Add a pop of festive flavor and a touch of sparkle to your holiday table with these Maple Sugared Cranberries! They’re a perfect blend of tart and sweet, coated with a crunchy maple-infused sugar crust. Whether you’re using them to garnish cocktails, decorate desserts, or snack on their own, these jeweled cranberries are a seasonal must-have.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Simple Yet Stunning
This recipe is easy to make but delivers a wow factor, elevating your holiday treats effortlessly.
2. Sweet-Tart Perfection
The tangy cranberries balance beautifully with the sweetness of maple and brown sugar for an irresistible flavor combination.
3. Versatile Uses
Sugared cranberries are perfect as edible decorations, cocktail garnishes, or even a quick snack for festive gatherings.
Creative Ways to Customize Maple Sugared Cranberries
Looking for ways to add a personal twist to your Maple Sugared Cranberries? Here are some fun ideas to take them to the next level:
- Glittery Cranberries: Add a sprinkle of edible glitter or colored sanding sugar to the final sugar coating for a sparkling, festive look.
- Chocolate-Dipped Cranberries: Once the sugared cranberries are dry, dip them halfway in melted dark or white chocolate for a decadent treat.
- Herbal Infusion: Infuse the sugar water with fresh rosemary, thyme, or mint for a subtle, aromatic flavor boost.
- Spiked Syrup: Add a splash of brandy, bourbon, or orange liqueur to the sugar water for an adult-friendly twist.
Pro Tips for Maple Sugared Cranberries
- Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries work best as they hold their shape and color beautifully during the sugaring process.
- Save the Syrup: The leftover sugar water can be repurposed as a base for cocktails, mocktails, or even drizzling over pancakes or waffles.
- Even Coating: Toss the cranberries in small batches to ensure every berry gets evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
- Proper Drying: Let the cranberries dry completely for the sugar to form a firm crust that won’t stick to your fingers.
How to Use Maple Sugared Cranberries
- Cocktail Garnishes: Skewer a few cranberries on a cocktail pick and use as a garnish for holiday drinks like cranberry mimosas or spiced rum punch.
- Dessert Toppings: Scatter sugared cranberries over cakes, pies, or cheesecakes for a festive touch.
- Holiday Centerpiece: Fill a glass bowl or vase with sugared cranberries as an elegant table centerpiece.
- Charcuterie Boards: Add a handful to your cheese and charcuterie boards for a pop of sweetness and color.
- Snack Time: Enjoy them straight from the container as a guilt-free holiday treat!
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store sugared cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Refrigeration: If your home is warm or humid, store them in the fridge to maintain their sugar coating.
Variations to Try
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the sugar mixture for a citrusy flair.
- Spiced Sugar: Mix cinnamon or nutmeg into the sugar coating for a warm, spiced touch.
- Vanilla Infusion: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the sugar water for a hint of creamy sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries?
It’s best to use fresh cranberries, as frozen ones may release too much moisture and make it harder for the sugar to stick.
How do I keep the sugar from clumping?
Ensure the cranberries are well-drained before tossing them in the sugar mixture to prevent excess moisture.
Can I use dark brown sugar?
Yes! Dark brown sugar will give a deeper molasses flavor, which pairs beautifully with the maple syrup.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
These Maple Sugared Cranberries combine the beauty of simplicity with a touch of elegance, making them perfect for all your holiday celebrations. Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, they’re bound to become a seasonal favorite year after year.
Looking for more festive recipes? Try these next:
- Cranberry Orange Pound Cake
- Maple Glazed Pecans
- Spiced Apple Cider Sangria
Let us know how you used your sugared cranberries! Share your photos and feedback in the comments or tag us on Pinterest. 🍂🍒
Maple Sugared Cranberries
Ingredients
Method
- Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any stems.
- In a saucepan, combine maple syrup and water. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the cranberries. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until they start to pop.
- Remove from heat and drain the cranberries, saving the syrup for later use.
- Toss the drained cranberries in granulated sugar evenly.
- Spread the sugared cranberries on a baking sheet and let them dry for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Coat with additional options like edible glitter, or dip in chocolate if desired.
