Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Prepare these sugared cranberries in under 10 minutes, making them an effortless addition to your holiday preparations.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for snacking, decorating cheese boards, garnishing desserts, or adding to festive drinks.
- Festive Appearance: Their sparkling sugar coating adds a touch of elegance to any dish or table setting.
Ingredients
- 1 12-ounce bag of fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, water, and honey. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Coat the Cranberries: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the fresh cranberries to the syrup. Let them sit for 2 minutes, ensuring they are well coated.
- Toss with Powdered Sugar: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries from the syrup to a bowl containing the powdered sugar. Gently toss to coat each cranberry evenly.
- Bake to Set the Coating: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Arrange the sugared cranberries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 3 minutes to set the sugar coating.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the cranberries to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed or used as a garnish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 3 cups of sugared cranberries.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
Variations
- Citrus Twist: Add a sprinkle of orange or lemon zest to the powdered sugar for a zesty flavor enhancement.
- Spiced Cranberries: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the powdered sugar to introduce warm, spicy notes.
- Alcohol-Infused: Soak the cranberries in a mixture of Prosecco and orange juice before coating them in sugar for an adult-friendly treat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Place the sugared cranberries in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for 3-5 days, depending on the initial freshness of the cranberries.
- Reheating: These cranberries are best enjoyed at room temperature. If they have been refrigerated, allow them to sit out for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
What are sugared cranberries?
Sugared cranberries, also known as candied cranberries, are fresh cranberries coated in a sugar syrup and then rolled in sugar, giving them a sweet-tart flavor and a sparkling appearance.
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before using to achieve the best results.
How can I use sugared cranberries in desserts?
They make excellent garnishes for cakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes, and tarts, adding both visual appeal and a burst of flavor.
Are sugared cranberries suitable for cocktails?
Absolutely! They can be used as a festive garnish for holiday cocktails, adding a touch of elegance and a hint of tartness.
How long do sugared cranberries last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they can last up to 3-5 days.
Can I flavor the simple syrup?
Yes, you can infuse the syrup with flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, or citrus zest to add an extra dimension to the cranberries.
Why did my cranberries burst during preparation?
If the syrup is too hot when adding the cranberries, they may burst. Ensure the syrup is warm but not boiling when coating the cranberries.
Can I use other fruits instead of cranberries?
This method works best with firm, tart fruits like cranberries. Softer fruits may not hold up well during the sugaring process.
Is there a substitute for honey in this recipe?
You can use light corn syrup or maple syrup as a substitute for honey if desired.
How can I prevent the cranberries from clumping together?
Ensure they are spread out in a single layer during the drying process and gently separate any that stick together.
Conclusion
Sugared cranberries are a simple yet elegant addition to your holiday culinary repertoire. Their delightful combination of tartness and sweetness, coupled with their sparkling appearance, makes them a versatile treat for various occasions. Whether you’re garnishing a dessert, enhancing a cheese board, or looking for a festive snack, these sugared cranberries are sure to impress your guests and add a touch of holiday cheer to your table.
Sugared cranberries
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 3 cups of sugared cranberries
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sugared cranberries are a festive and versatile treat, offering a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness. Perfect as a garnish, snack, or cocktail enhancement, they add a sparkling touch to any holiday celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 12-ounce bag of fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Simple Syrup:
Combine granulated sugar, water, and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely (about 3 minutes). - Coat the Cranberries:
Remove the syrup from heat and add cranberries. Let them sit for 2 minutes to coat evenly. - Toss with Powdered Sugar:
Use a slotted spoon to transfer cranberries to a bowl of powdered sugar. Toss gently to coat each cranberry. - Bake to Set the Coating:
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Arrange cranberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 3 minutes. - Cool and Serve:
Let cranberries cool to room temperature. Use immediately or store for later.
Notes
- For a citrus twist, add orange or lemon zest to the powdered sugar.
- Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the powdered sugar for a warm, spiced variation.
- Alcohol-infused cranberries can be prepared by soaking them in a Prosecco and orange juice mixture before sugaring.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
