Candied Cranberries

If you’re looking for a festive treat that’s both sweet and tart, then Candied Cranberries are just the thing! These little gems have become a holiday favorite in our home, and I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you. The combination of fresh cranberries soaked in bubbly 7Up and orange juice, then coated in powdered sugar, creates a magical burst of flavor that everyone loves. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these candied cranberries add that special touch to any occasion.

This recipe is perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season. They’re not just delicious but also incredibly fun to make together! You’ll find yourself reaching for these vibrant treats again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create these beautiful candied cranberries without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Treat: Kids love the sweet and tangy flavor! It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Soaking the cranberries overnight means you can prepare them in advance for parties or gatherings.
• Viral Sensation: Thanks to TikTok, this trendy recipe is sure to impress your guests and spark conversations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up a batch of Candied Cranberries whenever the mood strikes. You probably have most of them on hand already!

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 recipe is flexible, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Some Spice: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist.
• Infuse with Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or lime zest into the mixture for an extra zing.
• Switch Up the Sweetener: Try using coconut sugar instead of powdered sugar for a different sweetness level.
• Mix in Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans after baking for added crunch.

How to Make Candied Cranberries

Step 1: Soak the Berries

Start by combining the fresh cranberries, 7Up, and orange juice in a large bowl. Cover it up and pop it in the refrigerator for 24 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to fully absorb into each cranberry, enhancing their flavor and making them extra delicious!

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

After soaking, it’s time to prepare your oven. Preheat it to 200ºF. Keeping the temperature low ensures that we dry out the cranberries without cooking them too much—just enough to set that sugary coating!

Step 3: Coat with Sugar

Drain the soaked cranberries using a colander. Then place them in a large Ziplok bag along with the powdered sugar. Shake vigorously until every single cranberry is coated with that snowy goodness. This step adds such a delightful sweetness!

Step 4: Bake Them Up

Transfer your coated cranberries onto a parchment-paper-lined baking sheet. If there’s any excess sugar hanging around, give them another gentle shake in a colander. Bake for only 5 minutes! Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want them just right—not too dry.

Step 5: Cool Down & Serve

Let those gorgeous candied cranberries cool down on the baking sheet before transferring them to your serving dish. Now they’re ready to be enjoyed as snacks or as a festive addition to salads or desserts!

And there you have it—your very own batch of sweet and tart Candied Cranberries! Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with your loved ones this holiday season!

Pro Tips for Making Candied Cranberries

Making the perfect batch of candied cranberries is a breeze with a few handy tips! Here are some insights to help you achieve that sweet and tart delight:

• Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh berries have the best flavor and texture. Frozen cranberries tend to be mushy once thawed, which can affect the overall outcome.
• Let Them Soak: Be patient! Letting the cranberries soak in the juices for a full 24 hours allows them to absorb moisture and flavor, resulting in a more vibrant taste and texture.
• Mind the Oven Temperature: Always check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer. Baking at too high a temperature can cause the cranberries to dry out instead of becoming delicately candied.
• Coat Evenly: When tossing the soaked cranberries in powdered sugar, ensure they are well coated. This not only enhances sweetness but also creates that beautiful sugary crust that everyone loves.
• Experiment with Juices: Don’t hesitate to switch up the juices! While orange juice is a classic choice, pineapple juice can add a tropical twist that complements the tartness of cranberries beautifully.

How to Serve Candied Cranberries

These candied cranberries shine as both a festive snack and a delightful addition to your holiday spread. Here are some creative ways to present them:

Garnishes

• Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweet cranberries.
• Orange Zest: A sprinkle of freshly grated orange zest enhances flavor while providing an appealing visual element.
• Cinnamon Sticks: For a warm touch, pair your candied cranberries with cinnamon sticks, making them perfect for stirring into holiday drinks.

Side Dishes

• Cream Cheese Dip: A smooth cream cheese dip pairs beautifully with the tartness of candied cranberries. Simply mix cream cheese with honey and serve it alongside for dipping.
• Savory Cheese Platter: Include an assortment of cheeses like brie, goat cheese, and sharp cheddar on a cheese board. The combination of sweet and savory makes for an irresistible pairing.
• Roasted Nuts: A bowl of roasted almonds or pecans adds crunch and complements the sweetness of the cranberries nicely, creating a balanced snack option.
• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together mixed greens with sliced apples, walnuts, and feta cheese. The candied cranberries can be sprinkled on top for added sweetness and color!

With these serving suggestions, your candied cranberries will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any table during your celebrations! Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with friends and family this season!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Candied Cranberries recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats whenever you need a burst of sweetness. They store beautifully, making them an excellent addition to your holiday spread or as a snack.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cranberries in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• If possible, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Place the cranberries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cranberries into an airtight freezer bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• For best results, enjoy your candied cranberries at room temperature.
• If you’d like them warm, briefly microwave them for 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid reheating them in the oven to retain their texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Candied Cranberries:

Can I use other juices instead of orange juice for Candied Cranberries?

Absolutely! You can substitute orange juice with pineapple juice or even cranberry juice for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that it’s fresh and natural for the best taste.

How do I make sure my Candied Cranberries turn out perfectly?

To achieve the best results, make sure to soak your cranberries long enough—24 hours is key! Additionally, monitor your oven temperature closely while baking to prevent drying out.

Can I use frozen cranberries for this Candied Cranberries recipe?

While fresh cranberries are ideal for this recipe, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before soaking to ensure they absorb the flavors well.

What can I serve with Candied Cranberries?

These sweet-tart delights pair wonderfully with cheese platters, salads, or as a garnish on desserts like cakes and ice creams. Their vibrant color also adds a festive touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Candied Cranberries as much as I do! Their sweet and tart flavor combination is truly special and perfect for sharing during the holiday season. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a sweet treat on your own, they’re sure to bring joy to your table. Happy cooking!