Introduction
Add some sparkle to your life with these Sugared Cranberries! Not only are they a feast for the eyes, but they’re also a burst of flavor and festivity in every bite. Perfect as a sweet snack or a gorgeous garnish, these little gems are the ultimate holiday treat!
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- For the Sugar Coating: 1 cup granulated sugar
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (or overnight if soaking)
- Yield: Approximately 3 cups
Directions
1. Get ready to dazzle by heating water and 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved to make a simple syrup. Do not boil!
2. Take the syrup off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
3. Once slightly cooled, fold in your cranberries, ensuring they’re all well coated. Cover, refrigerate, and let them soak up that sweet magic for at least an hour or overnight if possible.
4. Drain the cranberries (but keep that yummy syrup for another recipe if you want to get creative later).
5. It’s time for sparkle central! Roll those cranberries in a shallow dish filled with the remaining sugar, making sure they’re sparkly and fully coated.
6. Spread them out on a lined baking sheet and let them dry for at least an hour at room temp. Now, they’re ready for your snacking pleasure or as a stunning garnish.
Nutritional Information
Each delightful serving offers: Calories: Approximately 90 kcal, Sugar: 24g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Simple Syrup
Get ready to dazzle by heating water and 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved to make a simple syrup. Do not boil!
Step 2: Cool the Syrup
Take the syrup off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Coat the Cranberries
Once slightly cooled, fold in your cranberries, ensuring they’re all well coated. Cover, refrigerate, and let them soak up that sweet magic for at least an hour or overnight if possible.
Step 4: Drain the Cranberries
Drain the cranberries (but keep that yummy syrup for another recipe if you want to get creative later).
Step 5: Add the Sugar Coating
It’s time for sparkle central! Roll those cranberries in a shallow dish filled with the remaining sugar, making sure they’re sparkly and fully coated.
Step 6: Dry the Cranberries
Spread them out on a lined baking sheet and let them dry for at least an hour at room temp. Now, they’re ready for your snacking pleasure or as a stunning garnish.
Notes
Tip 1: Serving Suggestions
Sugared cranberries can be enjoyed as a sweet snack on their own or used as a beautiful garnish for holiday desserts and cocktails.
Tip 2: Creative Uses
Consider using the reserved simple syrup in cocktails, drizzled over pancakes, or in salad dressings for an extra hint of sweetness.
Tip 3: Storage
Store any leftover sugared cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for the best taste and texture.
Cook techniques
Making Simple Syrup
Heat water and granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until sugar completely dissolves. Avoid boiling to maintain the syrup’s clarity.
Soaking the Cranberries
After cooling the syrup, fold in the cranberries and allow them to soak for at least an hour, or preferably overnight, to fully absorb the sweetness.
Coating with Sugar
Drain the cranberries and roll them in granulated sugar until they are fully coated, ensuring they’re sparkly and ready for presentation.
Drying the Sugared Cranberries
Spread the coated cranberries on a lined baking sheet and let them dry for at least an hour at room temperature to achieve the perfect texture.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Fresh cranberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but you can use frozen cranberries if needed. Just ensure they are completely thawed.
How long will sugared cranberries stay fresh?
Sugared cranberries can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them a great make-ahead treat.
What can I do with the leftover simple syrup?
The leftover simple syrup can be used to sweeten drinks, drizzle over desserts, or as a base for marinades and dressings.
Are there any variations for flavoring the sugared cranberries?
Yes! You can infuse the simple syrup with spices like cinnamon or vanilla, or add citrus zest for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Can I use a sugar substitute instead of granulated sugar?
While granulated sugar provides the best results, you can experiment with sugar substitutes. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary.
Conclusion
