Sugared Cranberries Recipe
Introduction
Sugared cranberries are a festive and tangy treat that adds a sparkling pop of color to any holiday spread. This simple recipe transforms fresh cranberries into a sweet, crunchy delight perfect for garnishing cocktails, desserts, or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar plus extra for coating
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large saucepan, bring the water, sugar, and vanilla extract to a simmer, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Step 2: Remove the pan from heat and add the fresh cranberries. Toss them gently with a wooden spoon to coat evenly in the syrup. Let them sit for 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Transfer the cranberries to a wire rack and allow them to dry for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Step 4: Pour some granulated sugar into a shallow dish. Roll the slightly sticky cranberries in the sugar until fully coated.
- Step 5: Place the sugared cranberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them dry completely for about 1 hour.
- Step 6: Store the sugared cranberries in an airtight container for up to 48 hours.
Tips & Variations
- Use a light vanilla or orange extract to add a subtle twist to the flavor.
- For extra sparkle, sprinkle a little coarse sanding sugar over the cranberries after coating.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of sugar in the syrup slightly.
- Try rolling the cranberries in cinnamon sugar for a warm, spiced variation.
Storage
Keep sugared cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their crisp texture. Avoid refrigerating as moisture can cause them to lose their sugar coating. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be gently refreshed by re-rolling in sugar if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Fresh cranberries are best because frozen ones can be too soft and wet, making it harder for the sugar to stick. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry very well before starting.
How do I serve sugared cranberries?
Sugared cranberries are perfect for garnishing holiday drinks, decorating cakes and cupcakes, or simply serving as a sweet snack alongside cheese boards.
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Sugared Cranberries Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Sugared cranberries are a delightful, festive treat perfect for holiday garnishes, cocktail decorations, or a sweet snack. Fresh cranberries are coated in a vanilla-infused simple syrup, then rolled in sugar to create a sparkling, crispy exterior with a tart and juicy interior. This easy 20-minute recipe yields a beautiful and flavorful batch of sugared cranberries that can be stored for up to 48 hours.
Ingredients
Simple Syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for coating
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Fruit
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
Instructions
- Prepare the simple syrup: In a large saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Coat the cranberries: Remove the saucepan from heat and add 2 cups of fresh cranberries. Toss gently with a wooden spoon to coat the cranberries evenly in the syrup. Let them soak in the syrup for 5 minutes to absorb the sweetness and vanilla flavor.
- Dry the cranberries partially: Transfer the cranberries to a wire rack to drain and allow them to dry for 20-30 minutes, which helps the syrup set slightly on their surface.
- Roll in sugar: Pour a generous amount of granulated sugar into a shallow dish. Roll the partially dried cranberries in the sugar to coat them thoroughly, creating a sparkling layer.
- Final drying: Place the sugared cranberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them dry completely at room temperature for approximately 1 hour, allowing the sugar coating to harden.
- Storage: Once fully dried, store the sugared cranberries in an airtight container. They will keep fresh and maintain their texture for up to 48 hours.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm cranberries for the best texture and coating adherence.
- Extra granulated sugar can be prepared in advance for coating the cranberries easily.
- If you prefer a stronger vanilla flavor, you can add more vanilla extract to the simple syrup.
- Store sugared cranberries in a cool, dry place to maintain crispiness.
- These cranberries make a beautiful garnish for desserts, cocktails, or cheese platters.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert Garnish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: sugared cranberries, candied cranberries, holiday garnish, cranberry recipe, simple syrup, vanilla cranberries
