Sparkling Sugared Cranberries

Recipe Introduction: Level Up Your Holiday Game

Alright, picture this. You're hosting Christmas, right? But how do you really wow your guests? Honestly, a holiday garnish can make all the difference.

These sparkling sugared cranberries are where it’s at. They are sweet, tart, and oh-so-festive.

Blimey, where would we be without a good list to elevate our holiday game? These sugared cranberries aren't just any garnish. These delightful little gems add that wow factor.

Sweet & Sparkly: A Berry Good Holiday Garnish Recipe

This holiday garnish recipe hails from good old home style cooking. It's a simple way to add a touch of magic.

It elevates anything from cakes to cocktails. It is easy peasy to whip up. This recipe takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, including drying time.

You'll end up with roughly 2 cups of these beauties.

Health & Happiness

Cranberries are packed with antioxidants. It makes these treats a slightly healthier indulgence. Perfect for jazzing up your Christmas appetizers or as edible holiday decorations.

These sugary delights are the secret weapon for any holiday cheese board ideas.

What Makes These Cranberries Special

These aren’t your average shop bought sweets. Making these yourself allows you to control the sweetness and even add your own unique flavor.

Forget generic, let's get cracking on these holiday garnish . It’s like a little homemade Christmas gift, edible and oh-so-thoughtful.

Sugared cranberries for the win!.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!

Blimey, where would we be without a good list? Right then, let's get cracking on these holiday garnish ! Sugared cranberries are where it's at. They bring serious festive vibes.

Main Ingredients: The Cranberry Crew

• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (US) or 200g (Metric). This is your best friend. You need it twice!
• Water: 1 cup (US) or 240ml (Metric) - for that lush simple syrup.
• Fresh Cranberries: 12 ounces (US) or 340g (Metric). About 3 cups . Look for plump, firm ones. The squishy ones are not wanted here.

Honestly, quality cranberries make all the difference. Get the best you can find.

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

This recipe is pretty straightforward. But let's elevate it. Add a cinnamon stick or orange zest to the simple syrup. It creates a festive warmth.

Want to sub? Try a splash of orange extract in the syrup. Vanilla extract? Yes, please! These edible holiday decorations taste even better with a personal touch.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple!

• A small saucepan . Nothing fancy!
• A slotted spoon . Super handy for fishing out those cranberries.
• A wire rack .
• A baking sheet lined with parchment paper .

Don't have a wire rack? Use a plate, it will dry slower but that's okay! For a simple substitute for a slotted spoon you could use a normal spoon or fork.

I once tried to make these without parchment paper. Oh my gosh, what a disaster! The cranberries stuck to everything . Learn from my mistakes.

This is a smashing recipe for homemade Christmas gifts edible . They're also perfect for Christmas appetizers or even as a cranberry cocktail garnish .

You can even build holiday cheese board ideas with these in mind. It's all about adding festive touches and a holiday garnish is always a good shout.

Winter cocktails garnish is also amazing!

Okay, so you know what? These sugared cranberries aren't just food. They're like edible Christmas tree decorations.

Let's Get Cracking: Sparkling Sugared Cranberries

Okay, right then, let's get cracking on these holiday garnish ! I am so excited to share this recipe. We're making sparkling sugared cranberries .

These are perfect for festive cake decorations , a stunning cranberry cocktail garnish , or as edible holiday decorations themselves.

Blimey, where would we be without a good list! Think of all the amazing holiday cheese board ideas you can create.

It's even a sweet little homemade Christmas gifts edible . You can serve these with Christmas appetizers

Honestly, these little jewels are easier than you think! They look gorgeous and taste amazing. It's the perfect winter cocktails garnish or a holiday garnish . Let's do this!

Prep Like a Pro

First, let's get our mise en place sorted. This is the French term that means "everything in its place." Measure out 1 cup (200g) of granulated sugar and 1 cup (240ml) of water for the syrup.

Grab 12 ounces (340g) of fresh cranberries . You also need 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar for coating. Line a baking sheet with parchment.

Trust me , you'll thank me later for the parchment paper tip. It makes cleanup a breeze.

Time saving tip: Measure everything out before you start. Seriously, it'll make the whole process smoother.

step-by-step to Holiday Garnish Heaven

1. Syrup Time: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Simmer it.
2. Cranberry Bath: Gently fold the cranberries into the syrup. Make sure they are coated.
3. Drain the Berries: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cranberries to your prepared baking sheet.
4. Sugar, Sugar: Sprinkle them generously with more sugar. Make sure they are fully covered.
5. Patience is a Virtue: Let them dry for at least 2 hours . This is the hardest part! The sugar should be dry to the touch.

Pro Tips and Tricks

Pro Tip 1: For an extra touch, add a cinnamon stick to the simple syrup! Adds a lovely warmth.

Pro Tip 2: Avoid over crowding the pan when coating. Work in batches if needed!

Common mistake: Not letting them dry completely . They will be sticky. Avoid this at all costs! Store in an airtight container. They last for about 3 days at room temperature.

These aren't just candied fruit for Christmas , they're a statement. So get your apron on and enjoy! They will become your best a holiday garnish recipe and a perfect project to prepare something delicious for family and friends

Now, go forth and make some magic! Cheers!

Recipe Notes

Okay, right then, let's get cracking on these holiday garnish notes! This section is packed with ways to make your sugared cranberries shine. Blimey, where would we be without a good list!

Plating Like a Pro

Want to seriously impress? Arrange your festive cake decorations with an eye for detail. Think about colour contrast. Maybe place the bright red cranberries against a white buttercream frosting.

They also look amazing threaded onto rosemary sprigs. It's like edible art, innit?

These glistening beauties are not just for cakes, you know? Try skewering a few for cranberry cocktail garnish . They instantly dress up any drink.

Imagine them perched on the rim of a winter gin and tonic. Pure class! Or just artfully arrange them on holiday cheese board ideas - I can see them pairing beautifully with a creamy brie.

Storing Your Sparkly Gems

So, you've made a mountain of sugared cranberries. What now? For refrigeration, pop them in an airtight container. They'll keep for up to 3 days.

The fridge can make them a little sticky, honestly. Best to serve them closer to room temperature if you can.

Freezing isn't ideal. The sugar coating can get a bit soggy when thawed. But if you must freeze, do it in a single layer on a baking sheet first.

Then, transfer them to a freezer bag.

To reheat? Erm, don't. They are best served as they are. If they've gone a bit sticky after being in the fridge, just roll them in a little more sugar.

Job's a good'un!

Remixing the Recipe

Fancy a twist? Add a splash of orange zest to the simple syrup. It gives a lovely citrusy zing. You could also experiment with different sugars.

Demerara sugar adds a lovely caramel note, but I have not personally tried this.

If you're after a lower sugar version, try a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener for the simple syrup. I haven't personally tested this. Let me know how it goes.

Nutrition Nitty Gritty

Right, let's talk numbers. A small handful (about 1/4 cup) clocks in at roughly 100 calories. They're pretty much pure sugar, but hey, it's Christmas. Live a little!

The main benefit? They look absolutely stunning! They are also a fun activity for a cold afternoon. Plus, the cranberries do contain vitamin C.

Final Thoughts:

Making these sugared cranberries is easier than you think. Honestly, if I can do it, anyone can. So, get yourself some cranberries and get creative.

These edible holiday decorations are guaranteed to bring a bit of sparkle to your festive season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these sugared cranberries, a delightful holiday garnish, ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it's best to make them a day or two in advance. This ensures the sugar coating has ample time to harden completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, and they'll be ready to add some festive sparkle whenever you need them.

Just don't store them in the fridge, or they'll get sticky.

My sugared cranberries are still sticky after drying. What did I do wrong?

No worries, this happens! It usually means they didn't dry long enough, or there was too much moisture. Make sure to arrange the cranberries in a single layer on the baking sheet. You can pop them in a very low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) for about 30 minutes to help them dry out more effectively.

Alternatively, giving them another generous dusting of sugar can help absorb any excess moisture, a bit like adding flour to a too-wet dough.

Are there any fun variations I can try with this holiday garnish recipe?

Oh, plenty! For a touch of warmth, infuse the simple syrup with a cinnamon stick or a star anise. For a more herbal note, add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme. You could also add some orange zest to give it a citrusy edge! Get creative and experiment - it's all part of the fun, innit?

Can I use frozen cranberries for this sugared cranberry recipe?

While fresh cranberries are ideal, you can use frozen in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before coating them in the simple syrup. This will help remove excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving that beautiful, dry sugar coating.

Frozen cranberries tend to be a bit more delicate, so handle them gently.

Are sugared cranberries healthy? What about the sugar content?

Let's be honest, they're more of a treat than a health food! Sugared cranberries are fairly high in sugar, so enjoy them in moderation a little goes a long way in adding festive flair. Consider this a "sometimes food".

You can reduce the sugar content by using a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener in the simple syrup, however I have not personally tried this method.