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Sugared Cranberries

Sugared Cranberries
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Sugared Cranberries are a simple and festive treat that combines the natural tartness of fresh cranberries with a sweet, crunchy sugar coating. Perfect as a garnish, snack, or decoration for holiday desserts and drinks, this easy-to-make recipe requires minimal ingredients and provides a beautiful sparkling presentation with delightful flavor contrast.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh cranberries (firm and bright red)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for coating
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Optional Variations

  • Pinch of cinnamon or ground cloves (for spiced sugared cranberries)
  • Colored sanding sugar (for festive colors like green, gold, or silver)
  • Fresh orange zest (to stir into the water-sugar mixture for citrus aroma)
  • Other berries, such as blueberries or currants (to mix with cranberries for a medley)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar. Warm gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved to create a smooth simple syrup. Optionally, add 1 teaspoon lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  2. Coat the Cranberries: Place 1 cup fresh cranberries in a shallow bowl. Pour enough cooled simple syrup over the berries to coat them thoroughly. Gently toss to ensure even coverage. Let the cranberries soak in the syrup for about 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb the sweetness and help the sugar stick.
  3. Sugar Coating: Prepare a plate or tray with a generous layer of granulated sugar. Using a slotted spoon, lift cranberries from the syrup, letting excess drip off. Roll each berry in the sugar until fully coated. Arrange the sugared cranberries on a parchment-lined tray and let them dry completely for at least one hour to set the sugar crystals around each berry.
  4. Store or Use: Once fully dried, store the sugared cranberries in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. Keep refrigerated in a single layer to maintain crispness and avoid crushing the sugar shell. Use as desired in garnishes, snacks, or decorations.

Notes

  • Choose firm, undamaged cranberries for the best texture and coating adherence.
  • Allow sugared cranberries to air dry completely for a crisp and lasting sugar shell.
  • Use granulated sugar rather than coarse sugar for more consistent coverage.
  • Work in small batches to ensure every cranberry gets coated evenly.
  • Store in the refrigerator in a single layer to avoid crushing the sugar coating.
  • Sugared cranberries keep fresh for up to one week when stored properly.
  • Freezing is possible but may soften texture; freeze in a single layer before transferring to containers.

Nutrition

Keywords: sugared cranberries, holiday garnish, festive treats, cranberry recipe, sugared fruit

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/sugared-cranberries/