Cranberry jelly candy has a magical way of bringing the holiday spirit right into my kitchen. I remember my first attempt years ago, hoping to capture that perfect balance of tartness and sweetness that reminds me so much of Christmas gatherings. The thought of those jewel-toned, chewy morsels always makes me smile. I wanted to share that joy with you, and honestly, this recipe is so simple! If you’ve ever wondered how to make cranberry jelly candy, you’re in the right place. Get ready for a delightful cranberry gummy candy experience that’s almost as fun to make as it is to eat. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cranberry Jelly Candy
You’re going to adore making these cranberry jelly candies. They’re incredibly easy and deliver amazing flavor!
- Incredible Flavor: Experience the perfect balance of bright, tart cranberry candy notes with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Quick Prep Time: With only about 15 minutes of hands-on prep, you can whip these up even on a busy weeknight.
- Naturally Delicious: Made with real cranberries, these offer a delightful, wholesome sweetness far beyond artificial flavors.
- Budget-Friendly Fun: Cranberries are often affordable, especially when in season, making this a cost-effective treat.
- Family Activity: Kids love helping to blend, pour, and cut these chewy delights. It’s a fantastic way to get the whole family involved.
- Festive Appeal: Their vibrant, jewel-like color makes them perfect for holiday platters and edible gifts.
- Satisfying Texture: Enjoy the delightful chewiness that makes this sweet and tart cranberry candy so addictive.
- Versatile Treat: These homemade fruit jellies candy are perfect for snacking, dessert, or even as a decorative garnish.
Ingredients for Cranberry Jelly Candy
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful homemade fruit jellies candy. The star of the show is, of course, the cranberries themselves, offering a wonderfully natural cranberry candy flavor that’s both bright and invigorating. I usually opt for fresh cranberries when they’re in season, but frozen work just as beautifully. You’ll also need some granulated sugar, which you can totally adjust based on how tart or sweet you like your treats. We’ll use water to help cook down the berries and lemon juice for an extra zing.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries – the heart of our natural cranberry candy
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar – adjust this to your preferred sweetness level
- 1/2 cup water – to help soften the cranberries
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – adds a lovely tartness and brightens the flavor
- 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin – this is what makes them set into a chewy candy; for a vegan option, use 2 tsp agar-agar powder
- 1/4 cup cold water – for blooming the gelatin
- Optional: 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or orange zest – for a little extra aroma and flavor
- Optional: Additional sugar for coating – for that classic sparkly candy look
How to Make Cranberry Jelly Candy
Making these delightful cranberry fruit jelly sweets is surprisingly straightforward, and the results are absolutely worth it. I love how the kitchen fills with the sweet, tangy aroma as the cranberries simmer. Following these steps will guide you to creating perfect, chewy cranberry candies that are visually stunning and incredibly delicious. This recipe is a fantastic way to capture the essence of the season in a bite, and it’s a wonderful addition to any holiday treat spread or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Let’s get started on this simple cranberry chewy candy recipe!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Cranberry Base
Begin by combining 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup water in a medium saucepan. Place it over medium heat and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries start to burst and soften. You’ll see them break down and release their vibrant juices.
Step 2: Blend and Strain
Once the cranberries have softened, carefully use an immersion blender to purée the mixture right in the saucepan until it’s mostly smooth. For an extra silky texture, which I highly recommend for the best cranberry confectioneries, strain the purée through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Press down gently with a spoon to extract all that lovely liquid. Discard any solids left in the sieve.
Step 3: Bloom Gelatin
While the cranberry purée is still warm, it’s time to prepare the gelatin. In a small bowl, sprinkle 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water. Let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice it thickens and becomes jelly-like – this is called “blooming,” and it’s crucial for the gelatin to dissolve properly. For more information on gelatin, you can check out WebMD’s overview.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the strained cranberry purée to the saucepan. Stir in the 2 tablespoons lemon juice for a bright, tart note. Add the bloomed gelatin mixture to the saucepan. Gently heat the mixture over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Be careful not to let it boil, as this can weaken the gelatin’s setting power.
Step 5: Pour and Set
Now, carefully pour the warm cranberry mixture into your prepared molds. You can use silicone candy molds in fun shapes, or line a square baking pan with parchment paper. For the best results, ensure the layer is about 1/2 inch thick. Place the molds or pan in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until the mixture is firm to the touch.
Step 6: Cut and Coat
Once your cranberry jelly candy is firm, carefully unmold them if you used silicone molds. If you poured the mixture into a pan, use a sharp knife to cut it into small squares or desired shapes. For that classic, sparkling look reminiscent of cranberry sugar candy, you can gently toss the finished candies in additional granulated sugar. This also helps prevent them from sticking together.
Step 7: Store Your Candies
Proper storage keeps your homemade cranberry fruit jelly sweets fresh and delicious. Store the finished candies in an airtight container. I’ve found they keep well at room temperature for about 5 days, or you can extend their life by refrigerating them for up to 2 weeks. This is especially useful if you’re making them as part of your holiday preparations. For more on food storage, check out FoodSafety.gov’s storage charts.
Vegan Option Instructions
For a vegan version of these cranberry gummy candy delights, simply swap the unflavored gelatin for 2 teaspoons agar-agar powder. After combining the purée and lemon juice, add the agar-agar powder and bring the mixture to a gentle boil for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, before pouring into molds. Agar-agar will set at room temperature and is a fantastic plant-based alternative.
Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Jelly Candy
I’ve made these cranberry jelly candies more times than I can count, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. These little tips make a big difference in achieving that ideal texture and flavor.
- Always use fresh, plump cranberries for the best flavor and color.
- Don’t skip the straining step; it’s key for achieving that smooth, jewel-like finish.
- If using a pan instead of molds, lightly grease it or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Let the candies fully set before cutting or unmolding to avoid a sticky mess.
What’s the secret to perfect cranberry jelly candy?
The secret lies in blooming the gelatin correctly and avoiding boiling the mixture after it’s added. This ensures your cranberry gelatin candy sets up beautifully with a satisfying chew.
Can I make cranberry jelly candy ahead of time?
Absolutely! These are fantastic for making ahead. You can prepare them up to a week in advance and store them in an airtight container. This makes them perfect for holiday prep. You can find more make-ahead meal ideas on our make-ahead meals page.
How do I avoid common mistakes with cranberry jelly candy?
The biggest mistake is boiling the gelatin, which ruins its setting ability. Also, don’t rush the chilling process; patience ensures a firm set. Overcooking the cranberries can also lead to a less vibrant flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Jelly Candy
These delightful cranberry jelly candies are so versatile, you’ll find yourself reaching for them again and again. Their bright, festive flavor makes them a wonderful addition to any occasion. I love serving them alongside a cheese board; their sweet and tart profile cuts through creamy cheeses beautifully, making them excellent cranberry confectioneries for entertaining. They also make a stunning garnish for holiday desserts like cakes or pies, adding a pop of color and chewy texture. For a simple yet elegant treat, just arrange them on a festive platter alongside other holiday cookies and candies.
Nutrition Facts for Cranberry Jelly Candy
Creating these delicious cranberry jelly candies at home means you know exactly what’s going into them. Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, which is about two candies. These chewy treats are a wonderful way to enjoy a bit of festive flavor without a lot of guilt.
- Calories: 45
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 2mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Jelly Candy
Properly storing your homemade cranberry jelly candy ensures they stay fresh and delicious, whether you’re keeping them for a few days or planning for longer storage. After they’ve completely cooled, store your cranberry gummy candy in an airtight container. I usually find they keep wonderfully at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. If you want them to last longer, your refrigerator is the best place; they can last up to 2 weeks this way. For true long-term storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating isn’t usually necessary for these candies, as they are best enjoyed at room temperature or chilled. However, if you’ve frozen them and want to enjoy them sooner, simply transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Avoid microwaving them, as this can cause them to melt or become sticky.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Jelly Candy
What is cranberry jelly candy?
Cranberry jelly candy refers to chewy, fruit-based confections made primarily from cranberries, sugar, and a gelling agent like gelatin or agar-agar. They capture the vibrant, tart-sweet flavor of cranberries in a delightful, bite-sized form, often resembling small jewels.
Why use cranberries in jelly candy?
Cranberries are fantastic for jelly candy because of their natural pectin content, which aids in setting, and their wonderfully bright, tart flavor. This tartness balances the sweetness of the sugar perfectly, creating a complex and refreshing taste that artificial flavors can’t quite replicate. They also give the candies a beautiful, festive red color.
Can I make cranberry jelly candy with other fruits?
Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on the classic cranberry flavor, you can experiment with other fruits. Raspberry, cherry, or even a mix of berries can be used. You might need to adjust the sugar and liquid depending on the fruit’s natural sweetness and water content. This flexibility makes for endless variations of homemade fruit jellies candy. You can find more fruit-based recipes on our latest recipes page.
Are these cranberry gummy candy healthy?
These homemade cranberry gummy candy are made with real fruit and contain no artificial colors or flavors, which is a big plus. They offer some of the natural benefits of cranberries, like antioxidants, and are relatively low in fat. However, like most candies, they do contain sugar, so they’re best enjoyed in moderation as a festive treat rather than a health food.
Variations of Cranberry Jelly Candy You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe for these delightful cranberry fruit jelly sweets, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many fun ways to switch up the flavors and even the dietary aspects of these chewy treats. For a different twist, consider adding a splash of orange juice along with the lemon juice; the citrus combination is absolutely divine and complements the cranberry perfectly. If you’re looking for a vegan option, we’ve already detailed how to use agar-agar, ensuring everyone can enjoy these homemade delights. You could also experiment with different sweeteners, like maple syrup, though you might need to adjust the liquid content. For a truly festive touch, consider rolling your finished cranberry sugar candy in sparkling sanding sugar or even a mix of cinnamon and sugar for a warm spice note. You might also enjoy our recipes for banana bread cookies or chocolate chip cookies for other sweet treat ideas.
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Cranberry Jelly Candy: Deliciously Simple 15-Min Treat
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 40-50 candies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Create festive, tart, and sweet homemade Cranberry Jelly Candies. These chewy, jewel-toned treats capture the holiday spirit, perfect for gifting or decorating.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin (or 2 tsp agar-agar powder for vegan option)
- 1/4 cup cold water (for blooming gelatin)
- Optional: 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or orange zest
- Additional sugar for coating (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Cranberry Base: Combine cranberries, sugar, and 1/2 cup water in a saucepan. Simmer 10 minutes until berries burst and soften.
- Blend and Strain: Purée with an immersion blender and strain through a fine mesh sieve for a smooth cranberry purée.
- Bloom Gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let sit 5 minutes to bloom.
- Combine: Return purée to the saucepan. Stir in lemon juice and bloomed gelatin. Heat gently 2-3 minutes until dissolved (do not boil).
- Pour and Set: Pour mixture into silicone molds or a parchment-lined pan. Chill 2-3 hours until firm.
- Cut and Coat: If using a pan, cut into squares. Optionally roll in sugar for sparkle.
- Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature up to 5 days or refrigerate up to 2 weeks.
- Vegan Option: Replace gelatin with 2 tsp agar-agar powder. Boil gently for 1-2 minutes before mixing with purée.
Notes
- Do not boil after adding gelatin; heat destroys its setting power.
- Strain purée thoroughly for a silky texture.
- Use silicone molds for easy release and festive shapes.
- Dust with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Perfect for edible gifts, stocking stuffers, or Christmas dessert trays!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Candy, Dessert, Holiday Recipes
- Method: Stovetop, No-Bake
- Cuisine: American, Festive Treats
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 candies
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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