Ingredients:
• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
• Zest & juice of 1 orange
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Additional granulated sugar (for coating)
• Clear sparkling sugar (for coating, optional)
Instructions:
1 Prepare the Syrup:
◦ In a medium saucepan, combine the water, 1 cup of granulated sugar, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and the cinnamon stick.
◦ Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the syrup is simmering. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes to infuse the flavors.
◦ Remove from heat and let the syrup cool slightly. Remove the cinnamon stick.
2 Coat the Cranberries:
◦ Add the cranberries to the syrup and gently stir to coat.
◦ Let the cranberries sit in the syrup for about 30 minutes to soak up the flavors. If you have time, you can let them soak longer (up to 2 hours) for a more intense flavor.
3 Coat the Cranberries in Sugar:
◦ After the cranberries have soaked, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the syrup, letting the excess syrup drain off.
◦ Spread the remaining granulated sugar and clear sparkling sugar (if using) in shallow bowls or plates.
◦ Gently roll the cranberries in the sugar mixture, making sure they are fully coated.
4 Dry the Cranberries:
◦ Place the candied cranberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray in a single layer.
◦ Let them dry for about 1-2 hours at room temperature. The sugar coating will harden as they dry.
5 Serve or Store:
◦ Once dried, the Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries are ready to be enjoyed!
◦ You can store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Soak Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours Drying Time: 1-2 hours Total Time: 2.5 hours (depending on soaking time) Servings: 12-16 Calorie Count per Serving: Approximately 70-80 Kcal
These Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries are perfect for snacking, adding to holiday desserts, or gifting in a jar. The citrusy orange and warm vanilla flavors pair perfectly with the tartness of the cranberries!
