Description
Glittering sugar-coated cranberries make this simple holiday treat irresistible. Quick preparation and elegant presentation ensure these sparkling gems will delight guests at winter gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups (200 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar (for syrup)
- 1 cup (200 ml) water
- ½ cup (100 g) superfine sugar or granulated sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Syrup Creation: Dissolve granulated sugar in water over gentle heat, stirring until smooth and uniform. Remove from heat before boiling and allow to cool slightly, creating a sweet liquid foundation.
- Berry Infusion: Immerse fresh cranberries completely in the warm syrup, ensuring thorough coating. Let berries soak for 5-10 minutes to absorb the sugary essence, developing a glossy exterior.
- Drying Process: Transfer syrup-coated cranberries onto a wire rack positioned over a baking sheet using a slotted spoon. Allow berries to air-dry, developing a slightly sticky surface for approximately 1-2 hours or overnight.
- Sugar Crystallization: Pour superfine sugar into a shallow dish. Roll each sticky cranberry through the sugar, achieving a comprehensive and even crystalline coating that transforms the fruit into sparkling, jewel-like confections.
- Final Preparation: Place sugar-encrusted cranberries back on the wire rack, allowing them to set for an additional hour. This step solidifies the glistening sugar shell, creating elegant garnishes that can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days at room temperature.
Notes
- Syrup Consistency Matters: Avoid boiling the sugar syrup to prevent crystallization, which can make the coating grainy and uneven.
- Gentle Berry Handling: Use a soft, slotted spoon when transferring cranberries to prevent bruising or damaging their delicate skin.
- Sugar Coating Technique: Roll cranberries in superfine sugar while they’re still slightly sticky to ensure a perfect, even crystal coverage.
- Storage Wisdom: Keep sugared cranberries in a single layer to maintain their crisp sugar shell and prevent clumping or moisture buildup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 hours
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg