Candied Cranberries Recipe: Easy and Delicious Holiday Snack

Candied cranberries are a delightful and festive treat, perfect for the holiday season. This viral recipe, which involves soaking cranberries in a flavored liquid and coating them in powdered sugar, has gained popularity thanks to its irresistible combination of sweet and tart flavors. With just a few ingredients, you can create these charming pops of flavor that are sure to impress your friends and family.

Why Candied Cranberries Are a Must-Try

Candied cranberries offer a unique burst of flavor that is both sweet and tart. The cranberry’s natural tartness is complemented by the sweetness from the powdered sugar, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Not only do they taste delicious, but they also make a stunning addition to your holiday table, either as a garnish or a snack. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free holiday season.

Ingredients for Candied Cranberries

Here’s what you’ll need to make these festive treats:

• Fresh Cranberries: The star of the show! Fresh cranberries provide that delightful “pop” when you bite into them.
• 7Up Soda (or Prosecco): This adds a subtle sweetness and helps infuse the cranberries with flavor.
• Orange Juice (or Pineapple Juice): Adds a fruity sweetness that complements the cranberries.
• Powdered Sugar: This coats the cranberries, giving them a sugary finish that balances their tartness.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for a variation or need a substitution, here are some ideas:

• Prosecco: Swap out 7Up for Prosecco for a more adult version of candied cranberries. This adds a hint of effervescence and flavor complexity.
• Pineapple Juice: If you don’t have orange juice, pineapple juice is a great alternative that adds a tropical twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating these delicious candied cranberries is simple. Just follow these easy steps:

1. Prepare the Cranberries: In a large bowl, combine the fresh cranberries with 7Up and orange juice. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 24 hours. This soaking process allows the cranberries to absorb the flavors from the liquid.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature ensures that the cranberries dry out slightly without losing their juicy texture.
3. Coat with Powdered Sugar: After the cranberries have soaked, drain them in a colander. Transfer the cranberries to a large Ziploc bag, add the powdered sugar, and shake until they are fully coated.
4. Bake: Spread the coated cranberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If there’s excess sugar, shake the cranberries in a colander to remove it. Bake for 5 minutes—just enough time to set the sugar coating without drying out the cranberries.
5. Cool and Serve: Allow the cranberries to cool completely before serving. Once cooled, they can be placed in a serving dish or used as a garnish for holiday desserts.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Candied Cranberries

• Use Fresh Cranberries: Frozen or dried cranberries will not work well for this recipe. Fresh cranberries are essential for the best texture and the signature “pop” when you bite into them.
• Check Your Oven Temperature: To avoid over-baking, use an oven thermometer to ensure the temperature doesn’t exceed 200°F (93°C). Over-baking can cause the cranberries to lose their moisture.
• Use Fresh Powdered Sugar: Always use a new bag of powdered sugar, as opened bags can absorb odors from other foods, affecting the flavor of your candied cranberries.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Candied cranberries are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of holiday dishes:

• Use as a Garnish: Sprinkle candied cranberries over cakes, cupcakes, or other baked goods for a festive touch.
• Serve with Cheese: Pair them with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese to add a sweet and tart contrast to the creamy texture.
• Add to Cocktails: Use candied cranberries as a garnish for holiday cocktails or sparkling drinks for a pop of color and flavor.

You can also make these cranberries in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

The Health Benefits of Cranberries

Aside from their delicious taste, cranberries are packed with nutrients. They are rich in antioxidants, which help to fight inflammation and promote heart health. Additionally, cranberries are known to support urinary tract health, making them not only a treat for your taste buds but also a beneficial addition to your diet.

Conclusion

Candied cranberries are the perfect holiday treat—simple to make and bursting with flavor. Their sweet and tart combination, along with their stunning appearance, makes them an ideal addition to any festive gathering. Whether you serve them as a snack, garnish your desserts, or add a creative touch to your holiday cocktails, these delightful cranberries will surely become a cherished recipe in your seasonal repertoire. Easy to prepare and versatile in their use, candied cranberries bring a pop of joy to any occasion. Give them a try this season, and enjoy the beauty and flavor they bring to your table!

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More Relevant Recipes

• Cranberry Apple Jam Recipe: This recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples, creating a delightful jam perfect for spreading on toast or using as a topping for desserts. It’s an easy way to preserve the flavors of the season and complements candied cranberries perfectly.
• Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe: These cranberry orange scones are a delicious and zesty treat, combining the fresh, tangy flavor of cranberries with the citrusy zing of orange. They’re a perfect pairing for your morning coffee or as a festive addition to any holiday spread.
• Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: A festive and savory option, this cranberry pecan cheese ball offers a sweet and nutty contrast, making it a great appetizer to serve alongside candied cranberries during holiday gatherings. The combination of cranberries and pecans adds a crunchy and refreshing element to the rich cheese.

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