Sugared Cranberries are a delightful and festive treat that adds a beautiful touch to holiday desserts, drinks, or as a garnish. These sweet-tart cranberries are coated in sugar, giving them a sparkling appearance and a delightful crunch. They make for a perfect snack or an elegant addition to your holiday table!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

Timing

Making Sugared Cranberries takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 1-2 hours for chilling and drying.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Simple Syrup

1. Combine Water and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Cool the Syrup: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Coat the Cranberries

1. Soak the Cranberries: Once the syrup has cooled, add the fresh cranberries to the saucepan. Stir gently to coat the cranberries in the syrup. Let them soak for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Sugar the Cranberries

1. Drain and Coat: After soaking, drain the cranberries and place them on a wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet to dry for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Coat with Sugar: Place the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar in a shallow bowl. Toss the cranberries in the sugar until they are fully coated.

Step 4: Dry and Store

1. Dry Completely: Return the sugared cranberries to the wire rack or baking sheet and let them dry for at least 1 hour. This will help the sugar adhere better.
2. Store: Store the sugared cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish: Use as a garnish for cocktails, cakes, or cheeseboards.
• Snack: Enjoy them as a sweet and tangy snack on their own.
• Decorate: Add them to holiday wreaths or centerpieces for a festive touch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Sugared Cranberries (per serving, based on 1/4 cup):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	100
Protein	0g
Fat	0g
Carbohydrates	27g
Sugar	25g

Tips for Customization

• Flavored Syrup: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a sprig of rosemary to the syrup for added flavor.
• Use Different Sugars: Experiment with different sugars, such as brown sugar or coconut sugar, for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Sugared Cranberries are a simple yet stunning treat that adds a touch of elegance to any holiday gathering. With their bright color and sweet-tart flavor, they are sure to impress!

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries; just thaw them before soaking in the syrup.

How do I store leftover sugared cranberries?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.