Orange Vanilla Candied Cranberries
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.