Candied Cranberry Sugar Snack

Candied Cranberry Sugar Snack: A Delightful and Festive Treat

There’s something inherently magical about biting into a sweet, fruity morsel, especially when it’s laden with the delightful crunch of sugar. That’s exactly what the Candied Cranberry Sugar Snack offers—sweet, tart, and oh-so-addictive. This recipe has a special place in my heart, particularly during the holiday season when cranberries are in abundance. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or looking for a unique snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, these candied cranberries will surely impress. Their vibrant color and delightful crunch make them the perfect addition to any dessert spread or a charming treat for your family and friends.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets the Candied Cranberry Sugar Snack apart from other sweet treats is its unique blend of flavors and textures. The tartness of fresh cranberries mixed with a sugary coating creates a delightful contrast that’s just irresistible. The process is quick, simple, and budget-friendly—perfect for those last-minute holiday preparations or as a fun weekend project with the kids.

"I made these for a holiday party, and they disappeared in minutes! Everyone kept asking for the recipe!" — Sarah, avid home cook

These candied delights aren’t just about flavor; they’re visually stunning too. Their jewel-like appearance brightens up any table, making them a festive treat for gatherings or a simple addition to your afternoon tea. Whether you enjoy them on their own, toss them in your oatmeal, or use them as a garnish for desserts, they truly shine in versatility.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Creating these sugary treats is as delightful as eating them! By following a few simple steps, you’ll have your Candied Cranberry Sugar Snack ready in no time. Below is a quick overview to get you familiar with the process:

1. Prepare cranberries. Rinse and dry the fresh cranberries.
2. Make sugar syrup. Combine water and sugar, heat until dissolved.
3. Soak cranberries. Coat them in the syrup and let them soak briefly.
4. Drain and coat. Let the excess syrup drip off and roll them in sugar.
5. Dry. Allow the cranberries to dry until the sugar forms a crisp shell.

Now that you have a grasp of the method, let’s gather what you need.

Gather Your Ingredients

To make the delicious Candied Cranberry Sugar Snack, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries (frozen cranberries can work in a pinch, though they may not have the same texture)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for the syrup)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

This straightforward list ensures you can whip them up without any fuss.

Cooking Steps

1. Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water, then drying them thoroughly with paper towels. This step is key—excess moisture can affect the candied coating.

2. In a small saucepan, combine the water and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Heat it over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Once it’s dissolved, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool for about 2 minutes.

3. Gently stir the cranberries into the cooled syrup, making sure they are all coated. Let them soak for about 5 minutes—this step allows the cranberries to absorb the sweet syrup.

4. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the soaked cranberries to a wire rack set over parchment paper to let the excess syrup drain for about 15 minutes.

5. Place the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar in a shallow bowl. Working in batches, roll the sticky cranberries in the sugar until they are evenly coated.

6. Arrange the sugar-coated cranberries back on the wire rack and let them dry at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or until the sugar shell is crisp.

Best Way to Serve

These candied cranberries are incredibly versatile! They shine on their own as a delightful snack, but they can also elevate various dishes. Consider:

• Garnishing holiday desserts like cakes or cheesecakes.
• Mixing them into salads for a sweet twist.
• Using them as a festive topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
• Pairing them with cheese boards, where their sweetness complements savory cheeses wonderfully.

Feel free to explore and get creative with your presentation!

Storage Tips

To keep your candied cranberries fresh and crunchy, follow these storage suggestions:

• Store in an airtight container: To prevent moisture from compromising the sugar coating, place your candies in a glass jar or a plastic container with a secure lid.
• Keep them cool: Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight. They will generally stay fresh for up to two weeks.
• Avoid refrigeration: Refrigeration can cause the sugar coating to soften, leading to a sticky mess.

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), they can be frozen. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly when thawed.

Pro Chef Tips

• Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the sugar syrup for an extra layer of flavor.
• Ensure proper drying: The key to a perfect sugar coating lies in letting the cranberries dry completely; this ensures that the sugar has a nice crunch.
• Use high-quality ingredients: When possible, opt for organic cranberries, as their flavor and quality make a noticeable difference in the final product.

Creative Twists

Once you’ve perfected the basic recipe, consider trying some of these fun variations:

• Spiced Cranberries: Add a dash of nutmeg or allspice to the sugar before coating for a warm flavor.
• Chocolate-Dipped Version: After coating with sugar and allowing to dry, dip the cranberries in melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
• Citrus Zest: Mix some orange or lemon zest into the sugar for a vibrant citrus kick.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?

The total prep time, including soaking and drying, is approximately 90 minutes. However, the active cooking time is only around 30 minutes!

Can I substitute the sugar?

Yes! For a healthier twist, you can try using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute that measures similarly, though the flavor and texture may vary.

How long will they last?

When stored properly, candied cranberries can last up to two weeks at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

Are these suitable for dietary restrictions?

This recipe is vegan and gluten-free as written. However, if using sugar substitutes, check the specific product for any dietary concerns.

Now that you have detailed insights into crafting your own Candied Cranberry Sugar Snack, it’s time to roll up those sleeves and get started! Enjoy the delightful process and the spectacular results.

Candied Cranberry Sugar Snack

---

• Total Time: 90 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A delightful and festive treat made of sweet, tart cranberries coated in sugar, perfect for holiday gatherings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

---

Instructions

1. Rinse and dry the cranberries thoroughly with paper towels.
2. In a small saucepan, combine water and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar; heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and cool for 2 minutes, then stir in cranberries and let soak for 5 minutes.
4. Using a slotted spoon, transfer soaked cranberries to a wire rack to drain for 15 minutes.
5. Roll cranberries in 1 cup of sugar until coated, then return to the wire rack.
6. Let cranberries dry for at least 1 hour until the sugar shell is crisp.

Notes

Store in an airtight container away from heat and sunlight. They can last up to two weeks and may be frozen with slight texture changes.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Candying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: candied cranberries, festive snacks, holiday treats