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
Scale
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.
