Sugared Cranberries: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for the Holidays

why make this recipe

Sugared cranberries are a delightful treat that brings a festive touch to any holiday gathering. Their sweet and tart flavor adds a special zing to desserts, salads, and even cheese platters. Plus, they are simple to make and look beautiful as a garnish or snack. This recipe is perfect for impressing your guests or bringing a little joy to your own holiday celebrations.

how to make Sugared Cranberries

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• Extra sugar for coating

Directions:

Creating amazing sugared cranberries is straightforward. Follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.

2. Add Cranberries: Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the fresh cranberries to the syrup, ensuring they are well-coated.

3. Chill: Cover the saucepan and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This will allow the cranberries to soak up the syrup and become sweet.

4. Drain and Dry: After chilling, drain the cranberries in a colander. Allow them to sit for a few minutes to dry slightly.

5. Coat with Sugar: Place extra granulated sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll the cranberries in the sugar until they are evenly coated and sparkling.

6. Let Set: Spread the sugared cranberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to set.

7. Store: Once set, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

By following these steps, you will have delicious sugared cranberries ready to impress your guests!

how to serve Sugared Cranberries

Sugared cranberries are versatile! You can serve them as a stand-alone snack, add them to a festive cheese platter, or use them as a topping for desserts like cakes and ice cream. They also look lovely sprinkled over salads, adding a pop of color and sweetness.

how to store Sugared Cranberries

To keep your sugared cranberries fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week. If they lose their sparkle, gently roll them in a little more sugar before serving.

tips to make Sugared Cranberries

• Choose Fresh Cranberries: Make sure your cranberries are fresh and firm. Avoid any that are mushy or have blemishes.
• Use Fine Sugar: For a more delicate coating, you can use superfine sugar instead of granulated sugar.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of orange zest to the syrup for added flavor.

variation

You can make a spiced version by adding a cinnamon stick or a few whole cloves to the syrup while it heats up. Remove them before adding the cranberries for a warm, festive flavor.

FAQs

Can you use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen cranberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

Can sugared cranberries be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a few days in advance and store them in the fridge.

Can I use different types of sugar?
Yes! You can use brown sugar or coconut sugar for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the color might change.

Sugared Cranberries

A delightful treat that adds a festive touch with a sweet and tart flavor, perfect for desserts, salads, and cheese platters.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 80

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cranberries Choose fresh and firm cranberries.
• 1 cup granulated sugar For coating, use extra sugar.
• 1 cup water
• Extra sugar for coating Use granulated or superfine sugar for delicate coating.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.
2. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the fresh cranberries to the syrup, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Cover the saucepan and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the cranberries to soak up the syrup.
4. After chilling, drain the cranberries in a colander and allow them to sit for a few minutes to dry slightly.
5. Place extra granulated sugar in a shallow bowl and roll the cranberries in the sugar until they are evenly coated.
6. Spread the sugared cranberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to set.
7. Once set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Notes

Sugared cranberries are versatile; serve them alone, add to cheese platters, or top desserts. If they lose sparkle, roll them in sugar before serving. Add vanilla or orange zest for extra flavor, or use a mixture of sugars for variety.