Sugared Cranberries

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Sugared Cranberries are a festive, easy treat to make. They are perfect for adding to a buffet table or decorating a cake. 

I’ve been into all things cranberry lately. Every time I go to the grocery store, I seem to pick up a few more bags! Maybe it’s an obsession, but I think it’s a good thing! Cranberry season doesn’t last too long, so I need to make the most of it. These sugared cranberries are my newest creation.

The best part about these cranberries, besides looking so stunning, is they are so easy to make! The most difficult thing is making certain you plan enough time. The berries need to dry two different times.  

What are sugared cranberries?

Sugared cranberries are fresh cranberries with a sugared crust. 

How do you use sugared cranberries?

These sugar covered cranberries can be eaten as a sweet treat. They are quite delicious all by themselves and  have a sweet and tart taste. You could also use them for decorating a holiday dessert, like this Cranberry Bundt Cake, or as a garnish for a holiday cocktail or beverage. 

What ingredients do I need?

You just need two ingredients: granulated sugar and fresh cranberries. That’s it! Well, you do also need water, but that doesn’t really count as an ingredient. 

How do I make sugared cranberries?

Add sugar and water into a small saucepan. Heat until all sugar is dissolved. 

Add cranberries and let soak for 10-15 minutes. 

Remove cranberries from pot with a slotted spoon. Place cranberries on a baking rack. 

Allow cranberries to dry for at least one hour. Cranberries will be very sticky, but should not have any remaining wet spots.  Place a few cranberries in a bowl with granulated sugar.

Toss berries until coated with sugar. 

Gently remove berries and place them back on baking rack. Allow berries to dry for an additional hour.

How do I store these cranberries?

Storing the cranberries is going going to vary depending on your humidity in your house. I was able to place the sugared berries in a small bowl and leave uncovered on my counter for two days. You could also store them in a covered container. The berries are best used within two days for best results. 

Can I make more than the recipe calls for?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled, depending on the amount of sugared berries you need. Just plan enough space for the berries to dry. 

Tips for making sugared cranberries

• Use a slotted spoon for removing berries from sugar water
• Allow berries to dry on a baking rack
• Place baking rack on top of a baking sheet. This helps contain the drips and makes clean up a bit easier.
• Use your fingers to place the berries into the sugar. They will be sticky, but once the granulated sugar starts to stick to the berries, the stickiness goes away.
• Handle the sugar covered berries as little as possible to help prevent brushing the sugar off the berries. 
• The extra sugar water used for soaking the berries can be saved and used in cocktail recipes calling for simple syrup. 

Other great recipes using fresh cranberries

• Cranberry Sweet Rolls
• Cranberry Scones
• Cranberry Muffins
• Cranberry Sauce
• Cranberry Apple Bread
• Cranberry Twist Bread
• Cranberry Orange Cookies
• Cranberry Jalapeno Bites

I told you I’ve been going a little crazy with cranberry recipes! 

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If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below and snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @beyondthechickencoop

Check out all my holiday recipes!