The sparkling Sugared Cranberries are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. Their tangy, juicy centers are perfectly balanced by the sweet, frosty sugar coating, creating a treat that is as delicious as it is visually stunning.
These versatile candied cranberries are not only a tasty snack but also a stunning garnish for desserts and main dishes. Whether topping a festive cake or decorating a holiday roast, they bring an elegant and festive touch to your table. Easy to make and fun to share, they’re a holiday tradition you’ll cherish.
Full Recipe:
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided
- 3 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed and dried
Directions:
- Combine water and 1/2 cup of sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a low simmer and cook for 3 minutes, ensuring the sugar fully dissolves into a syrup.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cranberries, ensuring they are fully coated in the syrup. Let sit for 1 minute.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries to a parchment-lined baking sheet or metal rack, ensuring they are spread out to dry. Let them dry for 1 hour.
- Once dry, roll the cranberries in the remaining 1 cup of sugar in batches, ensuring an even coating.
- Store sugared cranberries at room temperature for up to 2 days in a cool, dry place.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Resting Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 108 per serving | Servings: 12 (makes about 3 cups)
What Are Sugared Cranberries?
Sugared cranberries, also known as candied cranberries, are a simple yet striking holiday treat made by coating fresh cranberries in a sugar syrup and rolling them in granulated sugar. The result is a sparkling, frosty look that makes them visually appealing for holiday tables and desserts. Their tart flavor is mellowed by the sweet sugar coating, creating a delightful balance that is both refreshing and indulgent. These versatile little gems are often used as a garnish on desserts like cakes, pies, and pastries or as an edible decoration for holiday roasts and cheese boards. Sugared cranberries are a true testament to how a few simple ingredients can create a show-stopping addition to your culinary repertoire.
Why Sugared Cranberries Are Perfect for the Holidays
Sugared cranberries exude festivity. Their frosty appearance and bright red hue make them a quintessential holiday garnish. They can instantly elevate any dish, adding a touch of elegance and sparkle to your table. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these cranberries provide a unique flavor profile that complements both sweet and savory dishes, making them a versatile ingredient in holiday cooking. Additionally, sugared cranberries are easy to make, requiring minimal effort and just a few ingredients. This makes them a great last-minute addition to your holiday preparations, whether you need to embellish a dessert or add a decorative flair to your main course.
Tips for Making Perfect Sugared Cranberries
Making sugared cranberries is straightforward, but there are some tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time: Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are firm and tart, making them ideal for this recipe. Avoid using frozen cranberries, as their thawed texture is too soft to hold the sugar coating effectively. Dry the Cranberries Thoroughly: Before coating them in sugar syrup, make sure the cranberries are completely dry. Excess water can dilute the syrup and prevent proper coating. Be Gentle with the Syrup: When heating the sugar and water, keep the temperature low to prevent the syrup from caramelizing or burning. A gentle simmer is all you need. Work in Batches: Rolling the cranberries in sugar works best in small batches to ensure even coating. Let Them Dry Properly: Allowing the cranberries to dry on a baking sheet or rack is crucial for setting the sugar coating. This step ensures the cranberries stay crisp and frosty-looking.
Creative Uses for Sugared Cranberries
Sugared cranberries are more than just a garnish. They can be used in a variety of creative ways to enhance your holiday dishes: As a Snack: Enjoy them on their own as a sweet and tangy holiday treat. On Desserts: Use sugared cranberries to top cakes, cupcakes, pies, or tarts for a festive touch. In Drinks: Add them as a garnish for cocktails, mocktails, or sparkling water to make your beverages extra special. On Cheese Boards: Pair them with creamy cheeses and nuts for a colorful addition to your cheese board. As Table Décor: Scatter them around centerpieces or place them on plates as edible table decorations.
The Science Behind Sugaring Cranberries
The process of making sugared cranberries involves a bit of culinary science. The simple syrup acts as an adhesive, binding the sugar granules to the cranberries. When the cranberries are rolled in sugar, the syrup hardens as it cools, creating a frosted, crystal-like appearance. This process also helps to preserve the cranberries, keeping them fresh for a couple of days. The sugar coating not only provides visual appeal but also balances the tartness of the cranberries. This makes them palatable even for those who may find raw cranberries too sour to enjoy on their own.
Storing Sugared Cranberries
Sugared cranberries are best stored at room temperature in a cool, dry environment. They can last up to two days if properly stored. Avoid refrigerating them, as the moisture can cause the sugar coating to dissolve, diminishing their frosty appearance. If the sugar coating starts to look moist or sticky, you can re-roll the cranberries in a bit of granulated sugar to freshen them up.
Pro Tips for Customizing Sugared Cranberries
One of the best things about sugared cranberries is their adaptability. Here are a few ways to customize them: Change the Sugar: For a different texture or flavor, try using coarse sugar or sanding sugar instead of granulated sugar. Infused Syrups: Add a splash of vanilla extract, cinnamon, or citrus zest to the syrup for an aromatic twist. Color Variations: Experiment with natural food coloring in the syrup to create colored sugared cranberries that match your holiday theme.
A Versatile Garnish for Sweet and Savory Dishes
Sugared cranberries are unique in their ability to complement both sweet and savory dishes. On sweet treats, they add a touch of elegance and an extra layer of flavor. On savory dishes, such as roasted meats or salads, their tart sweetness provides a delightful contrast. Whether you’re topping a traditional pumpkin pie or decorating a glazed ham, sugared cranberries are a simple yet impactful way to enhance your presentation.
The Joy of Homemade Sugared Cranberries
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making sugared cranberries at home. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also offer endless opportunities for creativity. From personalizing the recipe to finding unique ways to use them, sugared cranberries allow you to put a personal touch on your holiday dishes. Homemade sugared cranberries are also a thoughtful gift for friends and family. Pack them in decorative jars or bags, and you’ll have a charming, edible gift that’s sure to impress.
Conclusion
Sugared cranberries are a quintessential holiday recipe that combines simplicity, beauty, and versatility. Their frosty appearance and tangy-sweet flavor make them a standout addition to any festive occasion. Whether you’re using them as a garnish, snack, or decorative element, sugared cranberries bring a touch of magic to your holiday table. By following a few simple tips and allowing room for customization, you can make these sparkling gems a beloved part of your holiday traditions. So why not add a little sparkle to your next celebration with homemade sugared cranberries? They’re guaranteed to delight your guests and elevate your holiday dishes.