Today we’re preparing one of my favorite seasonal items, a treat that simply screams “Winter Warmth” and “Christmas Cheer” – Candied Cranberries.

These are super simple to prepare, super versatile, and addictively delicious. Now, without further introduction, let’s dive right in.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

1) The Orange Rind. This gives the candied cranberries a nice ‘citrus essence.’ How much orange rind you use for this recipe depends on personal preference. I’m using the rind of a whole orange, but you can use as little as a single peel, or even none at all.

Substitution: Orange Extract, about two teaspoons.

Boozy Alternative: Two teaspoons of Grand Marnier will also work beautifully.

2) Cinnamon – Powdered or Sticks? Either one will work fine, and this really is a matter of preference or availability.

What to do with Candied Cranberries

1) Eat them as is. Honestly, these are delicious as is, and this means they serve excellently alongside most holiday appetizer platters, or as a simple ‘sweet treat’ on their own with mulled wine.

2) Topping on Pie. Sprinkled over whipped cream, these can kick up any of your favorite winter pies, whether apple, cherry, pecan, or mincemeat.

3) Parfait. Layer these into your favorite parfait for a nice bit of ‘crunch,’ and some added tart-sweetness.

4) Edible Garnish. These can be used to garnish main courses and dessert spreads alike. Picture a holiday dessert table, with the candied cranberries sprinkled on the dessert trays, or ‘wreathing’ the bottom of your table decorations. The ‘frosted white’ on cranberry red adds a delightful and elegant touch of ‘holiday flare.’ Best of all, this is one piece of garnish that simply tastes delicious.

5) Cocktail Garnish. These cranberries can turn any of your favorite cocktails into a ‘Holiday Cocktail.’ In an Old Fashioned, you can simply plop a few of the cranberries directly into the beverage as a ‘finish.’ With something like a martini or a Manhattan, simply lance a few of the cranberries across a toothpick, and then lay that across the rim of the glass.

Other Great Seasonal Treats

1) Apple Cider Old Fashioned. A seasonal take on the beloved Old Fashioned, combining apple cider, cinnamon, rum , and dried orange slices.

2) Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts. Tender doughnuts infused with apple cider, and swathed in a crisp brown sugar crust.

3) Italian Eggnog White Russian. Whipped coffee, vodka, and eggnog syrup combined to create my favorite seasonal take on the classic White Russian cocktail. Rich, warming, and decadently sweet.

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