Winter can sometimes bring a feeling of melancholy, but with the right recipe in hand, you can brighten up your days with a burst of sweet and tangy flavors. In this article, we’ll show you how to make bright red candied cranberries that are not only delicious but also perfect for adding a festive touch to your winter gatherings or as a delightful snack to enjoy by the fireplace.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups fresh cranberries
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Additional sugar for coating
**Instructions:**
**Step 1 – Prep the Cranberries**
Start by rinsing the cranberries thoroughly under cold water and removing any stems or debris. Pat them dry gently using a paper towel.
**Step 2 – Make the Sugar Syrup**
In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved. Bring it to a gentle boil.
**Step 3 – Add the Cranberries**
Carefully add the fresh cranberries to the sugar syrup. Let them simmer in the syrup for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the cranberries start to pop and release their juices.
**Step 4 – Simmer and Infuse**
Reduce the heat to low and let the cranberries simmer in the syrup for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will allow the cranberries to absorb the flavors of the syrup and become candied.
**Step 5 – Drain and Cool**
Using a slotted spoon, remove the candied cranberries from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to drain excess syrup. Let them cool for a few minutes.
**Step 6 – Coat with Sugar**
Once the cranberries are slightly cooled but still sticky, roll them in a bowl of granulated sugar until they are evenly coated. This step will give them a nice sugary finish and add a bit of crunch.
**Step 7 – Let Them Set**
Place the sugar-coated cranberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other. Let them sit at room temperature for about an hour to allow the sugar coating to harden.
**Step 8 – Serve and Enjoy**
Once the sugar coating has set, your bright red candied cranberries are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as a colorful topping for desserts, a festive addition to cheese platters, or simply as a sweet and tangy snack.
These candied cranberries are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. The perfect balance of sweetness and tartness makes them a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways throughout the winter season. So, next time you’re feeling a bit blue, whip up a batch of these bright red beauties to add a touch of cheer to your day!
