Inspired by Sally’s post on how to make sugared cranberries, I decided to try making them myself. These festive treats are perfect for decorating desserts, garnishing drinks, or enjoying as a sweet snack. With a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, this easy recipe, adds a delightful sparkle to any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cups granulated sugar for syrup
- 3 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed and dried
- 1 cup granulated sugar for coating
Instructions on How to Make Sugared Cranberries:
Prepare the Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar fully dissolves. Do not let the mixture boil; you want a simple syrup, not caramel.
Coat the Cranberries:Add the cranberries to the pan and let them coat in the syrup. Remove from heat, then keep stirring for another 1-2 minutes.
Drain and Dry: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries to a baking sheet. Let the cranberries dry for about an hour, so they become slightly tacky to the touch.
Sugar Coat the Cranberries: Place 1 cup of granulated sugar in a shallow dish. Roll the sticky cranberries in the sugar until fully coated, working in small batches if necessary.
Set and Serve:
Transfer the sugar-coated cranberries to a bowl. Enjoy them as they are, or use as a garnish!
5 Tips to Make Your Sugared Cranberries Even Better:
- Use superfine sugar: It coats the cranberries more evenly and creates a finer, sparkly finish.
- Dry cranberries thoroughly: After soaking, let them dry for a few minutes before sugaring to ensure the sugar sticks better.
- Add a flavor twist: Mix a little cinnamon or vanilla into the sugar for a flavored touch.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the sugared cranberries to help them set, making them last longer and look even more appealing.
- Use a light hand with the sugar: Coat the cranberries gently to avoid excess sugar clumping.
Try these next:
Pin this recipe for later:
How to make Sugared Cranberries
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cups granulated sugar for syrup
- 3 cups fresh cranberries rinsed and dried
- 1 cup granulated sugar for coating
Instructions
Prepare the Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar fully dissolves.
Coat the Cranberries:
- Add the cranberries to the pan and let them coat in the syrup. Remove from heat, then keep stirring for another 1-2 minutes.
Drain and Dry:
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries to a baking sheet. Let the cranberries dry for about an hour, so they become slightly tacky to the touch.
Sugar Coat the Cranberries:
- Place 1 cup of granulated sugar in a shallow dish. Roll the sticky cranberries in the sugar until fully coated, working in small batches if necessary.
Set and Serve:
- Transfer the sugar-coated cranberries to a bowl. Enjoy them as they are, or use as a garnish!
I’ve made these before and I’m doing it again!!! They are truly a treating look AMAZING in your display on Thanksgiving!!!
Hi Kara! Aww thank you!! I’m so glad you’re making them again — that totally made my day. 😄 And I love that they looked great on your Thanksgiving table!