Candied cranberries are a delightful treat that can add a burst of festive flavor to any dish. These sweet and tangy morsels are perfect for snacking on their own, garnishing desserts, or even adding a pop of color to savory dishes. Plus, they make a lovely homemade gift during the holiday season. Today, we’re revisiting the classic candied cranberries recipe with a few twists to make them even more irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
– Extra granulated sugar for coating
Instructions:
1. Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water and picking out any stems or soft berries. Pat them dry gently with a paper towel.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Carefully add the fresh cranberries to the simmering sugar syrup. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the cranberries start to soften and burst slightly.
4. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cranberries from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. Allow them to sit for 10-15 minutes until they are tacky but not overly sticky.
5. Prepare a shallow dish with extra granulated sugar for coating the cranberries. Roll each cranberry in the sugar until it’s evenly coated, creating a sparkly finish.
6. If desired, you can enhance the flavor of your candied cranberries by adding a touch of vanilla extract to the sugar syrup before cooking the cranberries. This subtle hint of vanilla will complement the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
7. Allow the sugar-coated cranberries to dry completely on the wire rack for at least an hour. This will help the sugar coating set and create a lovely crunchy texture.
8. Once the candied cranberries are dry, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also make a charming addition to holiday gift baskets or as a garnish for cocktails and desserts.
These candied cranberries are not only a delightful treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes with their vibrant red hue and sugary sparkle. Whether you enjoy them on their own or use them to elevate your culinary creations, these sweet and tangy gems are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and give this updated candied cranberries recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!
