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Perfect Sugared Cranberries Recipe for Easy Holiday Garnish

sugared cranberries - featured image

Tart, juicy cranberries wrapped in a delicate shimmer of sugar make for a stunning garnish that transforms any dessert, cocktail, or holiday table into something memorable.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (100g) fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240ml) water
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar for coating

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sugar syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar and 1 cup (240ml) water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely.
  2. Add the cranberries: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully add 1 cup (100g) fresh cranberries to the syrup. Stir gently to coat the cranberries completely.
  3. Transfer and dry: Using a slotted spoon, remove the cranberries from the syrup and place them on a wire rack set over parchment paper. Allow them to dry for at least 1 hour, or until they’re tacky to the touch.
  4. Toss in sugar: In a large bowl, add ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar. Working in batches, gently toss the cranberries in the sugar until coated evenly.
  5. Final drying step: Return the sugared cranberries to the wire rack and let them dry completely, which usually takes about 1-2 hours.

Notes

[‘Don’t rush the drying time; cranberries need to be tacky before tossing them in sugar.’, ‘Use fresh, firm cranberries for best results.’, ‘Superfine sugar creates a smoother coating, while raw sugar adds a rustic texture.’, ‘Store sugared cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Sugared cranberries, holiday garnish, festive recipe, easy dessert, cranberry recipe