Cranberries have a unique charm—they’re tart, vibrant, and full of holiday spirit. While many of us enjoy them in sauces or baked goods, there’s a delightful way to elevate cranberries into a treat that’s sweet, tangy, and beautifully festive: Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries. This recipe transforms fresh cranberries into glossy, sugary gems with a hint of citrus and warm vanilla. They’re perfect for snacking, decorating desserts, or gifting in little jars during the holidays.
I first discovered candied cranberries at a winter potluck years ago, and I was instantly hooked. Their bright red hue and delicate sweetness made any dessert or cheese platter look stunning. What’s even better is how simple they are to make at home—the process requires patience, but the results are more than worth it. This recipe combines the natural tartness of cranberries with the citrusy brightness of orange, the comforting warmth of vanilla, and a cinnamon kick, creating a treat that’s irresistible.
Recipe Overview
Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries are fresh cranberries soaked in a spiced orange and vanilla syrup, then coated in sugar to form a crisp, candy-like shell. They’re tart, sweet, and aromatic, perfect for adding color and flavor to holiday dishes or enjoying as a standalone treat.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- 1 12-ounce bag of cranberries
- 1.75 cups water
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- Zest and juice of 1 orange (~½ cup fresh juice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 whole cinnamon stick
- 1.5–2 cups white sugar, for coating
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cranberries
Begin by washing the cranberries thoroughly. Remove any stems or blemished berries to ensure a uniform, high-quality batch. Place the cleaned cranberries in a heat-safe bowl, ready for the syrup soak.
2. Make the Orange Vanilla Syrup
In a 2-quart stockpot, combine water, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and the cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the syrup thickens slightly. This usually takes about 10–15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly—this ensures the cranberries aren’t exposed to overly hot syrup, which could burst them prematurely.
3. Soak the Cranberries
Pour the warm syrup over the cranberries, making sure all the berries are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate overnight. This step allows the cranberries to absorb the flavors of orange, vanilla, and cinnamon, resulting in a perfectly balanced sweet-tart taste.
4. Drain and Prep for Sugar Coating
The next day, set a colander over a large bowl and pour the cranberries into it to drain the excess syrup. Let them sit until they become slightly tacky—this helps the sugar stick better.
5. Coat the Cranberries in Sugar
Spread white sugar on a sheet pan. Roll half of the cranberries in the sugar until fully coated, then use the remaining sugar for the second half. Ensure each cranberry is evenly coated with sugar for a crisp outer layer.
6. Dry the Candied Cranberries
Spread the sugared cranberries in a single layer on the sheet pan. Allow them to dry until a firm, crisp sugar shell forms. This can take a few hours at room temperature, depending on humidity. Once dry, the candied cranberries are ready to enjoy!
Tip: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Flavor Twists: Experiment by adding a splash of grand marnier or cointreau to the syrup for a subtle orange liqueur flavor. You can also sprinkle in a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg for warmth.
- Sugar Alternatives: If you prefer a slightly less sweet version, use turbinado sugar or coconut sugar for coating—it adds texture and a caramel-like flavor.
- Vegan-Friendly: All ingredients are naturally vegan, but ensure your sugar is labeled vegan if you’re strict, as some white sugars are processed with bone char.
- Make Ahead: Candied cranberries can be made up to one week in advance and stored in an airtight container. They actually improve in flavor as they sit, allowing the syrup to infuse the berries more deeply.
- Uses: Beyond snacking, these cranberries are stunning on cheeseboards, cupcake toppers, or holiday cakes. They also make a beautiful garnish for cocktails and mocktails.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Storage: Keep the candied cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for 2–3 weeks. Avoid storing them in syrup unless you plan to use it as a glaze or topping.
- Serving: Use them as a vibrant addition to baked goods, like muffins or scones, or as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream. They also pair wonderfully with cheeses, nuts, and chocolate for festive platters.
Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries are an elegant, flavorful treat that’s perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion. They’re a brilliant way to transform tart, fresh cranberries into glossy, sweet, and aromatic jewels. With layers of citrus, vanilla, and a touch of cinnamon, they’re a feast for the eyes and the palate. Whether you’re using them to decorate desserts, jazz up your cheese board, or gifting in pretty jars, these candied cranberries are sure to impress.
The process may require a little patience, but the results are irresistible—sweet, tangy, and beautifully festive. Once you try them, they’ll become a regular addition to your holiday repertoire.
FAQs
1. How long do candied cranberries last?
Stored in an airtight container, they last up to 1 week at room temperature or 2–3 weeks refrigerated.
2. Can I make them without orange juice?
Yes, you can substitute with lemon juice for a different citrus flavor, though orange gives a classic sweet-tart balance.
3. Are candied cranberries vegan?
Yes, as long as the sugar used is vegan-friendly.
4. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them before using to avoid extra water in the syrup.
5. Can I skip the cinnamon stick?
Absolutely! The cranberries will still be delicious, though the cinnamon adds warmth and depth.
Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries are sweet, tart, and aromatic. Perfect for holiday desserts, snacking, or gifting. Easy to make and beautifully festive!