Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies are vibrant, jewel-toned sweets made with real cranberry juice, granulated sugar, and gelatin. These chewy, tart-sweet squares feature a sparkling sugar coating that adds a delightful crunch. If you love homemade candy that looks impressive yet uses simple ingredients, this cranberry jelly candy recipe belongs in your holiday lineup.
Unlike traditional fruit jellies made with pectin, Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies rely on powdered gelatin for structure. As a result, they are approachable for beginner candy makers while still delivering professional-quality results. Plus, their naturally bright red color makes them perfect for Christmas gifting and dessert trays.
I first made these Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies when I wanted something festive but not chocolate-heavy for a holiday sweets box. I usually lean toward truffles or caramels, yet I craved something tart and refreshing to balance the richness. After one batch, I was hooked. The sweet sugar crust contrasted beautifully with the cranberry's tang, and the chewy texture felt nostalgic yet refined. Since then, I make them every December, and they always disappear faster than expected.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line and grease an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Add cold cranberry juice to a pot. Sprinkle gelatin on top and whisk to combine.
- Add boiling cranberry juice and sugar. Bring to a boil, then simmer until mixture reaches 225°F (107°C).
- Skim bubbles and pour mixture into prepared pan. Refrigerate at least 4 hours until firm.
- Turn slab onto sugared surface, cut into squares, and coat thoroughly in granulated sugar.
- Allow candies to dry uncovered at room temperature for 1-2 days until sugar crystallizes.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You'll Love Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies
Tart-Sweet Flavor with Natural Color
Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies stand out because they deliver the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Pure cranberry juice provides bold flavor and a natural crimson hue. Therefore, you do not need food coloring to achieve that festive red.
Because cranberry juice has natural acidity, the flavor remains bright rather than overly sugary. Even after coating the candies in granulated sugar, they maintain that refreshing cranberry tang.
Perfect for Holiday Gifting
These candies hold their shape beautifully once crystallized. Additionally, they store well at room temperature for up to one month. That makes Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies ideal for packaging in cellophane bags, decorative tins, or holiday gift boxes.
Since they dry for 1-2 days after coating, they develop a signature crunchy shell. This outer layer not only enhances texture but also prevents sticking, making them easier to transport.
Ingredients for Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies
Simple Pantry Ingredients
You only need four core ingredients:
- Cold cranberry juice
- Boiling cranberry juice
- Powdered gelatin
- Granulated sugar
Start with 100% pure cranberry juice. Avoid cranberry juice cocktail because the added sugar will throw off the balance and make the candies too sweet.
Granulated sugar serves two purposes. First, it sweetens and structures the candy. Second, it forms the sparkling coating that defines Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies.
Powdered gelatin provides stability and chew. While leaf gelatin works beautifully in other confections, powdered gelatin simplifies this recipe.
Optional Tools for Success
Although the ingredient list remains short, proper tools ensure success:
- 8×8-inch metal pan
- Parchment paper
- Digital thermometer
- Fine mesh strainer or skimmer
- Sharp, well-oiled knife
A thermometer is essential because precise temperature determines texture. Without it, the candy may not set correctly.
How to Make Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Line and generously grease an 8×8-inch pan with parchment.
Pour cold cranberry juice into a large pot. Sprinkle powdered gelatin evenly over the surface. Whisk gently to combine and allow the gelatin to bloom for a few minutes.
Step 2: Add Sugar and Heat
Add boiling cranberry juice and granulated sugar to the pot. Whisk until fully combined.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Then reduce to medium and simmer until the temperature reaches 225°F (107°C). This process typically takes 20-25 minutes.
Stir occasionally with a heat-resistant spoon. Do not rush this step, as proper temperature ensures correct consistency.
Step 3: Skim and Pour
Once the mixture reaches temperature, remove it from heat. Skim off any foam or bubbles using a fine mesh strainer or skimmer.
Pour the hot mixture into the prepared pan. Even if a few bubbles remain, the sugar coating will hide minor imperfections.
Refrigerate for at least four hours or until completely firm.
Cutting and Coating the Candies
Step 4: Slice the Slab
Coat a cutting board generously with granulated sugar.
Turn the chilled slab out onto the sugared surface. Remove parchment carefully. Dust the top with sugar.
Lightly mark grid lines with the back of your knife before cutting. Then, using a sharp, well-oiled knife, slice into 7×7 or 8×8 squares.
Step 5: Coat and Dry
Roll each square thoroughly in sugar, ensuring all sticky sides are coated.
Arrange the candies on a parchment-lined tray without touching. Allow them to sit uncovered at room temperature for 1-2 days. During this time, the sugar crystallizes and forms a crunchy shell.
Tips for Perfect Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies
Grease Everything
Generously oil your pan, knife, and even your fingertips. This prevents sticking and makes cutting far easier.
Use Pure Cranberry Juice
Choose unsweetened 100% cranberry juice. Blends or cocktails contain added sugar that alters both flavor and texture.
Plan Ahead
Because Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies require chilling and drying time, prepare them several days before gifting.
Manage Bubbles
Foam naturally forms during cooking. Skim gently before pouring. However, do not worry if small streaks remain-they will disappear beneath the sugar coating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but reducing sugar may affect texture. Test smaller adjustments first.
Do I need a thermometer?
Yes. Accurate temperature ensures the candy sets properly.
Can I use other juices?
Absolutely. Cherry or pomegranate juice works beautifully, though sweetness levels may vary.
How long do they last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they last up to one month.
Can I freeze them?
Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect texture and sugar crystallization.
Conclusion
Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies combine simple ingredients with professional results. Their bright natural color, balanced tartness, and sparkling sugar coating make them an elegant addition to holiday dessert tables and gift boxes.
Although they require a bit of patience for chilling and drying, the process remains straightforward and rewarding. Once you taste that sweet-crunchy shell and chewy cranberry center, you will understand why Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies deserve a permanent place in your holiday candy collection.
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