Candied Cranberries

Candied Cranberries Recipe - Sweet and Tangy Treat from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Candied cranberries are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed on their own or used as a garnish for various dishes. The sweet and tart flavor of the cranberries, combined with the sugary coating, creates a delicious and festive snack.

History

Candied cranberries have been a popular holiday treat for many years. The process of candying fruit dates back to ancient times, when it was used as a way to preserve fruit and create sweet treats. Cranberries, with their vibrant color and tart flavor, make the perfect candidate for candying.

Ingredients

Recipe default

1 cup of sugar
2 tbsp of water
0.5 cup of cranberries

How to prepare

In a heavy small saucepan, cook 0.5 cup of sugar and 2 tbsp of water over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Transfer the mixture to the top of a double boiler.
Add the cranberries to the mixture.
Cover the berry mixture and place it over simmering water.
Cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the mixture from the heat.
Let the cranberry mixture stand at room temperature overnight.
Place the remaining 0.5 cup of sugar on a plate.
Drain the cranberries well.
Add the drained cranberries to the sugar and turn them to coat.
Let the cranberries dry for at least 30 minutes.
This can be prepared 3 days ahead.
Cover and refrigerate.
This recipe makes about 0.5 cup of cranberries.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar coating for a warm and spicy flavor.
Use orange juice or zest in place of water for a citrusy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the sugar and water mixture over low heat to prevent burning.

- Stir the cranberries occasionally while cooking to ensure they are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.

- Let the cranberries dry completely before storing to prevent them from sticking together.

Serving Suggestions

Candied cranberries can be enjoyed on their own as a snack, or used as a garnish for desserts, salads, or cocktails.

Cooking Techniques

Candying cranberries involves simmering them in a sugar syrup until they are coated and slightly dried.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cranberries, you can try this recipe with other fruits such as cherries or blueberries.

Make Ahead Tips

Candied cranberries can be prepared up to 3 days ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.

Presentation Ideas

Serve candied cranberries in a small bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or citrus zest.

Pairing Recommendations

Candied cranberries pair well with cheese, nuts, and dark chocolate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store candied cranberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They do not need to be reheated before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of candied cranberries contains approximately 110 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of candied cranberries contains approximately 27 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Candied cranberries are fat-free.

Proteins

Candied cranberries do not contain any protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cranberries are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Alergens

Candied cranberries may contain traces of nuts if prepared in a facility that processes nuts.

Summary

Candied cranberries are a sweet and tart treat that is relatively low in calories and fat. They are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Summary

Candied cranberries are a delicious and festive treat that can be enjoyed on their own or used to add a sweet and tart flavor to a variety of dishes. With their vibrant color and sweet coating, they are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was given to me by an old friend of mine, Mrs. Jenkins, who had learned it from her own grandmother many years ago. The recipe for candied cranberries was a family heirloom, passed down from generation to generation, and I was honored that Mrs. Jenkins chose to share it with me.

I remember the day she handed me the recipe card, yellowed with age and stained with splatters of sugar and cranberry juice. She had a twinkle in her eye as she told me about the tradition of making these sweet treats every holiday season. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet syrup was a perfect balance of flavors, she explained, and once you had a taste, you would be hooked for life.

I couldn't wait to try the recipe for myself. I gathered all the necessary ingredients - fresh cranberries, sugar, water, and a touch of cinnamon - and set to work in my kitchen. As I stirred the bubbling pot of cranberries on the stove, the sweet aroma filled the room and brought back memories of holidays past. Mrs. Jenkins had been right - there was something magical about this recipe.

After the cranberries had simmered and the syrup had thickened, I carefully poured them onto a baking sheet to cool. As I watched them harden into shiny, jewel-like candies, I knew I had created something special. I couldn't wait to share them with my family and friends.

The first time I served the candied cranberries at a holiday gathering, they were met with rave reviews. The tartness of the cranberries was perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the syrup, and the hint of cinnamon added a warm, comforting flavor. I was proud to have mastered the recipe and was grateful to Mrs. Jenkins for sharing it with me.

Over the years, I have continued to make the candied cranberries every holiday season. They have become a beloved tradition in my family, just as they were in Mrs. Jenkins' family. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, and each time I make a batch, I am reminded of the special bond that food can create between people.

As I grow older, I find comfort in knowing that the recipe for candied cranberries will live on long after I am gone. It is a small piece of my legacy, a way to connect with future generations through a shared love of cooking and tradition. I am grateful for the gift of this recipe and the memories it holds, and I hope that others will continue to enjoy it for years to come.