with flavors by swapping out orange juice for cranberry or apple juice.
• Make Them Zesty: Incorporate some lemon zest into the sugar coating for a tangy twist.
• Try Other Sodas: If you’re not using 7Up, consider using ginger ale or sparkling water for a different taste.

How to Make Candied Cranberries

Step 1: Soak the Berries

Start by combining your fresh cranberries, 7Up, and orange juice in a large bowl. Cover it up and let it chill in the refrigerator for 24 hours. This soaking process is crucial because it allows the juices to penetrate through the cranberry skin, infusing each berry with flavor.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

After your cranberries have soaked, preheat your oven to 200ºF. A lower temperature is key here; we want to dry out the outside without losing all that juicy goodness inside!

Step 3: Coat with Powdered Sugar

Drain your cranberries using a colander, then place them in a large Ziploc bag. Add in your powdered sugar, seal it up tightly, and shake well until every cranberry gets coated. This step adds that signature sweetness we love!

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Transfer those sugary little berries onto a parchment-paper-lined baking sheet. If there’s any excess sugar left over, feel free to give them a little shake in a colander again before placing them on the sheet.

Step 5: Bake Lightly

Pop those coated cranberries into your preheated oven for just 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them; baking too long can dry them out! Using an oven thermometer can help ensure your temperature stays just right.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once they’re done baking, let your candied cranberries cool completely. Then place them in a lovely serving dish or use them as desired—maybe even as a garnish for cocktails or desserts!

Now you have everything you need to make delicious Candied Cranberries! Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with friends and family this season.

Pro Tips for Making Candied Cranberries

Making candied cranberries can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially with these expert tips to ensure your cranberries turn out perfectly!

• Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries will have the best flavor and texture. Look for berries that are firm and plump without any blemishes.
• Be Patient with Soaking: Allowing the cranberries to soak for a full 24 hours is crucial. This step helps them absorb the flavors of the juices, making them sweeter and more succulent.
• Monitor Oven Temperature: Keeping your oven at exactly 200ºF is key. A thermometer can help you avoid drying out the cranberries, ensuring they stay plump and juicy.
• Shake Off Excess Sugar: After coating the cranberries in powdered sugar, don’t forget to shake off any excess. This prevents clumping and ensures an even coating, giving each cranberry that perfect sugary sparkle.
• Experiment with Juices: Feel free to experiment with different fruit juices! Pineapple juice adds a delightful tropical twist that complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.

How to Serve Candied Cranberries

Candied cranberries are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a perfect addition to any holiday table or gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve them!

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: Adding a few sprigs of fresh mint can provide a refreshing contrast and enhance presentation.
• Crushed Nuts: A sprinkle of crushed pistachios or walnuts on top adds crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet-tart cranberries.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of candied cranberries, creating a balanced flavor profile.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with citrus dressing complements candied cranberries well. The nuttiness of quinoa adds depth while allowing the cranberries to shine.
• Stuffed Acorn Squash: This hearty dish filled with grains and nuts makes for a comforting side that echoes autumn flavors alongside your festive cranberries.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes offer a creamy counterpart to the bright tartness of candied cranberries, making every bite delightful.

These serving ideas will help elevate your candied cranberries from a simple treat to an unforgettable centerpiece on your holiday spread! Enjoy sharing this sweet and tangy delight with those you love.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Candied Cranberries recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy sweet and tart delights whenever you want! They can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making them an excellent addition to your holiday gatherings or as a snack throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover candied cranberries in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Avoid stacking them too high to prevent crushing.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the candied cranberries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months; just allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

• These candied berries are best served cold or at room temperature.
• If desired, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Be sure not to overheat as this could change their texture.

FAQs

Got questions about these delightful treats? I’ve got answers!

Can I use frozen cranberries for Candied Cranberries?

Yes, while fresh cranberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen cranberries. Just let them thaw completely before soaking.

How long do Candied Cranberries last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, Candied Cranberries can last up to one week.

Can I substitute the orange juice in Candied Cranberries?

Absolutely! You can use pineapple juice as a delicious alternative that adds a tropical twist to your Candied Cranberries.

What’s the best way to enjoy Candied Cranberries?

Candied Cranberries make a fantastic snack on their own, but they also work beautifully as a garnish on desserts, salads, or even cocktails (non-alcoholic options!).

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Candied Cranberries as much as I do! They are a perfect blend of sweetness and tartness that adds joy to any gathering. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family; they’ll love it too. Happy cooking and enjoy every sweet bite!