Sugared Cranberries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sugared cranberries are a simple yet stunning treat that adds a festive touch to holiday desserts, cocktails, and snack boards. They have the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, with a crisp sugar coating that makes them sparkle like little jewels. With just two ingredients and minimal effort, these sugared cranberries are an easy way to elevate your holiday presentation.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar (for syrup)
• ½ cup water
• ½ to 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the simple syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and ½ cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved. Do not let it boil.
2. Coat the cranberries: Remove the saucepan from heat and gently stir in the cranberries until they are fully coated in the syrup. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the syrup.
3. Drain and dry: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cranberries onto a wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them dry for about 1 hour, or until they are sticky but not wet.
4. Coat with sugar: Place the remaining sugar in a shallow dish. Roll the slightly sticky cranberries in the sugar until fully coated.
5. Set and serve: Let the sugared cranberries sit for another 30 minutes to dry completely before serving. Use them as a garnish for cakes, drinks, or enjoy them as a snack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 cups of sugared cranberries
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Rest time: 1.5 hours
• Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

• Flavored Sugared Cranberries: Add a hint of vanilla or almond extract to the simple syrup for a subtle flavor boost.
• Cinnamon Sugar Cranberries: Mix a pinch of cinnamon with the granulated sugar before rolling the cranberries for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Colored Sugar: Use colored sanding sugar to give the cranberries a more festive look.
• Alcohol-Infused Cranberries: Soak the cranberries in a bit of orange liqueur before coating them for a boozy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store sugared cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Reheating: No reheating is needed. If they lose their sugar coating, simply roll them in fresh sugar again.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries?

No, fresh cranberries work best for this recipe. Frozen cranberries can become too soft and won’t hold the sugar coating properly.

2. Why do my cranberries look wet after rolling them in sugar?

If they are too wet when rolling, the sugar may dissolve. Let them dry longer after the syrup step before rolling in sugar.

3. Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes, you can use alternatives like monk fruit sweetener or erythritol, but the texture may vary.

4. How do I make extra-fine sugared cranberries?

Use superfine sugar for a smoother, more delicate coating instead of regular granulated sugar.

5. What can I use sugared cranberries for?

They are perfect for garnishing cakes, cheesecakes, cocktails, charcuterie boards, and even as a sweet-tart snack.

6. Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them up to 3 days ahead and store them in an airtight container.

7. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Brown sugar will not create the same crystalline coating, so it’s best to stick with granulated sugar.

8. How do I make a larger batch?

Simply double or triple the recipe while keeping the same method.

9. Can I use this method with other fruits?

Yes! This method works well with grapes, blueberries, or even citrus slices.

10. Do sugared cranberries taste really sweet?

They have a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a delightful contrast to richer desserts.

Conclusion

Sugared cranberries are an effortless yet elegant addition to holiday treats. Their crisp, sparkling coating makes them perfect for decorating cakes, drinks, and festive platters. Whether you’re adding them to your holiday table or enjoying them as a snack, this easy recipe is a must-try for the season!

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