Okay, friend, come on in, grab a mug of something warm, and let’s chat! Today, we’re making something that just screams “holiday magic”: 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries. Honestly, just saying the name makes me smile.
I remember the first time I made these. It was a few years back, and I was hosting Christmas dinner for the first time. I was so stressed! Everything had to be perfect, you know? I had this elaborate menu planned, and then, at the last minute, I realized I needed something festive to garnish the dessert. Panic set in! I frantically searched online and stumbled upon a recipe for 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries. I was skeptical – could something so simple really be any good? But I was desperate, so I gave it a whirl. And oh my goodness! They were a revelation. Tart, sweet, sparkly… they looked like tiny jewels! The best part? They were unbelievably easy to make. That first batch of 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries saved my sanity that Christmas and became a beloved tradition.
Now, I make them every year, not just for Christmas but for Thanksgiving too. My kids love popping them like candy (I have to hide them sometimes!), and they add such a pretty touch to everything from cakes to cheese boards. There was this one time, though, I tried to be clever and used honey instead of sugar for the coating. Big mistake! They ended up sticky and a bit…well, let’s just say the texture wasn’t ideal. Lesson learned: sometimes, simple is best. And with these 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries, simple is definitely spectacular.
What I love most about this 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries recipe is how forgiving it is. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to add a little something special to a meal, or for those moments when you need a last-minute holiday treat. Plus, it’s a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. They love rolling the cranberries in the sugar! I actually first discovered the magic of these little gems through Candied cranberries have just 3 ingredients and will make any …. It really opened my eyes.
My cooking philosophy is all about creating delicious, nourishing food that brings people together. I believe that cooking should be joyful and accessible, not stressful. And these 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries embody that perfectly. They’re a little bit of magic that anyone can create, no matter their cooking skills.
So, are you ready to make some magic? Let’s get started! You won’t believe how easy it is to make these delicious 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries. I promise, you’ll be hooked! And if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my other holiday recipes on Delilita.
What You’ll Need for This 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries
Alright, let’s gather our supplies. The beauty of this recipe is right there in the name: it only takes three ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries:
- 12 ounces Fresh Cranberries: I always use fresh cranberries for my 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries. Frozen cranberries tend to release too much moisture and can make the coating a bit soggy. Plus, the fresh ones just look so vibrant and festive!
- 1 cup Water: Just plain old water. It helps the sugar adhere to the cranberries.
- 2 cups Granulated Sugar: I prefer granulated sugar for its clean, crisp sweetness. You’ll use half of this to make a simple syrup and the other half for coating the cranberries.
That’s it! Can you believe it? Three simple ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating something truly special.
When making 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries, I always try to find the freshest cranberries possible. Look for berries that are firm, plump, and have a deep red color. You can usually find good quality cranberries at most grocery stores during the holiday season. If you’re lucky enough to live near a cranberry bog, even better!
Here’s a 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries trick I learned: before you start, give your cranberries a good rinse and pick out any that are soft or damaged. This will ensure that your candied cranberries are perfectly uniform and beautiful.
For busy families making 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries, ingredient prep is key. I like to wash and dry the cranberries ahead of time, so they’re ready to go when I have a few minutes to spare. You can also pre-measure the sugar and water, so everything is set for a quick and easy cooking session.
As for cost-saving tips for 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries ingredients, keep an eye out for sales on cranberries during the holiday season. You can often find them at a discounted price, especially if you buy in bulk. Sugar is also a pantry staple that’s usually pretty affordable.
And finally, for storage tips for leftover 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries ingredients (although you probably won’t have any leftover sugar!), make sure to store your fresh cranberries in the refrigerator. They’ll last for several weeks if stored properly. I usually keep them in their original packaging or in an airtight container. Speaking of containers, make sure you have something to display the finished product. I like to use a simple glass bowl.
Let’s Make This 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries Together
Okay, now for the fun part! Let’s make these amazing 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries together. Don’t worry, it’s super easy. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying these little gems in no time.
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the syrup is clear, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
- Soak the Cranberries: Add the cranberries to the warm simple syrup. Make sure all the cranberries are submerged. Let them soak for at least an hour. This step is crucial because it allows the cranberries to absorb the sweetness and become nice and plump. I learned the hard way with 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries that skipping this step results in tart, less juicy cranberries. Sometimes I even let them soak overnight in the fridge for an extra-sweet treat!
- Drain the Cranberries: After soaking, drain the cranberries thoroughly in a colander. This is important because you want to remove any excess moisture before coating them in sugar. I usually give them a gentle shake to remove any clinging syrup.
- Coat in Sugar: Spread the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar on a plate or in a shallow dish. Working in batches, roll the drained cranberries in the sugar, making sure they’re completely coated. I like to use a fork or spoon to toss them around in the sugar, so my fingers don’t get too sticky. Don’t worry if your 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries aren’t perfectly coated – the slightly uneven coating adds to their rustic charm.
- Dry the Cranberries: Place the sugar-coated cranberries on a wire rack to dry. This is important because it allows the sugar coating to harden and creates that beautiful, sparkly finish. In my kitchen, 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries usually takes about 1-2 hours to dry completely. But it can depend on the humidity in your kitchen. I usually pop mine in the fridge to speed up the drying process if I’m short on time.
- Enjoy! Once the sugar coating is dry and hardened, your 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. But let’s be honest, they probably won’t last that long!
While the 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries are soaking, I usually catch up on some reading or do a quick tidy-up in the kitchen. It’s a great way to make the most of that downtime. You know what I also do? Watch videos online, such as Sugared Cranberries (easy w/ video!) | Vanilla And Bean. It’s a great way to feel confident that you’re doing it right.
Your 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries should smell like a sweet, tangy cranberry dream. It’s such a comforting and festive aroma!
Here’s a family-tested 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries shortcut: if you’re really short on time, you can skip the soaking step and just toss the fresh cranberries in the simple syrup. However, the flavor and texture won’t be quite as good. But hey, sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do!
How I Love to Serve This 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries
Okay, so you’ve made these beautiful 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries, now what? Well, the possibilities are endless! My family loves this 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries when I use them as a garnish for our holiday desserts. They add such a festive touch to cakes, pies, and even just a simple bowl of whipped cream. The tartness of the cranberries balances out the sweetness of the desserts perfectly.
My go-to side dishes that pair with 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries are usually something savory and rich. For example, I love serving them alongside a creamy brie cheese with crackers. The contrast of flavors and textures is simply divine! They also work well with roasted meats, like turkey or ham, adding a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
This 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other holiday gathering. They’re also great for adding a touch of sparkle to everyday meals. I sometimes sprinkle them on top of my morning yogurt or oatmeal for a little extra sweetness and tang.
As for 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries presentation tips I’ve discovered, I like to arrange them in a pretty glass bowl or on a decorative platter. You can also thread them onto skewers to create festive cranberry skewers. Another fun idea is to use them to decorate cupcakes or cookies. Get creative and have fun with it!
If you have extra 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries, you can use them to make a delicious cranberry sauce or chutney. They also make a great addition to homemade granola or trail mix. Or, you can simply pop them in your mouth as a sweet and tangy snack. Be warned, though, they’re addictive! I’m working on using these easy cranberry recipe more.
I’ve tried a few seasonal 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries variations. For example, I’ve added a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar coating for a warm, spicy flavor. I’ve also experimented with using different types of sugar, like brown sugar or powdered sugar. Each variation adds a unique twist to this classic treat.
Friends always ask for this 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries recipe when they try them at my house. They’re always amazed at how easy they are to make and how beautiful they look. It’s a recipe that I’m always happy to share! They have also become a great cranberry Christmas garnish.
Your 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries Questions Answered
Okay, let’s dive into some common questions I get about making 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries. I’ve gathered these from my family, friends, and even some of my blog readers. Hopefully, these answers will help you avoid some of the pitfalls I’ve encountered along the way!
- My sugar coating is melting. What am I doing wrong? This usually happens when the cranberries are not dry enough before being coated in sugar. Make sure you drain them thoroughly after soaking and allow them to dry completely on a wire rack. Also, avoid making them on a very humid day, as the moisture in the air can cause the sugar to melt. You know what I do when my 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries melt? I pop them in the fridge for a bit to help the sugar harden.
- Can I use frozen cranberries? While you can use frozen cranberries, they tend to release more moisture than fresh cranberries, which can make the sugar coating soggy. If you do use frozen cranberries, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before soaking them in the simple syrup.
- How long do these last? 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries will last for up to a week if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. However, they’re best enjoyed within a few days, as the sugar coating can start to soften over time.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can definitely make these ahead of time! In fact, I often make them a day or two before I need them. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to use them.
- My cranberries are too tart. How can I make them sweeter? If your cranberries are too tart, you can increase the amount of sugar in the simple syrup. You can also let the cranberries soak in the syrup for a longer period of time. My family prefers them on the sweeter side, so I always add a little extra sugar.
- Can I use a different type of sugar? Yes, you can experiment with using different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or powdered sugar. Brown sugar will add a warm, caramel-like flavor, while powdered sugar will create a softer, more delicate coating.
- What can I do with the leftover simple syrup? Don’t throw away that leftover simple syrup! You can use it to sweeten drinks, make cocktails, or even drizzle over pancakes or waffles. It’s a delicious and versatile ingredient.
- Are these a healthy snack? While 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries are delicious, they’re not exactly a health food. They are high in sugar, so it’s best to enjoy them in moderation. However, cranberries are packed with antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients, so they’re definitely a better choice than many other sugary treats.
I’ve made so many mistakes with 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries over the years, but each mistake has taught me something new. And that’s what cooking is all about, right? Learning, experimenting, and having fun! These candied cranberries have been a true learning experience!
My Final Thoughts on This 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries
This 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of the joy and magic of the holidays. It’s a simple recipe that creates something truly beautiful and delicious. And it’s a recipe that I know I’ll be making for many years to come.
- Don’t skip the soaking step! It’s crucial for ensuring that the cranberries are sweet and juicy.
- Make sure the cranberries are completely dry before coating them in sugar. This will prevent the sugar from melting and create a beautiful, sparkly finish.
- Get creative with your presentation! These 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries are perfect for adding a touch of sparkle to any dish.
I’ve tried a few 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries variations with my family. My son loves them with a hint of cinnamon, while my daughter prefers them with a sprinkle of orange zest. My husband, on the other hand, is a purist and loves them just the way they are!
I encourage you to make this 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries your own. Experiment with different flavors and presentations. Have fun with it! This viral candied cranberries recipe, how to make them, is something that can be adapted to make it your own.
I hope that your 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries cooking experience is filled with joy, laughter, and deliciousness. I hope that you create memories that will last a lifetime. And most of all, I hope that you enjoy these little gems as much as my family and I do.
So go ahead, give it a try! You won’t be disappointed. And remember, cooking should be fun, not stressful. So relax, enjoy the process, and let your creativity shine!
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3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries
These glistening 3-Ingredient Sugared Cranberries are a festive and easy treat, perfect for snacking or garnishing your holiday desserts. With just cranberries, water, and sugar, they’re a sweet and tart delight!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups granulated sugar, divided
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or bruised berries.
- In a saucepan, combine water and 1 cup of sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the cranberries to the sugar syrup and simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the skins start to soften but the berries still hold their shape.
- Remove from heat and let the cranberries cool completely in the syrup. This will take at least 1 hour, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Drain the cranberries in a colander, discarding the syrup.
- Place the remaining 1 cup of sugar in a shallow dish. Roll the drained cranberries in the sugar until they are fully coated.
- Spread the sugared cranberries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them dry for about 1-2 hours, or until the sugar coating is firm.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
For a festive touch, use colored sanding sugar instead of granulated sugar to coat the cranberries. They make a beautiful garnish for cakes, cupcakes, or even cocktails!