Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies
Bright and elegant Festive Cranberry Jelly Candies made with pure cranberry juice, sugar, and gelatin. A refined homemade treat perfect for gifting, holiday platters, or adding a vibrant touch to seasonal desserts.
10 Servings
Ingredients
Candy Base
- 1 cup cold cranberry juice 100% juice recommended
- 1 cup boiling cranberry juice
- 3 tablespoons powdered gelatin
- 2 cups granulated sugar plus additional sugar for coating
Instructions
Prepare the Pan
- Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the surface to ensure the candy releases cleanly once set.
Combine the Cold Juice and Gelatin
- In a large saucepan, whisk the cold cranberry juice and powdered gelatin together until fully blended. Allow the mixture to sit briefly so the gelatin hydrates.
Add the Boiling Juice and Sugar
- Carefully pour the boiling cranberry juice into the gelatin mixture. Add the granulated sugar and stir until all components are evenly combined.
Cook the Candy Mixture
- Set the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until it reaches 107°C (225°F), stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
Remove Surface Bubbles
- Using a fine mesh skimmer or wire strainer, skim off any foam or bubbles that collect on the surface to ensure a smooth final candy.
Pour and Chill
- Carefully transfer the hot mixture into the prepared pan. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or until fully set with a firm, jelly-like texture.
Cut and Coat the Candies
- When set, turn the slab onto a board dusted generously with granulated sugar. Coat the surface with additional sugar, then cut the slab into evenly sized squares.
Dry and Crystallize
- Arrange the cut candies on a parchment-lined tray and allow them to air dry at room temperature for 1–2 days, or until a crystallized sugar coating forms.
Notes
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. To ensure full compliance, verify that all ingredients—particularly gelatin and cranberry juice—are produced in gluten-free facilities. Avoid using flavored or sweetened juice cocktails, as additives may contain gluten-derived ingredients.