Description
These sweet-tangy candied cranberries make for a delightful holiday garnish or treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
- Fresh orange zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water and removing any stems or damaged berries. Set them aside to drain well.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved, creating a simple syrup.
- Add the orange juice, lemon juice, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt to the simple syrup. Continue to heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is well combined and just begins to simmer.
- Carefully add the cranberries to the saucepan, ensuring they are all evenly coated with the syrup. Allow the cranberries to simmer in the syrup for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to pop and soften slightly.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cranberries cool in the syrup for an additional 10 minutes, allowing them to absorb more flavor.
- Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cranberries from the syrup and place them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Allow the cranberries to dry for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This will help them develop a slightly tacky texture needed for the final coating.
- Once the cranberries are set, transfer the powdered sugar into a bowl. Toss the cooled cranberries in the powdered sugar until they are evenly coated.
- After coating, place the sugared cranberries back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and let them set for another 15 minutes.
- For a final touch, if desired, sprinkle fresh orange zest over the cranberries for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal. Serve the candied cranberries as a sweet-tangy treat or as a festive holiday garnish.
Notes
- Ensure cranberries are fresh and firm for the best results.
- The sweet coating pairs well with the natural tartness of the cranberries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg