Okay, let’s dive into a simple comfort food that’s both beautiful and delicious: Sugared Cranberries! My kids think they’re the fanciest thing I make, and honestly, they take almost no time. One year, I was running behind for our holiday potluck, and these Sugared Cranberries saved the day! I threw them together in a flash, and everyone raved about them. That’s when I knew I had to share this sanity-saving comfort food with all you amazing moms.
This recipe for Sugared Cranberries has become a cherished part of our family’s holiday traditions. My youngest, Leo, helps me roll the cranberries in sugar – his little face covered in sweetness is the best part! It’s a comforting memory I cherish. It is also one of those simple recipes that I can feel confident making with my kids, knowing we’ll end up with a truly beautiful and edible result.
If you’re like me, always looking for simple solutions to make your family’s holidays extra special, then these delightful Sugared Cranberries are just what you need. So grab your cranberries, and let’s make some magic together!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful little jewels. Trust me, this Sugared Cranberries ingredient list is simple because busy moms need comfort without complexity!
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries: These are the stars of our show. Look for firm, bright red berries at your grocery store.
- 2 cups granulated sugar, divided: One cup for the simple syrup and one for coating. I like using organic cane sugar when I make these Sugared Cranberries.
- 1 cup water: For creating the simple syrup that makes the magic happen.
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a little extra warmth and comfort. My family gets extra comfort when I add this to the Sugared Cranberries.
You can find these simple ingredients at your regular grocery store – no fancy specialty shops needed! This Sugared Cranberries proves delicious doesn’t mean expensive, which I love. If you’re looking for a shortcut, you can even use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.
Let’s Make it Happen!
Ready to transform these simple ingredients into beautiful, delicious Sugared Cranberries? Don’t worry; this is a super easy comfort food recipe!
- Make the simple syrup: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool completely. This step is crucial to ensure the sugar adheres properly!
- Soak the cranberries: Once the simple syrup is cool, add the vanilla extract (if using) and the fresh cranberries. Gently stir to make sure all the cranberries are coated in the syrup. I usually let them soak for about an hour, but even 30 minutes will do in a pinch.
- Dry the cranberries: Using a slotted spoon, remove the cranberries from the syrup and place them on a wire rack lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are not touching each other. Let them dry for at least an hour, or even better, overnight. The longer they dry, the better the sugar will stick!
- Coat in sugar: Pour the remaining 1 cup of sugar into a shallow dish. Gently roll the dried cranberries in the sugar, making sure they are completely coated. Shake off any excess sugar.
- Let them set: Place the Sugared Cranberries back on the parchment-lined wire rack and let them sit for about an hour to allow the sugar coating to harden. This helps prevent the sugar from melting when you handle them.
- Enjoy! Once the sugar has set, your Sugared Cranberries are ready to be enjoyed! They make a beautiful and delicious garnish for desserts, cocktails, or just as a sweet treat on their own.
In my busy kitchen, this comforting Sugared Cranberries recipe usually takes me about 15 minutes of active time. Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch while the syrup cools! I have to admit, the first time I made this, the cranberries were not completely covered in sugar, but I learned to use a sieve to gently shake off the extra syrup before coating.
While your Sugared Cranberries are drying, take a moment to appreciate creating comfort for your family! Trust me, the simple steps will be worth it.
How We Love to Eat This!
These Sugared Cranberries are so versatile! My family loves them in so many different ways. The kids devour this comforting treat when I serve them straight from the fridge. They’re like little bursts of sweet and tart flavor! These are one of my favorite holiday garnishes to keep on hand.
- Garnish for desserts: They add a pop of color and flavor to cakes, cupcakes, and pies.
- Cocktail garnish: Perfect for festive holiday drinks!
- Snack attack: My kids love to eat them straight out of the bowl.
- Cheese boards: They pair beautifully with creamy cheeses and crackers.
- Salad topping: Adds a sweet and tangy crunch to your favorite salad.
This Sugared Cranberries recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need a little something special to brighten our day. I often make a big batch and keep them in the fridge for snacking throughout the week.
Leftovers? Not usually in my house! But if you do have any, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for several days. I have used leftover sugared cranberries to decorate a simple cake.
My guests are always impressed when I serve these Sugared Cranberries. They think I spent hours in the kitchen, but it’s our little secret how easy they are to make!
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Here are some common questions I get from fellow moms about making Sugared Cranberries. I hope these answers help you feel confident and ready to give this recipe a try!
Is this Sugared Cranberries recipe really filling enough for growing kids?
While they are more of a treat, they do provide a little boost of Vitamin C! I pair it with other healthy snacks for a balanced treat.
What if my picky eater won’t try this Sugared Cranberries recipe?
I totally get it! Picky eaters can be a challenge. Try letting your child help you make them. Sometimes, being involved in the process can make them more willing to try new things. You can also start by offering just one or two cranberries and see what happens!
Can I meal prep this Sugared Cranberries for busy weeks ahead?
Absolutely! These are perfect for meal prepping. You can make a big batch on the weekend and store them in the fridge for up to a week. They’re great for adding a little festive touch to school lunches or after-school snacks.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using. This will help the sugar adhere properly.
How long do Sugared Cranberries last?
They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about a week if stored in an airtight container.
Can I make these ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! In fact, I recommend it. Making them a day or two in advance allows the sugar coating to harden properly, making them easier to handle and even more delicious.
What if the sugar coating starts to melt?
This can happen if the cranberries are not completely dry before coating them in sugar. Make sure to dry them thoroughly on a wire rack before rolling them in sugar. If the sugar does start to melt, simply pop them back in the fridge for a bit to harden.
These Sugared Cranberries have become a staple in our home, and I hope they become one for you too! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make them your own.
Final Thoughts:
I truly hope this simple Sugared Cranberries recipe brings as much joy and comfort to your family as it has to mine. It’s a sanity-saving comfort food that’s perfect for busy moms who want to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen. I especially love making these during the holiday season when I use them as garnishes for desserts and cocktails.
My Sugared Cranberries Comfort Hacks
- Use a wire rack: It helps the cranberries dry evenly, preventing the sugar from melting.
- Add vanilla: A teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a warm, comforting flavor.
- Get the kids involved: Let them help roll the cranberries in sugar for a fun and festive activity.
Here are a few family-tested variations you might want to try:
- Spiced Sugared Cranberries: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar for a warm, festive flavor. My husband loves this version!
- Citrus Sugared Cranberries: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the sugar for a bright, tangy twist. The kids prefer this version!
- Rosemary Sugared Cranberries: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary to the simple syrup for an earthy, aromatic flavor How to Make Sugared Cranberries and Rosemary – What the Fork.
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for your family. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this Sugared Cranberries recipe your own. I would love to see you try some of my other recipes, too, like my Halloween Whoopie Pies. If your kids love this recipe, they’ll go crazy for my Italian Sausage and Potato Soup!
The most important thing is that you’re creating a moment of connection and comfort for your loved ones. I am certain that your family will enjoy the process and result!
I hope your family enjoys these satisfying Sugared Cranberries as much as mine does. Happy cooking, and remember to embrace the cozy chaos! For more ideas check out Sugared Cranberries (easy w/ video!) | Vanilla And Bean and sugared cranberries – a gorgeous cocktail garnish – bite
Sugared Cranberries
These sugared cranberries are a delightful burst of sweet and tart flavor, perfect for garnishing desserts, cheeseboards, or simply snacking. They’re incredibly easy to make and add a festive touch to any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar, divided
- ¾ cup water
Instructions
- Wash and pick over the cranberries, removing any stems or bruised berries.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water and 1 cup of sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the cranberries to the sugar syrup and cook for 1-2 minutes, just until the skins begin to crack.
- Remove from heat and let the cranberries sit in the syrup for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours.
- Drain the cranberries thoroughly using a strainer.
- Place the remaining 1 cup of sugar in a shallow dish. Roll the drained cranberries in the sugar until completely coated.
- Spread the sugared cranberries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Let the cranberries dry for at least 1 hour, or until the sugar coating is firm.
Notes
For a festive twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar before coating the cranberries.