Sugared Cranberries

Sugared cranberries are a festive and sweet treat that adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. These bright, tart berries are coated in a sugary crust, creating a delightful contrast between the sweetness of the sugar and the natural tartness of the cranberries. Perfect for holiday gatherings, garnishing desserts, or simply snacking, sugared cranberries are both easy to make and visually stunning.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup water

Directions

1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely.
2. Add the cranberries to the saucepan and stir gently to coat the cranberries evenly in the syrup.
3. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cranberries from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to dry for about 1 hour.
4. Roll the cranberries in the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until well coated.
5. Allow the sugared cranberries to dry for another hour before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours

Variations

1. Sparkling Sugared Cranberries: Add a pinch of edible glitter or sparkling sugar to the granulated sugar for an extra festive touch.
2. Flavored Sugared Cranberries: Infuse the syrup with a splash of orange juice or vanilla extract before coating the cranberries for a subtle flavor boost.
3. Cranberry Garnishes: Use these sugared cranberries as a garnish for holiday drinks, cakes, or pies.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store sugared cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: These cranberries are best served fresh, as the sugar coating may dissolve over time. Recrisping them is not recommended.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
   Fresh cranberries are ideal, but frozen cranberries can be used. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before making the sugared cranberries.
2. How can I prevent the cranberries from sticking together?
   Make sure the cranberries are well coated with sugar and allow them to dry fully before storing. A wire rack helps prevent clumping.
3. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
   While brown sugar can be used, it will create a different texture and flavor, with a more molasses-like taste.
4. Can I make sugared cranberries in advance?
   Yes, they can be prepared 1-2 days ahead of time. Just keep them in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture.
5. Can I use a different sweetener like honey or maple syrup?
   While you can experiment with honey or maple syrup, granulated sugar gives the perfect coating. Other sweeteners may alter the texture and appearance.
6. How long will sugared cranberries last?
   They will stay fresh for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container.
7. Can I use this method for other fruits?
   Yes, you can apply the same method to other fruits like grapes, strawberries, or even small citrus slices.
8. Are sugared cranberries safe to eat?
   Yes, sugared cranberries are completely safe to eat, but they are best enjoyed in moderation due to their sweetness.
9. Can I use flavored syrups?
   Yes, flavored syrups like ginger, cinnamon, or citrus can add a nice twist to the sugared cranberries.
10. How do I know when the cranberries are dry enough?
    The cranberries should feel firm and dry to the touch, with a slightly matte finish after rolling in sugar.

Conclusion

Sugared cranberries are a simple yet elegant treat that can elevate any occasion. With their vibrant color, delicate sweetness, and tart burst, they make an excellent garnish for holiday meals, cocktails, or even as a snack. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to add a festive touch to your table, these sugared cranberries will be a delightful addition to your recipe collection.

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