Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Preparation
- Line an 8×8-inch square tin with parchment paper in a criss-cross pattern, allowing a 1-inch overhang on all sides, and generously grease with nonstick spray. Set aside.
- In a large stock pot, add the cold cranberry juice and sprinkle powdered gelatin over the top. Whisk together until combined.
- Pour in the boiling cranberry juice along with the granulated sugar, then whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined.
Cooking
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, which should take about 5 minutes. Then reduce to medium heat and simmer, stirring occasionally with a heat-resistant spoon, until the candy thermometer reads 107°C / 225°F. This process takes approximately 20-25 minutes or more.
- Remove the pot from heat. Using a skimmer or fine mesh strainer, gently remove any large bubbles that have formed on the surface.
- Pour the hot mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Refrigerate until firm, at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
Finishing Touches
- Line a large tray with parchment or a silicone baking mat and coat a large chopping board with 2-3 scoops of granulated sugar. Flip the chilled cranberry slab onto the sugared board and peel away the parchment lining.
- Using your hands, thoroughly spread granulated sugar over the slab on both sides to fully coat.
- With the back of a knife, lightly mark squares on the sugar-coated slab as a cutting guide. You can create either 7 x 7 rows for 49 candies or 8 x 8 rows for 64 candies depending on the size you prefer.
- Using a sharp, well-oiled chef’s knife, carefully cut along the marked lines to separate the candies.
- Roll each individual square in granulated sugar to completely coat all sticky surfaces.
- Arrange the coated candies on the prepared tray ensuring they do not touch. Allow them to dry uncovered at room temperature for 1-2 days until the sugar crystallizes and the candy is crunchy on the outside.
- Layer the dried cranberry jelly candies between sheets of parchment paper and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month.
Nutrition
Notes
Add a hint of citrus zest for extra flavor or swap some cranberry juice for pomegranate juice for a unique twist.
