Candied Cranberries: A Sweet and Festive Treat

Looking to add a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to your holiday spread? Look no further than these delightful Sugared Cranberries! These gems are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The glistening, crystalline coating of sugar gives them a magical sparkle that elevates any dish they adorn.

Creating these Sugared Cranberries is a joyous experience that yields impressive results. The secret lies in the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a delightful addition to desserts or a standalone snack. Fresh cranberries, a simple syrup, and a dusting of sugar are all you need to create these festive beauties.

Whether you sprinkle them on cakes, mix them into cocktails, or enjoy them straight out of the bowl, these Sugared Cranberries are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The process is simple, the outcome is stunning, and the taste is simply irresistible. Let’s dive into this recipe and bring some holiday magic to your table!

Quick Benefits

• Adds a touch of elegance and festivity to any holiday spread
• Versatile – can be used to enhance desserts, cocktails, or enjoyed as a snack
• Fresh cranberries and a perfect sugar syrup coating create a stunning crystalline appearance
• Quick and easy to make, taking only about 30 minutes plus drying time

Why You’ll Love This Candied Cranberries: A Sweet and Festive Treat Recipe

• Impressive Appearance: The sparkly, jewel-like appearance of these sugared cranberries will instantly elevate any dish or cocktail, making them perfect for holiday entertaining.
• Versatile: These cranberries are so versatile, adding a touch of elegance to desserts, cocktails, or simply enjoyed as a sweet-tart snack.
• Perfect Sweet-Tart Balance: The combination of the sweet sugar coating with the tartness of the cranberries creates a flavor profile that is sure to please everyone.
• Easy to Make: With just three simple ingredients and some patience for drying time, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results.
• Holiday Favorite: These sugared cranberries are perfect for Christmas desserts or any holiday spread, adding a festive and magical touch that everyone will admire.

Ingredients for Candied Cranberries: A Sweet and Festive Treat

• 1/2 cup water.
• 2 cups fresh cranberries.
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided.

Pro Tips for Candied Cranberries: A Sweet and Festive Treat

Pro Tip #1: To achieve the perfect crystalline coating on your sugared cranberries, make sure to use fine granulated sugar for the best results. This type of sugar adheres well to the berries, creating that sparkling jewel-like effect that makes them so visually appealing.

Pro Tip #2: Timing and temperature are crucial when making sugared cranberries. Be attentive when preparing the sugar syrup coating to ensure it reaches the right consistency, and allow the berries to dry properly to achieve that beautiful crystallization. Using fresh cranberries is also key to getting the best outcome.

Pro Tip #3: While these sugared cranberries are a great addition to holiday desserts and cocktails, they are best enjoyed the day they are made to fully appreciate their texture and flavor. Whether used as a garnish or enjoyed on their own as a sweet-tart treat, these cranberries are sure to impress your guests with their stunning appearance and taste.

How to Make Candied Cranberries: A Sweet and Festive Treat

Step 1: Step 01

In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine 1/2 cup sugar and water. Heat until sugar dissolves, then bring to a gentle boil and remove from heat.

Step 2: Step 02

Stir cranberries into hot syrup and let sit for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Step 03

Strain cranberries from syrup and spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Step 04

Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar over the cranberries and gently mix to coat.

Step 5: Step 05

Place on a wire rack and allow to dry for 1 hour.

Storage Tips

To store the finished sugared cranberries, it is best to keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating them as the moisture in the fridge can cause the sugar coating to become sticky and lose its sparkle. If stored properly in a cool, dry place, the sugared cranberries can last for up to 2 days without losing their crispness and appearance.

If you need to store the sugared cranberries for a longer period, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. When you’re ready to use them, allow the cranberries to come to room temperature before serving. This method can extend the storage time for up to a month, ensuring you can enjoy these festive treats beyond the initial day of making them.

Remember that sugared cranberries are best enjoyed fresh when the sugar coating is at its most crystallized and the berries are at their peak taste and texture. Whether as a decoration for desserts, a garnish for cocktails, or a delightful snack, these sugared cranberries will bring a touch of elegance and sweetness to any occasion.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different flavor twist, you can try using other types of sugar such as powdered sugar or brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. Powdered sugar will give the cranberries a smoother coating, while brown sugar will add a hint of caramel flavor.

If fresh cranberries are not available, you can substitute with other fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Just be aware that different berries may require slightly different cooking times due to variations in size and juiciness.

If you want to add an extra dimension of flavor, consider adding a splash of citrus juice or zest to the sugar syrup for a tangy kick. Lemon, lime, or orange zest can complement the sweet-tart cranberries beautifully and elevate the overall taste of the sugared berries.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning holiday dessert presentation, arrange a mound of these sugared cranberries on top of a freshly baked cheesecake. The sparkling jewels will add a festive touch and a burst of sweet-tart flavor with every bite. The contrast of textures between the creamy cheesecake and the crystallized cranberries creates a mouthwatering experience that will impress all your guests.

To elevate your holiday cocktail game, skewer a few sugared cranberries on fancy toothpicks and use them as garnishes for champagne flutes or festive mocktails. As your guests sip their drinks, the sugared cranberries will infuse a subtle sweetness and a pop of color, making every sip feel extra special. Plus, the visual appeal of these glistening cranberry skewers will make your drinks Instagram-worthy!

FAQs for Candied Cranberries: A Sweet and Festive Treat

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?

No, fresh cranberries are recommended for this recipe to achieve the best results in terms of taste and appearance.

How long do the sugared cranberries need to dry after coating them?

It is recommended to allow the sugared cranberries to dry for at least 1-2 hours to ensure the crystalline coating sets perfectly.

Can I store the sugared cranberries for later use?

While they are best enjoyed the day they are made, you can store the sugared cranberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, note that the sugar coating may become less sparkly over time.

What type of sugar works best for coating the cranberries?

Using fine granulated sugar is recommended for coating the cranberries as it helps achieve that perfect crystalline texture and appearance.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed making these delightful Sugared Cranberries as much as I did! The way they glimmer and shine adds a touch of magic to any festive occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests with a dazzling dessert or simply want to treat yourself to a sweet-tart snack, these cranberries are sure to please.

Remember, the key to achieving that perfect crystalline coating is in the timing and temperature, so be sure to follow the recipe closely for best results. Fresh cranberries are a must for that burst of flavor and texture that truly elevates this treat.

So go ahead, sprinkle these Sugared Cranberries on your favorite holiday cakes, mix them into cocktails, or enjoy them straight out of the bowl. However you choose to savor them, these sugared cranberries are a delightful addition to your holiday spread. Cheers to festive treats that sparkle and shine!