Sugared cranberries are like little jewels of happiness that burst with sweetness and a hint of tartness. Imagine biting into one, feeling that delightful crunch followed by a wave of flavor that dances on your palate. These beauties not only taste amazing but also add a festive flair to any holiday table.
Every time I make sugared cranberries, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter fills the air, and the sweet aroma of treats surrounds us. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a holiday party, these cranberries shine as a delightful treat that everyone loves.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Sugared cranberries are incredibly easy to make and impress guests with their beautiful appearance.
- The sweet-tart flavor profile makes them perfect for snacking or decorating desserts.
- Their vibrant color brightens up any dish, making them visually stunning on your holiday table.
- Plus, they pair wonderfully with both savory and sweet dishes for versatile use.
One time, I made sugared cranberries for a potluck and they were gone before I could say “cranberry sauce.” Everyone raved about their delightful crunch and sweetness!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cranberries: Look for bright red berries without blemishes; they should feel firm to the touch.
Sugar: Use granulated sugar for coating; it enhances the sweetness and creates that lovely sugary crust.
Water: Just regular tap water works fine; it helps dissolve the sugar during the soaking process.
Optional Flavorings: Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor twist.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Sugared Cranberries
Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse your fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or damaged berries. You want only the best berries for this treat.
Create the Simple Syrup: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water and half of the sugar until dissolved. Stir until it looks like liquid sunshine!
Soak the Cranberries: Add your cleaned cranberries to the syrup mixture, ensuring all berries are coated. Let them soak for at least one hour; this step is crucial for maximum flavor infusion.
Coat with Sugar: After soaking, drain excess syrup from the cranberries and roll them in remaining sugar until coated evenly. This creates that irresistible sugary sparkle.
Drying Time: Spread your sugared cranberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them dry for about 30 minutes at room temperature; this allows the sugar coating to harden perfectly.
Serve and Enjoy!: These beauties can be served as-is or used as decorations on cakes or cocktails. Enjoy the joyous crunch with every bite!
With these easy steps, you’ll have sugared cranberries ready to dazzle your friends and family. Trust me; they’ll be begging you for seconds!
You Must Know
- Sugared cranberries are a delightful addition to holiday dishes, adding a sweet-tart zing.
- They’re easy to make and can elevate your dessert table’s visuals and flavors.
- Plus, they make for a fun homemade gift that everyone will love.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by rinsing cranberries and simmering them in sugar water before coating with sugar. This ensures they’re perfectly sweet without losing their tart kick.
Add Your Touch
Try adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist. Experiment with flavored sugars like vanilla or cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store your sugared cranberries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. No reheating is needed; just enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cranberries for maximum flavor; frozen ones may lead to mushy results.
- Always taste your sugar syrup before coating; adjust sweetness as desired.
- Consider using a food-safe glitter to make them extra festive and sparkly.
I remember the first time I made sugared cranberries for my family’s holiday gathering. They were gone faster than I could say “sugar rush,” and everyone wanted the recipe!
FAQ
What are sugared cranberries used for?
Sugared cranberries are perfect for garnishing desserts, salads, or even cocktails during festive occasions.
How long do sugared cranberries last?
When stored properly, sugared cranberries can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
While possible, frozen cranberries can become mushy; fresh is best for texture and flavor.
Sugared Cranberries
Sugared cranberries are a delightful holiday treat that combines a sweet crunch with a hint of tartness. These vibrant, jewel-like berries not only taste fantastic but also elevate any festive table setting. Perfect for snacking or as a stunning garnish for desserts and cocktails, sugared cranberries are easy to make and sure to impress your guests. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this charming holiday staple that’s sure to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: N/A
- Cuisine: N/A
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or damaged berries.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of water and ½ cup of sugar until dissolved.
- Add the cleaned cranberries to the syrup mixture and let soak for at least one hour.
- Drain excess syrup and roll cranberries in the remaining ½ cup of sugar until evenly coated.
- Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow to dry for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10 cranberries (about 35g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added flavor, experiment with citrus zest or flavored sugars. Store sugared cranberries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
