Sugared Cranberries Delightful Holiday Recipe Guide

Sugared cranberries are a sweet treat that adds sparkle to your holiday meals. They’re easy to make and look beautiful on any table. In this guide, I’ll share simple steps to create these delightful bites. You'll learn about key ingredients, tips for the perfect glaze, and fun variations to try. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a festive touch they won’t forget!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

To make sugared cranberries, gather your ingredients first. Start with fresh cranberries. They should be bright and firm. This ensures they taste great. Next, get granulated sugar. You will need it for the syrup and coating. Water is also essential for creating your syrup.

Adding vanilla extract makes the flavor richer. A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness. If you want a fruity twist, use orange zest. It gives a nice citrus note.

These ingredients come together to create a delightful treat. They shine as a snack or a decoration for your holiday dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Rinse and dry cranberries.

Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Look for any stems or blemished ones and remove them. Set the clean cranberries aside on a kitchen towel to dry.

2. Prepare the syrup mixture.

In a medium saucepan, mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add a pinch of salt. For a twist, add the zest of 1 orange to brighten the flavor.

3. Simmer cranberries in syrup.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir it occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves. Then, add the cranberries to the boiling syrup. Reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for 5-7 minutes. You'll know they are ready when they start to pop and look glazed.

Coating and Drying

1. Transfer cranberries to a wire rack.

Use a slotted spoon to move the cranberries from the syrup to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This catches any drips. Let them cool for 15-20 minutes until the syrup becomes tacky.

2. Coat in granulated sugar.

While the cranberries are still sticky, roll them in granulated sugar. Make sure each cranberry is well-coated. Shake off any extra sugar to avoid clumps.

3. Allow to dry completely.

Place the sugared cranberries back on the wire rack. Let them dry for about 30 minutes. Once dried, you can enjoy them as a snack or use them to add sparkle to your holiday dishes!

Tips & Tricks

Selecting Fresh Cranberries

To get the best cranberries, look for firm, shiny berries. They should be bright red and free from blemishes. If you find any soft or shriveled ones, toss them out. You want the freshest cranberries for the best taste. Store cranberries in the fridge. They can last up to two weeks if kept dry and cool.

Achieving the Perfect Glaze

Temperature is key when simmering the cranberries. Keep the heat low after boiling. This helps the cranberries pop and release their juices. You will know they are ready when they start to burst and have a glossy finish.

Sugar Coating Tips

For an even sugar coating, roll the cranberries while they are still sticky. This helps the sugar stick well. Shake off any extra sugar to avoid clumps. You can also try coating them with powdered sugar for a different look. For a crunch, consider using crushed nuts or coconut flakes.

Variations

Flavored Sugared Cranberries

You can make sugared cranberries even more fun by adding flavors. One great option is citrus. Zest from an orange or lemon brightens the taste. Just mix it into the syrup as you cook. This small step adds a fresh twist.

You can also try spices. Cinnamon or nutmeg works well. Add a pinch to the syrup mixture for warmth. You may discover a new favorite flavor that surprises your guests.

Different Sweeteners

If you want to skip regular sugar, there are alternatives. Honey or maple syrup can add a nice touch. They give a different flavor and sweetness. Use them in the same way as sugar in the recipe.

Natural sweeteners like stevia or agave are also options. They are lower in calories and can be healthy. Adjust the amount you use, as they can be sweeter than sugar.

Incorporating Other Ingredients

Sugared cranberries shine on their own, but pairing them with other ingredients is fun! Try mixing them with nuts. Pecans or almonds add crunch and richness. This combo can be a great snack or topping.

You can also add chocolate. Dark or white chocolate drizzles create a sweet treat. The mix of tart cranberries and rich chocolate is hard to resist.

Lastly, consider adding herbs. Fresh mint or rosemary adds a savory note. This twist can be exciting for your taste buds. Try it out for a unique holiday snack!

Storage Info

Storing Sugared Cranberries

To keep your sugared cranberries fresh, use airtight containers. Glass jars or plastic containers work well. Make sure they are clean and dry before use. Store them in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight.

Sugared cranberries last about 1 week in the pantry. If you keep them in the fridge, they may last up to 2 weeks. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing sugared cranberries is easy. Start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they do not touch each other. Freeze them for about 1 hour until firm.

Once frozen, transfer the cranberries into a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Write the date on the bag so you remember when you froze them.

When you want to use them, take out the desired amount. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Use them in your favorite recipes or enjoy them as a snack!

FAQs

How long do sugared cranberries last?

Sugared cranberries can last up to two weeks when stored properly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them. Just remember, they may lose some crunchiness after a few days.

Can I use frozen cranberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. However, they may not pop or glaze as fresh ones do. If using frozen cranberries, thaw them first. Drain any excess water before adding them to the syrup.

Are sugared cranberries healthy?

Sugared cranberries contain some health benefits. They are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. However, they do have added sugar, which increases calorie content. Enjoy them in moderation to balance health and taste.

What can I serve with sugared cranberries?

Sugared cranberries are great with many dishes! Serve them on a cheese platter, with desserts, or in salads. They add a sweet, tart flavor and a lovely pop of color.

How do I make a sugared cranberry garnish?

To make a sugared cranberry garnish, coat fresh cranberries in sugar. First, prepare them as in the recipe. Once they are dry, simply place them on top of desserts or around dishes for a festive touch.

In this post, we explored how to make sugared cranberries. We discussed key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for success. You learned how to coat and store these sweet treats. Remember to choose fresh cranberries for the best flavor. Don’t hesitate to try variations like using citrus zest or alternative sweeteners. With this knowledge, you can create a delicious and eye-catching snack. Enjoy sharing your tasty creation with family and friend

Sugared Cranberries Delight

A delightful treat of sweetened cranberries, perfect for snacking or decorating holiday dishes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar (plus additional for coating)
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 zest orange (optional)

Instructions

 

• Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Remove any stems or blemished cranberries. Set aside to dry on a clean kitchen towel.
• In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. (If using, add in the orange zest for a citrusy twist.)
• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves.
• Once the syrup is boiling and clear, add the cranberries to the syrup, ensuring they are well-coated.
• Reduce the heat to low and let the cranberries simmer in the syrup for about 5-7 minutes, until they begin to pop and become glazed.
• Remove from heat and use a slotted spoon to transfer the cranberries to a wire rack set over a baking sheet (to catch drips). Allow them to cool for 15-20 minutes until the syrup becomes tacky.
• While the cranberries are still slightly sticky, roll them in granulated sugar to coat them fully. Shake off any excess sugar.
• Return the sugared cranberries to the wire rack to dry completely for about 30 minutes.
• Once dried, enjoy your beautiful sugared cranberries as a snack, or use them to decorate desserts and holiday dishes!

Notes

For added flavor, consider using orange zest.

Keyword cranberries, holiday treat, sugar