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Sugared Cranberries (Easy Recipe) Recipe

4.5 from 53 reviews

Sugared Cranberries are a simple and festive treat perfect for holiday garnishes, desserts, or snacking. Fresh cranberries are briefly simmered in a sugar syrup, then coated with granulated sugar to create a sparkling, sweet-tart bite that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided
  • 3 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed and dried

Instructions

  1. Make Simple Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 3 minutes to form a simple syrup.
  2. Coat Cranberries: Stir in the fresh cranberries, ensuring each berry is fully coated in the syrup. Remove the pan from the heat and continue stirring for 1 minute so the cranberries absorb the syrup evenly.
  3. Dry Cranberries: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a metal rack. Allow them to dry and set for about 1 hour, which helps the syrup slightly firm up on the berries’ surfaces.
  4. Sugar Coat: Once dried, roll the cranberries in batches through the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar to coat them thoroughly. This sugar coating adds a sparkling finish and balanced sweetness.

Notes

  • Use fresh, firm cranberries for best results; avoid ones that are soft or shriveled.
  • Ensure cranberries are completely dry before rolling in sugar to help the sugar adhere better.
  • Store sugared cranberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • This recipe can be doubled or tripled easily for larger quantities.

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