Candied Cranberries
Sweet and tart candied cranberries with a glossy coating, perfect for holiday treats, garnishes, or snacking. Vibrant and festive, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash cranberries and spread over the bottom of a shallow baking dish.
- Sprinkle with sugar and cover tightly.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more complex flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the cranberries before baking. If you're looking for a lower-sugar option, you can substitute half of the sugar with honey or agave syrup. Ensure to stir the cranberries every 20 minutes for even coating and caramelization. This recipe can also be used as a topping for desserts like the No Crust Peach Pie.
Serving Suggestions
These candied cranberries make a delightful addition to holiday dishes, complementing savory options like Sweet Potato Yams or served alongside a cheese platter. They can also be used as a garnish for cocktails, adding a festive touch to beverages. For a beautiful presentation, serve them in a glass bowl on a bed of ice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candied cranberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you want to reheat them, do so gently in the oven at a low temperature to maintain their texture. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Cranberries contains roughly 426 calories, with 1g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before proceeding with the recipe. This will help achieve the right texture and prevent excess moisture from affecting the sugar coating.
How do I make these cranberries less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, consider cutting down the sugar by one-third or incorporating tangy elements like lemon juice. You could also mix in some chopped nuts or spices to balance the sweetness and add depth to the flavor.
What other recipes can I use these cranberries in?
Candied cranberries can be a versatile ingredient; try incorporating them into salads, like a festive winter salad with greens and nuts. They also pair well with desserts or breakfast dishes, making them a great addition to pancakes or yogurt parfaits.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).