If you’ve been dreaming of a festive treat that bursts with zingy sweetness and a sparkle of effervescence, then you absolutely must try this Candied Cranberries with 7Up and Orange Juice Recipe! These vibrant cranberries soak up the citrusy brightness and bubbly personality of 7Up and orange juice, then transform into glossy, sugary gems that add a stunning pop of flavor and color to any holiday table or special occasion spread. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll reach for these candied cranberries again and again as both an eye-catching garnish and a tantalizing bite all on their own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here is simple yet brilliantly purposeful, coming together to make this recipe shine with freshness, sweetness, and just the right hint of tartness. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible texture and balancing the vibrant flavors.
- Fresh cranberries: The star of the show, providing that delicious tang and gorgeous ruby-red color.
- 7Up (or Prosecco): Adds bubbly sweetness and helps mellow the cranberries’ natural tartness for a perfectly balanced flavor.
- Orange juice (or pineapple juice): Brings bright citrus notes that enhance the cranberries’ freshness while deepening the flavor profile.
- Powdered sugar (without cornstarch): Coats the cranberries in a delicate sugary shell; using starch-free or tapioca starch versions ensures ideal texture and shine.
How to Make Candied Cranberries with 7Up and Orange Juice Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Cranberries
Start by combining your fresh cranberries with 7Up and orange juice in a large bowl. Cover this vibrant mix and tuck it into the fridge for 24 hours. This soaking time is crucial—it allows the juice to seep through the skins, softening the cranberries and infusing them with a bright, bubbly sweetness that’s truly magical.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven Low and Slow
When your cranberries have bathed in citrus and fizz, preheat your oven to a gentle 200ºF. This low temperature is key to drying the cranberries just enough to form that coveted candied texture without turning them dry or hard.
Step 3: Sugar-Coat the Cranberries
Drain the soaked cranberries really well using a colander, then transfer them into a large Ziploc bag. Add your powdered sugar and give the bag a really good shake, making sure every single cranberry is lovingly coated in a sparkling sugar layer. This step is where the magic of that glossy, candy-like finish begins.
Step 4: Spread and Shake Off Excess
Lay the sugar-dusted cranberries out on a parchment-lined baking tray in a single layer for even baking. If you notice some extra sugar piling up, gently shake the tray or pass the cranberries through a colander to remove any excess, keeping that coating crisp and perfect.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cranberries for just 5 minutes in your carefully warmed oven. Watch closely because baking too long or at a higher temperature can dry these beauties out. Using an oven thermometer is a genius move to maintain the ideal warmth and ensure they turn out just right.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your candied cranberries cool completely. This resting time lets them firm up into tender, sugary jewels. Then, gobble them up as desired, or present them elegantly in a serving dish to wow your guests!
How to Serve Candied Cranberries with 7Up and Orange Juice Recipe
Garnishes
These candied cranberries make dazzling garnishes for holiday cocktails, champagne flutes, or even your favorite winter salads. Their shimmer and tang bring a lively finish to drinks and dishes alike.
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet-tart gems alongside savory roast poultry, pork, or even a creamy brie cheese board. They offer a refreshing contrast that lifts the flavors and adds a festive, gourmet touch to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try skewering the cranberries on cocktail sticks alongside fresh herbs or small cheeses for an elegant appetizer. Or sprinkle them generously on top of winter desserts like cheesecakes and panna cotta for that extra wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your candied cranberries fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll maintain their beautiful texture and flavor for up to 3 days, ready to brighten your table whenever you like.
Freezing
These delicious cranberries freeze well if you want to prepare them in advance. Place them in a single layer on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag to preserve for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving to enjoy that perfect, candied bite.
Reheating
If you want to gently warm the cranberries, pop them in a low oven (around 200ºF) for a few minutes or briefly microwave them in short bursts. This refreshes their glossy appearance and tender texture without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use sparkling water instead of 7Up in the Candied Cranberries with 7Up and Orange Juice Recipe?
You can, but 7Up adds sweetness and flavor beyond just the bubbles, so using sparkling water may result in tarter cranberries. To balance that, you might want to add a touch more sugar or honey to the soaking liquid.
What if I can’t find powdered sugar without cornstarch?
Look for powdered sugar labeled as starch-free or one made with tapioca starch instead. Cornstarch can make the cranberries slightly gritty, so using starch-free sugar will give you that smooth, sparkling finish you want.
Can I substitute orange juice with other juices?
Absolutely! Pineapple juice works wonderfully and adds a tropical hint, while even cranberry juice blends can intensify the berry flavor. Feel free to experiment to find your perfect twist on this Candied Cranberries with 7Up and Orange Juice Recipe.
How long do I need to soak the cranberries?
Make sure to soak them for a full 24 hours. This step is essential for allowing the juices and flavors to penetrate the cranberry skins deeply, turning them tender and perfectly sweetened.
Are these candied cranberries good for baking or just as a garnish?
While they shine as garnishes and snacks, you can also fold them into desserts like cakes and muffins or use them as a bright topping for tarts. They add delightful texture and festive flavor wherever you decide to add them.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Candied Cranberries with 7Up and Orange Juice Recipe enough if you want to elevate your holiday dishes with something truly special. The balance of sweetness, tartness, and that charming sparkle makes these cranberries a standout delight to prepare and serve. Give this recipe a go—you’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple ingredients transforms into show-stopping candied jewels that everyone will rave about!
Print
Candied Cranberries with 7Up and Orange Juice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 24 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 6.5 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully sweet and tangy candied cranberries soaked in citrus and soda, then coated in powdered sugar and gently baked for a crystalized finish. Perfect as a festive garnish or a sweet treat for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 12-ounce bag fresh cranberries
- 2 cups 7Up (or Prosecco)
- 1 cup orange juice (or pineapple juice)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (without cornstarch, use freshly ground sugar or powdered sugar with tapioca starch)
Instructions
- Soak the Cranberries: Combine the cranberries, 7Up, and orange juice in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the juices to fully penetrate the cranberry skins, enhancing flavor and moisture.
- Preheat Oven: After soaking, preheat the oven to 200ºF to prepare for gentle baking.
- Coat with Sugar: Drain the cranberries in a colander and transfer them to a large Ziploc bag. Add the powdered sugar and shake well until all cranberries are evenly coated with sugar.
- Prepare for Baking: Spread the sugar-coated cranberries onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. If excess sugar remains, gently shake the cranberries in a colander to remove it.
- Bake: Bake the cranberries for 5 minutes in the preheated oven. Baking too long or at a temperature above 200ºF can cause the cranberries to dry out, so monitor carefully.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the candied cranberries to cool, then transfer to a serving dish or use as a garnish or sweet accompaniment as desired.
Notes
- Use powdered sugar without cornstarch to avoid any unpleasant texture; freshly ground sugar or powdered sugar with tapioca starch works best.
- Soaking the cranberries for the full 24 hours is critical for flavor absorption and moisture.
- Maintain the oven temperature at or below 200ºF to ensure the cranberries do not dry out during baking.
- These candied cranberries are great garnishes for desserts, cocktails, or holiday dishes.
