Candied Cranberry Sugar Snack Recipe

Are you looking for a festive and delicious treat to enjoy during the holiday season? Look no further than this delightful Candied Cranberry Sugar Snack recipe. Bursting with sweet and tangy flavors, these candied cranberries are the perfect balance of tart and sugary goodness. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply craving a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds.

During my years as a pastry chef, I have always been drawn to the vibrant colors and flavors of cranberries. Their versatility in both sweet and savory dishes never fails to impress me. When the holiday season approaches, I love incorporating cranberries into my recipes to add a festive touch. Recently, I decided to experiment with creating a simple yet delightful snack using candied cranberries, and the results were nothing short of amazing. Let me share this recipe with you!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• Extra sugar for coating

Science Notes: The sugar coating helps to preserve the cranberries and gives them a crunchy texture. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and add a burst of flavor to the snack.

Substitution: For a healthier option, you can use coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Rinse the fresh cranberries and pat them dry with a paper towel.

2. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water and bring to a boil.

3. Add the cranberries to the boiling sugar mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes until they start to pop.

4. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cranberries from the syrup and let them cool on a wire rack.

5. Once the cranberries are cool to the touch, roll them in extra sugar until coated.

6. Place the candied cranberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to dry for at least 1 hour.

Expert Tips

• For an extra festive touch, you can dust the candied cranberries with edible glitter or gold luster dust.
• If the sugar coating feels too sticky, you can toss the cranberries in powdered sugar instead.

Storage & Substitutions

You can store the candied cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To freeze them, place the cranberries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply let them come to room temperature before serving.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating them with sugar.

How long will the candied cranberries stay fresh?

If stored properly in an airtight container, the candied cranberries can stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Can I use a different type of berry for this recipe?

While cranberries work best for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of berries like blueberries or raspberries.

How do I prevent the cranberries from becoming too sticky?

Make sure to let the cranberries dry completely on the parchment paper before storing them. This will help the sugar coating to set and prevent stickiness.

Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar coating?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices to enhance the flavor profile of the candied cranberries.

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