The holiday season is here, and with it, the excitement of delicious gatherings filled with festive flavors! I found myself daydreaming about sweet treats to liven up my table when I stumbled upon the trendy TikTok method for making Candied Cranberries, and let me tell you—it’s nothing short of a revelation. Soaked in a mix of bubbly soda and fresh orange juice, these vibrant little gems take mere minutes to prepare. The crunch of powdered sugar on their juicy skin is pure magic!
Picture this: you’re hosting a holiday dinner, and as you set out your beautifully arranged platters, these sparkling cranberries catch everyone’s eye. Not only are they a visual delight, but they also pack a flavorful punch that perfectly balances sweet and tart. Whether served as an elegant snack or as a stunning garnish on desserts, these candied cranberries are bound to be the showstopper of your festive spread. Join me in creating this simple yet stunning treat that promises to elevate your holiday celebrations!
Why are Candied Cranberries a must-try?
Vibrant Visual Appeal: These Candied Cranberries are stunningly bright, adding a festive touch to any holiday gathering.
Quick and Easy: With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this treat in no time.
Perfect Flavor Balance: The sweet crunch pairs perfectly with the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful flavor explosion.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These gems are the perfect addition to a platter, appealing to both kids and adults alike! If you’re looking for other fun treats, check out some of our must-try holiday recipes.
Versatile Snack: Enjoy them on their own or as a garnish on desserts—endless options await with these beauties!
Candied Cranberries Ingredients
For the Soaking Mixture
• Fresh Cranberries – Ensure you use fresh cranberries for that signature ‘pop’ of flavor.
• 7Up (or Prosecco) – This bubbly addition sweetens and enhances flavor; Prosecco gives a festive adult twist.
• Orange Juice (or Pineapple Juice) – Adds a juicy sweetness; pineapple juice is a great alternative for added tropical flair.
For the Coating
• Powdered Sugar (without cornstarch) – This coats the cranberries for a sweet finish; fresh powdered sugar prevents off tastes.
Candied Cranberries are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavors and colors! 🍊✨
How to Make Candied Cranberries
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Soak the Cranberries: In a large bowl, combine the fresh cranberries with 7Up and orange juice. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate and the cranberries to soak up the sweetness.
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Prepare for Coating: After soaking, preheat the oven to 200ºF. Drain the cranberries in a colander to get rid of excess liquid before moving on to the next step.
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Coat Cranberries: Place the cranberries in a large Ziplok bag, add the powdered sugar, and shake gently until they are fully and evenly coated with that sweet, sparkling layer.
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Bake: Spread the coated cranberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 5 minutes—watch carefully to avoid over-drying, as you want them just right!
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the cranberries to cool completely before serving. They can also be used as stunning decorations for your holiday dishes.
Optional: Drizzle with melted white chocolate for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Candied Cranberries
Room Temperature: Store leftover candied cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and crunchier.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate them to extend their shelf life; they will maintain quality for about a week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the candied cranberries in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.
Reheating: If they become sticky, a quick 5-minute bake in a preheated oven at 200ºF can help restore their crunchiness, making them delightful again!
Candied Cranberries Variations
You can easily customize these delightful treats to suit your taste or dietary preferences!
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Flavored Soda: Swap 7Up for your favorite flavored soda like cherry or lemon-lime for a twist that surprises the palate. A fruity twist can elevate the festive vibes even more.
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Juice Variations: Replace orange juice with cranberry or pomegranate juice for a deeper, berry-like flavor that still retains that sweet and tart essence. This can change the entire character of the candied treats.
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Spice it Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the powdered sugar for a warm, holiday spice note that complements the tartness of cranberries beautifully. The aroma alone will beckon friends to the dessert table.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate some lemon or lime zest into the coating mixture for an extra burst of bright flavor that truly enhances the overall snack. Zest not only adds flavor but also a beautiful, fragrant essence.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in some finely chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for an added layer of texture and a delightful crunch that pairs splendidly with the chewy cranberries. It’s a perfect way to elevate the simple into the special.
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Coconut Twist: Coat your cranberries in unsweetened shredded coconut after the sugar for a tropical flair. This adds a chewy layer to the already delicious bite, transporting you straight to a beach paradise.
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Garnish with Chocolate: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cooled cranberries for a decadent finish that turns them into an elegant treat worthy of any holiday platter. A little drizzle goes a long way!
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Heat it Up: For the adventurous, a pinch of cayenne pepper in the powdered sugar can add a surprising kick, elevating the sweet and tart balance into an exciting flavor profile. A little heat can transform your candied cranberries into a sensational snack!
Expert Tips for Candied Cranberries
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Fresh is Best: Use only fresh cranberries; frozen or dried will not yield the same juicy texture and flavor.
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Watch Your Sugar: Avoid powdered sugar with cornstarch to prevent any off flavors in your candied cranberries.
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Oven Temperature Check: Always verify your oven temperature with a thermometer to ensure the cranberries bake evenly without drying out.
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Use a Storage Solution: Store leftover candied cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness; consume within 5 days.
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Experiment with Flavors: Try using flavored sodas or different juices to create unique variations of candied cranberries that surprise your guests!
Make Ahead Options
These Candied Cranberries are ideal for those busy holiday times when you need to plan ahead! You can soak the cranberries in the 7Up and orange juice up to 24 hours in advance, allowing their flavors to intensify beautifully. After soaking, simply drain the cranberries and refrigerate them until you’re ready to coat them in powdered sugar. This can be done up to 3 days before you need to serve them. To keep them fresh, store the coated cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature and finish baking them just before your event. When it’s time to shine, bake them for 5 minutes, cool, and enjoy the deliciously vibrant results that will impress your guests!
What to Serve with Candied Cranberries?
As you plan your holiday feasts, let your imagination run wild with delightful pairings that will elevate your dining experience.
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Creamy Brie Dip: The smooth, rich texture of brie perfectly contrasts the tartness of the cranberries, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Serve it warm for an elegant touch!
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Savory Crostini: Toasted baguette slices topped with creamy goat cheese and a drizzle of honey create a delightful texture that complements the juicy burst of cranberries. It’s a simple yet stunning appetizer.
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Spiced Nuts: A bowl of roasted, spiced nuts adds a crunchy element to your spread, allowing the sweetness of the cranberries to shine even more. Their salty savoriness offers a nice balance to the tartness.
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Holiday Salad: Toss mixed greens with feta cheese, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad that perfectly complements the sweet-tart flavor of the candied cranberries. Add these gems on top for an extra festive flair!
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Sparkling Wine: The crisp, bubbly effervescence of sparkling wine enhances the sweet notes of the cranberries, making for a delightful pairing that’s perfect for toasting during celebrations.
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Chocolate Tart: Rich chocolate and sweet-tart cranberries make for a decadent dessert duo! The tart’s deep flavors beautifully contrast with the bright freshness of the candied cranberries on top.
Let these pairings inspire a festive feast that will leave your guests enchanted and craving more!
Candied Cranberries Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely use fresh cranberries! They provide the signature juicy pop that makes candied cranberries so delightful. Avoid any frozen or dried cranberries, as they won’t give you that beautiful texture and flavor when soaked and candied.
How should I store leftover candied cranberries?
For optimal freshness, store your leftover candied cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them—they will last about a week in the fridge while maintaining their crunch.
Can I freeze candied cranberries?
Yes, you certainly can! To freeze, first spread the candied cranberries in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw in the fridge, and if they become sticky, a quick 5-minute bake at 200ºF will help restore their crunch.
What should I do if my cranberries aren’t crunchy?
If your cranberries turn out sticky instead of crunchy, don’t worry! Simply place the candied cranberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 200ºF for about 5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-drying. This quick fix should help revive their delightful crunch!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! While these candied cranberries are naturally gluten-free, they do contain sugar, so watch out for those with dietary restrictions concerning sugar intake. If you’re serving them to children or guests, double-check for any allergies. It’s always good to inform others, especially if you consider flavor variations or ingredients that might differ.
Can I make variations with different sodas or juices?
The more the merrier! I often experiment with flavored sodas like lemon-lime or even ginger ale for different taste profiles. Similarly, swapping orange juice for pineapple or cranberry juice can create unique and exciting flavors in your candied cranberries, adding vibrant tastes to your table!
Candied Cranberries: Your Ultimate Festive Holiday Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh cranberries with 7Up and orange juice. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 200ºF. Drain the cranberries in a colander to remove excess liquid.
- Place the cranberries in a large Ziplok bag, add powdered sugar, and shake gently until fully coated.
- Spread the cranberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 5 minutes.
- Allow the cranberries to cool completely before serving. Optionally drizzle with melted white chocolate.