As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delightful in the kitchen. That’s why I’m excited to share my Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes. This recipe is a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 20 minutes, you can create a sweet and tangy treat that adds a pop of color and flavor to any dish. Trust me, your family will love it!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes
This Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s incredibly simple, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. The sweet and tangy burst of cranberries is a delightful surprise that elevates any meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get your kids involved in the kitchen. They’ll love watching the cranberries pop and transform into a beautiful treat!
Ingredients for Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh Cranberries: These little gems are the star of the show! Their tartness balances perfectly with the sweetness of sugar.
- Granulated Sugar: This is what transforms the cranberries into a sweet treat. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
- Water: Essential for making the sugar syrup, it helps dissolve the sugar and cook the cranberries.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of this adds a warm, comforting flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cranberries.
Feel free to experiment! You can substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a different twist. Just remember, the exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article for your convenience.
How to Make Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes
Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup
To kick off your Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes, start by making the sugar syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine equal parts water and granulated sugar. Set the heat to medium and stir gently until the sugar completely dissolves. This step is crucial because it creates a sweet base for the cranberries. Keep an eye on it; you want a clear syrup, not a boiling mess! Once dissolved, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 2: Add the Cranberries
Now, it’s time to add the fresh cranberries to your syrup. Carefully pour them into the bubbling mixture. Bring everything to a boil, which is essential for cooking the cranberries evenly. The heat will help them pop and release their natural juices, creating that delightful sweet-tart flavor. This step is where the magic begins! Keep stirring gently to ensure all the cranberries are coated in that luscious syrup.
Step 3: Simmer the Cranberries
Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the cranberries cook for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice them starting to pop and soften, which is a sign they’re ready. This simmering process allows the cranberries to absorb the syrup, enhancing their flavor. Keep an eye on them; you want them tender but not mushy. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract
After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This simple addition elevates the flavor profile of your candied cranberries. The warm, sweet notes of vanilla blend beautifully with the tartness of the cranberries. It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds! Make sure to mix it well so every cranberry gets a touch of that delightful flavor.
Step 5: Cool and Dry the Cranberries
Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the cranberries to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread them out in a single layer to cool. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the syrup to dry and create a lovely glaze. This step is key for achieving that perfect candied texture. Once cooled, they’re ready to be enjoyed or stored for later. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t rush the simmering process; it’s key for popping and softening.
- Adjust the sugar to your taste; less sugar gives a tangier result.
- Let the cranberries cool completely for a better candy texture.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.
Equipment Needed for Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes
- Medium Saucepan: A sturdy pot works best; a non-stick option makes cleanup easier.
- Slotted Spoon: This helps transfer cranberries without the syrup; a regular spoon can work in a pinch.
- Baking Sheet: A rimmed sheet is ideal to catch any syrup drips; parchment paper is a must for easy removal.
Variations of Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes
- Spiced Cranberries: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar syrup for a warm, festive flavor.
- Orange Zest: Incorporate some fresh orange zest into the syrup for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Maple Sweetener: Substitute granulated sugar with maple syrup for a unique, earthy sweetness.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts after cooling for added texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cranberries for a decadent treat.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes
- Serve as a vibrant topping for vanilla ice cream or yogurt.
- Use as a garnish for holiday desserts like cakes or cheesecakes.
- Add to a fresh spinach salad with goat cheese and walnuts.
- Pair with a sparkling drink for a festive touch.
- Present in a decorative bowl for a stunning centerpiece.
FAQs about Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
While fresh cranberries are best for this Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture. They may not pop as well, but they’ll still taste delicious!
How do I store the candied cranberries?
Store your candied cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving!
Can I adjust the sweetness of the cranberries?
Absolutely! This recipe is flexible. If you prefer a less sweet treat, simply reduce the amount of sugar. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile.
What can I do with leftover syrup?
Don’t toss that syrup! It’s a sweet treasure. Use it to drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or even in your morning coffee. It adds a delightful cranberry flavor that’s hard to resist!
Are these candied cranberries suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes! This Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. Enjoy them guilt-free as a sweet treat or garnish!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes is more than just a cooking task; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to your kitchen. The vibrant colors and sweet-tart flavors can brighten any meal or gathering. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to involve your kids, making memories while you cook together. Whether you’re dressing up a dessert or adding a pop of flavor to a salad, these candied cranberries are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, and let the sweet aroma fill your home. You won’t regret it!
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Easy Candied Cranberries Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes: Delight in Quick Sweetness!
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy recipe for making sweet and tangy candied cranberries in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine water and sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the cranberries to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the cranberries pop and become tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Let the cranberries cool and dry for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- These can be used as a garnish for desserts or added to salads.
- Adjust the sugar to taste if you prefer less sweetness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Easy Candied Cranberries, Quick Cranberry Recipe, Sweet Cranberries