Sparkling Christmas Berries

Cranberries... What does one actually do with Cranberries? Have you ever eaten a plain, raw cranberry? So gross. But then when they're cooked, they explode and you end up with super dense cranberry soup. So how do you take advantage of the infamous holiday berry?

I'll tell you how. 

Soak them, coat them and make those babies sparkle! 

It's such an easy process, but it does involve a "waiting period" so this is a recipe you'll have to plan ahead of time. 

Here's what you need: 

1 bag fresh cranberries

2 Cups+ 1/2 Cup Granulated Sugar

2 Cups Water

1/4 Cup 10x sugar

How to make them:

1. Combine 2 cups sugar and water in a sauce pan. Heat the mixture and stir frequently to dissolve the sugar into the water (it's not necessary to boil it)

2. Pour the cranberries into a bowl or jar with a lid. 

3. Pour the water/sugar mixture over the cranberries. (If you let the mixture boil, allow it to cool 5-10 minutes before pouring over the berries to prevent the berries from popping.)

4. Cover the berries and water mixture, refrigerate and allow them to soak overnight (12 hours or longer if possible)

5. Drain the liquid off the berries. 

6. Spread paper towels over a cookie sheet and pour the berries onto the towels. Allow the berries to dry for an hour. 

7. Pour the berries into a dry bowl and pour the 1/2 granulated sugar and 10x sugar over them.

8. Stir to coat the berries (add more granulated sugar if needed).

9. Use a slotted spoon to place the berries into the serving container of your choice. 

10. Keep refrigerated until time for service to maintain freshness

As a side note: You can also get even more festive with the presentation and use red sugar crystal sprinkles or a combination of the sprinkles with granulated sugar. 

Enjoy!!