Sugared cranberries are a sweet and tart treat, perfect for adding a festive touch to any holiday dish or enjoying on their own. They’re simple to make and look stunning as a garnish or snack!
1CupGranulated Sugar (divided into ½ cup portions)
½ CupWater
Instructions
In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup sugar and ½ cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Add fresh cranberries to the syrup and gently stir to coat. Let them sit for about 10 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the cranberries from the syrup and let the excess syrup drip off. Place them on a wire rack or parchment paper in a single layer. Let them dry for about an hour until they’re tacky to the touch.
Once sticky, place the remaining ½ cup of sugar in a shallow dish. Roll each cranberry in the sugar until fully coated, giving them a frosty look.
Arrange the sugared cranberries on a clean baking sheet or plate to dry completely for about 30 minutes, allowing the sugar to harden.
Your sugared cranberries are ready! Enjoy them as a garnish, snack, or decoration. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Notes
Use Fresh Cranberries: Ensure the cranberries are firm and unblemished for the best results. Soft or bruised berries won’t hold the sugar coating as well.Cool Syrup Slightly: Allow the simple syrup to cool for a few minutes before adding the cranberries to prevent them from bursting.Work in Batches: Coat a small number of cranberries at a time to ensure even coverage with the sugar.Even Coating: Shake off excess sugar by gently tapping the coated cranberries on the side of the dish for a clean, sparkly finish.