If you love cranberries with a delightful twist, you are in for a treat with this Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries Recipe. Bursting with bright citrus notes, the warmth of vanilla, and a subtle touch of cinnamon, these candied cranberries transform the tart berries into jewel-like treats that sparkle with sweetness. Perfect for holiday gatherings, festive decorating, or simply snacking on, this recipe brings together vibrant flavors and an irresistible texture that will quickly become your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role: from the fresh cranberries offering that signature tangy bite, to the orange zest and juice which brighten the entire dish, to vanilla that adds creamy warmth, and cinnamon warming things up just enough.
- 2 cups fresh cranberries: Make sure they’re firm and vibrant for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 cup water: The base for the syrup, helping meld all flavors together smoothly.
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided: Half dissolves into the syrup, while the rest is for coating, creating that irresistible crunch.
- Zest and juice of 1 orange: Adds fresh citrus brightness that perfectly complements the tart berries.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, sweet aroma that pairs beautifully with the orange.
- 1 cinnamon stick: Adds a subtle spice note without overpowering the candied treat.
- Additional granulated sugar for coating: For that classic sugary sparkle and texture.
- Clear sparkling sugar (optional): Use for an extra festive gleam on your cranberries.
How to Make Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Citrus-Vanilla Syrup
Start by combining water, half of the granulated sugar, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and the cinnamon stick in a medium saucepan. Gently heat over medium heat, stirring now and then until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to simmer. This step unlocks the layers of flavor you will soon enjoy.
Step 2: Develop the Flavor Base
Let the syrup simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the orange, vanilla, and cinnamon flavors to meld. This simmering process is where the magic begins, transforming simple ingredients into a luscious syrup.
Step 3: Cool and Infuse
Take the saucepan off the heat and carefully remove the cinnamon stick to prevent it from overpowering the syrup. Let the mixture cool just enough so it’s warm but safe to handle before adding the cranberries.
Step 4: Soak the Cranberries
Add the fresh cranberries directly into the warm syrup. Stir gently to coat every berry in the fragrant liquid. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes — or up to 2 hours if you want a deeper infusion of flavor. This soaking is what transforms tart berries into something truly special.
Step 5: Coat the Cranberries in Sugar
Use a slotted spoon to lift the cranberries out of the syrup, letting any excess drip back into the pan. On a shallow plate, combine the remaining granulated sugar with optional clear sparkling sugar for extra shimmer. Roll each cranberry in this sugar mixture until fully coated.
Step 6: Dry the Candied Cranberries
Lay the sugared berries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them rest at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours so the sugar coating can set into a delightful crunchy shell.
Step 7: Store and Enjoy
Once fully dried, transfer your Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries into an airtight container. They keep beautifully for up to one week at room temperature, ready to brighten up your next dish or celebration.
How to Serve Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries Recipe
Garnishes
These glistening candied cranberries are an elegant garnish for cocktails, holiday punches, or even sparkling wine. Sprinkle a few atop cheeseboards or use them to crown desserts like vanilla panna cotta or chocolate mousse to add a pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
Add these candied cranberries on the side of roasted poultry or pork for a sophisticated touch. Their sweet and tangy contrast beautifully complements savory dishes and elevates your holiday table with their festive flair.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by skewering the Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries in alternating colors with marshmallows or chunks of citrus fruits for party platters. You can also mix them into holiday salads or sprinkle over yogurt and oatmeal to brighten your breakfast with seasonal cheer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your candied cranberries have dried, keeping them in an airtight container at room temperature is best to maintain their crunchy texture. They last up to a week and remain a festive treat whenever you want a little sweet bite.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead well before a special occasion, freezing is an option. Spread the sugared berries on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw them gently at room temperature before serving to keep their texture intact.
Reheating
These candied cranberries are best enjoyed as-is, without reheating. If necessary, bringing them to room temperature after freezing is sufficient — heating can dissolve the sugar coating, which is half the fun of this recipe.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
While fresh cranberries yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if fresh aren’t available. Just be aware they might release more liquid, so pat them dry before soaking in syrup to maintain the right consistency.
Is the cinnamon stick necessary?
The cinnamon stick adds a subtle warmth that complements the vanilla and orange beautifully, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to omit it. The recipe will still be delicious without it.
How long can I store these candied cranberries?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these candied cranberries will keep perfectly for up to one week. Beyond that, they might lose their crunchy sugar coating.
Can I make a larger batch?
Absolutely! This Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries Recipe scales up wonderfully. Just double or triple the ingredients and follow the same steps, using a larger saucepan as needed.
What if I don’t have sparkling sugar?
Not a problem at all. The regular granulated sugar alone provides a beautiful sparkle and the essential crunch. The clear sparkling sugar is just an optional touch for extra shine.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries Recipe is a brilliant and joyful way to celebrate the flavors of the season year-round. Its simplicity and elegance make it a standout addition to any festive table or everyday snack time. Once you try it, these little bursts of sweetness will become your go-to treat to brighten any moment.
Print
Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dessert Garnish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries are a delightful sweet and tangy treat perfect for holiday garnishes, festive cocktails, or enjoying on their own. Fresh cranberries are gently simmered in a fragrant syrup infused with orange zest, juice, vanilla, and cinnamon, then rolled in sugar for a sparkling finish.
Ingredients
Syrup and Cranberries
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cinnamon stick
Coating
- Additional granulated sugar for coating
- Clear sparkling sugar (optional, for extra sparkle)
Instructions
- Prepare the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine water, 1 cup of granulated sugar, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and the cinnamon stick. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves fully and the syrup comes to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Cool and Remove Cinnamon Stick: Remove the saucepan from heat and discard the cinnamon stick. Let the syrup cool slightly but remain warm enough to soak the cranberries.
- Soak the Cranberries: Add the fresh cranberries to the warm syrup and gently stir to coat them thoroughly. Allow the cranberries to soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a richer, more infused flavor.
- Drain Cranberries: Using a slotted spoon, remove the cranberries from the syrup and let excess syrup drain off. This ensures the coating adheres properly.
- Prepare Sugar Coating: Spread the additional granulated sugar and optional clear sparkling sugar on a shallow plate, mixing them together evenly.
- Coat Cranberries: Roll the drained cranberries in the sugar mixture until they are fully coated with a sparkling layer.
- Dry the Candied Cranberries: Arrange the sugar-coated cranberries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them dry at room temperature for 1-2 hours so the sugar sets beautifully.
- Storage: Once dry, transfer the candied cranberries to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 1 week. Enjoy as decorations or as a sweet garnish!
Notes
- For an extra festive look, use sparkling sugar crystals to coat the cranberries for added shimmer.
- If you want a stronger orange flavor, use the zest of an additional orange or add a bit more juice.
- Candied cranberries make a beautiful garnish for desserts, cocktails, or cheese boards.
- Be gentle when coating the cranberries to avoid bursting them.
- Store candied cranberries in a cool, dry place away from moisture to maintain their crisp sugar coating.
