Candied Cranberries

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your holiday gatherings, look no further than these Candied Cranberries! They are the perfect combination of sweet and tart, making them a hit with everyone. This recipe has taken the internet by storm, especially on TikTok, and I can see why! It’s super easy to whip up and adds a festive touch to any occasion—from busy weeknights to big family feasts. Plus, they make for an irresistible snack that you can enjoy at any time.

What makes this recipe so special is not just the flavor but the joy it brings when shared with friends and family. Imagine popping these little jewels into your mouth and enjoying their burst of flavor while reminiscing about cherished memories. Trust me, once you make these Candied Cranberries, they’ll become a beloved staple in your holiday traditions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious treats ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to grandparents will love the sweet-tart taste of these cranberries.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Soak the cranberries a day ahead for effortless entertaining!
• Festive Appeal: Their vibrant color makes them a beautiful addition to any holiday table.
• Healthier Snack Option: Enjoy the natural goodness of cranberries without guilt!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about making Candied Cranberries is that you only need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Gather these items from your kitchen or local grocery store, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a tasty treat that everyone will adore!

For the Soaking Mixture

• 1 12 ounce bag fresh cranberries
• 2 cups 7Up (or Prosecco)
• 1 cup orange juice (or pineapple juice)

For Coating

• 1 cup powdered sugar (WITHOUT CORNSTARCH – see notes)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors or textures. Here are some fun ideas:

• Try Different Juices: Substitute orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical twist!
• Add Spices: Toss in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg with the powdered sugar for added warmth.
• Mix Up the Sweetener: Use coconut sugar instead of powdered sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Infuse Flavors: Consider soaking cranberries in flavored sparkling water or herbal teas for an aromatic experience.

How to Make Candied Cranberries

Step 1: Soak the Cranberries

Start by combining the fresh cranberries, 7Up, and orange juice in a large bowl. Cover it up and let it chill in the refrigerator for 24 hours. This step is crucial because it allows the juices to infuse into each cranberry, enhancing their flavor. Patience pays off here!

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Once your cranberries have soaked long enough, go ahead and preheat your oven to 200ºF. This low temperature ensures that we gently dry out the cranberries without compromising their juicy goodness.

Step 3: Coat with Sugar

Drain the soaked cranberries in a colander and transfer them into a large Ziplok bag. Add the powdered sugar and shake vigorously until every single cranberry is coated in that sweet goodness. It’s like giving each cranberry its own little sugary hug!

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Spread those coated beauties onto a parchment-paper lined baking sheet. If you notice excess sugar clinging onto them, don’t worry—just give them another gentle shake in the colander.

Step 5: Bake Lightly

Now comes the exciting part! Bake your coated cranberries for just 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them; if they bake too long or at too high of a temperature, they might dry out. Using an oven thermometer can help ensure accuracy—trust me; it’s worth it!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

After baking, allow your candied cranberries to cool completely before transferring them into a serving dish. You can now enjoy them as is or use them as a festive garnish on desserts or salads!

There you have it—a lovely recipe for Candied Cranberries that’s sure to become one of your favorites! Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with loved ones during this special season!

Pro Tips for Making Candied Cranberries

Making the perfect candied cranberries can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your treat to new heights!

• Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries will provide the best flavor and texture. Frozen cranberries can become mushy when thawed, which may not give you the satisfying crunch you want in each bite.

• Be Patient When Soaking: Allowing the cranberries to soak for a full 24 hours is crucial. This step ensures that the juices fully penetrate the cranberries, balancing the tartness with sweetness effectively.

• Check Your Oven Temperature: Always use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven stays at 200ºF. Baking at a higher temperature could dry out your cranberries, resulting in a less enjoyable texture.

• Avoid Excess Sugar: After coating, gently shake off any excess powdered sugar before baking. Too much sugar can lead to clumping or burning during the baking process, ruining that delightful sugary crunch.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their crunchy texture; refrigerating them could make them soggy.

How to Serve Candied Cranberries

Candied cranberries are versatile and can be presented in various ways to impress your guests or simply enjoy with your family. Here are some fun ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.

• Orange Zest: Grating a little orange zest over the top enhances the citrus notes already present in the dish, making it even more aromatic and flavorful.

Side Dishes

• Cheese Platter: Pairing these sweet-tart gems with assorted cheeses—like creamy goat cheese or sharp cheddar—creates a delightful contrast of flavors that will impress anyone at your gathering.

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing green salad topped with candied cranberries adds a festive touch and balances rich holiday dishes perfectly. Consider adding walnuts or feta cheese for added texture and flavor.

• Roasted Veggies: Serve candied cranberries alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots. Their sweetness complements the earthy flavors of roasted vegetables beautifully.

• Grain Bowl: Create a delicious grain bowl using quinoa or farro as a base, and top it off with candied cranberries, nuts, and greens for a nutritious yet tasty option during mealtime.

Now you’re all set to create stunning presentations of candied cranberries that will delight everyone around! Enjoy this sweet treat throughout the holiday season!

Make Ahead and Storage

Candied Cranberries are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, which makes them even more enjoyable when shared with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Candied Cranberries in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Ensure they are fully cooled before storing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Candied Cranberries for future use.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, squeezing out excess air.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• These cranberries are typically served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.
• If desired, let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving after freezing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Candied Cranberries!

Can I use different juices in my Candied Cranberries?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for orange juice, feel free to substitute it with pineapple juice or any other fruit juice you prefer. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I make these TikTok Candied Cranberries without cornstarch?

For this recipe, it’s important to choose powdered sugar that does not contain cornstarch. Look for brands that specifically state pure powdered sugar to ensure you get the right consistency.

Can I make Candied Cranberries ahead of time?

Yes! You can easily prepare these a few days in advance. Just store them properly as mentioned above to maintain their texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Candied Cranberries! Their sweet and tart burst is sure to brighten up your gatherings this season. Enjoy sharing them with loved ones – I’m sure they’ll love it just as much as you will. Happy cooking!