Description
Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries are a delightful and festive treat perfect for holiday desserts or cheese boards. Fresh cranberries are soaked in a fragrant syrup infused with orange zest and vanilla, then coated with sugar for a sweet and tangy bite. This simple stovetop recipe yields vibrant, glossy candied cranberries with a delicious citrus-vanilla twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the simple syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves, forming a clear simple syrup.
- Add flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the orange zest and pure vanilla extract thoroughly. Allow the syrup to cool for 5 to 10 minutes, ensuring it is warm but no longer hot to the touch.
- Soak the cranberries: Add the fresh cranberries to the warm syrup and gently stir to coat them evenly. Let the cranberries soak for at least 1 hour; for best results, soak overnight to let flavors fully develop.
- Dry the cranberries: Using a slotted spoon, remove the cranberries from the syrup and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let them dry until their surface is sticky but not wet, approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
- Coat with sugar: Roll the sticky cranberries in additional granulated sugar until evenly coated, giving them a sparkling, candied finish.
- Final drying and storage: Allow the sugared cranberries to dry completely before serving or storing. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Notes
- These candied cranberries make a festive garnish for holiday desserts or cheese boards.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
