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Sugared Cranberries and Rosemary Recipe

4.7 from 87 reviews

This Sugared Cranberries and Rosemary recipe creates a beautiful, festive garnish perfect for holiday drinks, desserts, or cheese boards. Fresh cranberries or fragrant rosemary sprigs are lightly coated in a simple sugar syrup, then rolled in granulated sugar to provide a sparkling, sweet contrast to their natural tartness or herbal aroma. The easy stovetop method ensures a quick finish with elegant results, ideal for adding a touch of seasonal charm to any celebration.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sugar Syrup

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water

For the Coating

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

Main Ingredient Options

  • 3 cups fresh cranberries
  • OR
  • 25 to 30 sprigs fresh rosemary, washed and dried thoroughly

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a medium-sized skillet, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Let boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat and allow to cool for 15 minutes.
  2. Coat the Cranberries or Rosemary: Add the fresh cranberries or rosemary sprigs into the cooled sugar syrup. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Toss them quickly in the syrup until fully coated, but do not leave them in for more than 10 to 20 seconds to prevent bursting or wilting.
  3. Drain and Dry: Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the coated cranberries or rosemary and transfer them to a wire rack, arranging them in a single layer with space for air circulation. Let them dry at room temperature for 1 hour.
  4. Coat with Granulated Sugar: Pour the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar into a medium bowl. Toss the dried cranberries or rosemary in the sugar to thoroughly coat them with a sparkling sweet layer.
  5. Serve or Store: Once coated, the sugared cranberries or rosemary sprigs are ready to use as garnish for drinks, desserts, or holiday decorations. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for best texture.

Notes

  • Ensure the rosemary sprigs are completely dry before dipping to prevent clumping of sugar.
  • Use fresh, firm cranberries for the best texture and appearance.
  • These sugared garnishes can be made a few hours ahead but are best fresh.
  • If cranberries burst, they can still be used as a garnish, adding a lovely burst of color and sweetness.
  • Leftover sugared rosemary can be used to flavor sparkling water or cocktails.

Keywords: sugared cranberries, sugared rosemary, holiday garnish, festive garnish, cranberry decoration, rosemary decoration, sugared herbs, holiday drinks garnish