Irresistible Candied Cranberries Recipe Easy Festive Snack

The first time I made candied cranberries, I was blown away by how something so simple could be so stunning. Imagine vibrant ruby-red berries coated in a sparkly sugar crust – they’re sweet, tart, and absolutely gorgeous. Whether you’re looking for a unique holiday snack or a festive garnish for your desserts, this recipe checks all the boxes!

There’s something magical about these candied cranberries. They’re not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. I love making these for holiday parties and watching everyone’s faces light up when they try them. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them every holiday season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: You don’t need fancy skills or hours of prep time – these are ready in just a few simple steps.
• Beautifully festive: The sparkling sugar coating makes these cranberries look like they’re dusted with fresh snow. Perfect for holiday tables!
• Versatile: Use them as a snack, a cocktail garnish, or to decorate cakes, cupcakes, or even cheese boards.
• Flavor explosion: They’re a delightful mix of sweet and tart, with a satisfying crunch that makes them addictive.
• Minimal ingredients: You only need cranberries, sugar, and water – simple, right?
• Kid-friendly: Kids love the sweet coating and the pop of flavor when they bite into these.

What makes this recipe stand out is how effortlessly you can transform humble cranberries into something truly special. The sugar coating adds sparkle, while the tartness of the berries keeps things exciting. It’s the perfect combination of beauty and taste – ideal for impressing your holiday guests!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses just a handful of ingredients, proving that sometimes less is more. Each ingredient plays a key role in making your candied cranberries shine (literally!).

• Fresh cranberries: Choose firm, plump cranberries for the best results. Avoid ones that are soft or wrinkled.
• Granulated sugar: This is the star of the show! You’ll need it for the syrup and the sparkling coating.
• Water: Filtered or tap water will work just fine – this is used to make the sugar syrup.

That’s it! Just three ingredients to create a show-stopping holiday treat. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with flavored syrups or add a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy gadgets to make candied cranberries. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Medium saucepan: For making the sugar syrup.
• Wire rack: Ideal for letting the cranberries dry and set after coating.
• Parchment paper: To catch any excess sugar and keep your counters clean.
• Slotted spoon: Helps you scoop the cranberries out of the syrup without making a mess.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for tossing the cranberries with sugar.

If you don’t have a wire rack, you can use a large plate lined with parchment paper – just be sure to spread the cranberries out so they don’t stick together!

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the sugar syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup (240 ml) of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely. Let the syrup cool slightly – you want it warm, not boiling.
2. Coat the cranberries: Carefully add 2 cups (200 g) of fresh cranberries to the warm syrup. Stir gently to ensure all the berries are coated, then let them sit in the syrup for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the cranberries to absorb the sweetness.
3. Drain the cranberries: Using a slotted spoon, remove the cranberries from the syrup and place them on a wire rack lined with parchment paper. Let them dry for about 1 hour. They should be tacky, not wet, when ready for the next step.
4. Roll in sugar: Place 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Working in batches, toss the sticky cranberries in the sugar until fully coated. Be gentle to avoid breaking the berries.
5. Let them set: Return the sugared cranberries to the wire rack and let them dry for another hour. Once the sugar hardens, your candied cranberries are ready to enjoy!

Pro tip: Save the leftover sugar syrup – it’s perfect for cocktails or drizzling over pancakes and waffles!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some insider tips to ensure your candied cranberries turn out perfect every time:

• Don’t rush the drying process: Letting the cranberries dry on the rack ensures that the sugar adheres properly and forms that signature sparkly coating.
• Use a gentle hand: Cranberries can be delicate, so handle them carefully when tossing them in sugar to avoid breaking or crushing them.
• Experiment with flavors: Add a splash of orange juice or a pinch of cinnamon to the sugar syrup for a fun twist.
• Store them properly: Keep your candied cranberries in an airtight container to maintain their crunch and freshness.
• Use the syrup wisely: Don’t toss out the leftover sugar syrup! It’s fantastic for sweetening tea or cocktails during the holiday season.

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about candied cranberries is their versatility. Here are some fun ways to change things up:

• Flavorful twists: Add a splash of vanilla extract, almond extract, or citrus zest to the sugar syrup for a unique flavor profile.
• Dietary adaptations: Use coconut sugar or maple sugar instead of granulated sugar for a refined sugar-free version. You can also try monk fruit sweetener for a low-carb option.
• Seasonal swaps: Replace cranberries with blueberries, raspberries, or even chopped strawberries when they’re in season.
• Spiced cranberries: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the sugar before rolling the cranberries. It adds a warm, holiday vibe.
• Festive colors: Mix in some granulated green-colored sugar for a red-and-green holiday look!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These candied cranberries are as versatile as they are delicious. Here’s how to enjoy and store them:

• Serving: Serve them in a decorative bowl as a festive snack, use them to garnish cocktails, or scatter them over cakes, cupcakes, or holiday pies for a sparkling touch.
• Pairings: They pair beautifully with a charcuterie board, especially alongside creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
• Storage: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Reheating: No reheating needed, but if you want to refresh the sugar coating, roll them in a bit more granulated sugar before serving.
• Flavor development: The tartness mellows slightly after a day, making them even better over time.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s the good news – these candied cranberries aren’t just delicious, they’re also packed with some nutritional benefits!

• Calories: Approximately 75 calories per serving (based on a handful).
• Vitamin C boost: Cranberries are a fantastic source of vitamin C, which supports your immune system.
• Antioxidants: These little berries are loaded with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.
• Low-fat treat: A sweet option that’s naturally fat-free and satisfying.
• Dietary considerations: Gluten-free and easily adaptable to be low-carb or refined sugar-free.

Just keep in mind that they do contain added sugar, so enjoy them in moderation!

Conclusion

If you’re searching for the perfect festive snack, these irresistible candied cranberries are it. With their dazzling appearance, sweet-tart flavor, and versatility, they’re a holiday favorite in my home. Plus, they’re so easy to customize – whether you want to make them sugar-free, add a hint of spice, or switch up the fruit.

Every time I make these, I’m reminded of why I love them so much – they’re a treat that brings people together and adds a touch of magic to any celebration. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover the joy of candied cranberries for yourself. If you do, let me know how they turn out in the comments below – I’d love to hear your thoughts and adaptations!

Happy holiday cooking! May your season be as sweet and sparkly as these cranberries!

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Fresh cranberries work best, but you can use frozen ones if they’re thawed and well-drained first. They might be softer, so handle them with care when coating in sugar.

How do I prevent the cranberries from clumping together?

Make sure you give them enough space on the wire rack to dry separately. If they’re too close together, they’ll stick to each other.

Can I make candied cranberries ahead of time?

Absolutely! These can be made up to a week in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh.

What can I do with the leftover sugar syrup?

Don’t waste it! Use it to sweeten tea, cocktails, or drizzle it over pancakes and waffles. It’s a delicious way to add a festive touch!

Are candied cranberries healthy?

While they do contain added sugar, cranberries themselves are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. They’re a great treat when enjoyed in moderation!

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