Introduction
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this exquisite Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce! A perfect balance of sweet and tart, this indulgent treat elevates the humble cranberry sauce into a luxurious dessert experience. Whether it’s for a festive occasion or simply a sweet craving, these little morsels are bound to impress. The rich, dark chocolate coating adds a wonderful touch, making them not just a treat, but a true centerpiece for your dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Sea salt, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
Yield: 16 pieces
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Stir gently to mix the ingredients together.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to a delightful consistency.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry sauce cool completely at room temperature.
- Once cooled, transfer the sauce to the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 2 hours to set.
- Meanwhile, in a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil.
- Microwave the chocolate mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the chilled cranberry sauce onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
- Carefully dip each spoonful into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated, then place it back onto the parchment paper.
- To finish, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each chocolate-covered cranberry for that perfect touch.
- Let the chocolate-covered cranberries set at room temperature, or pop them into the refrigerator for quicker results.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the cranberry sauce based on your taste preferences.
- You can experiment with different types of chocolate such as milk or white chocolate for a unique twist.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cooking Techniques
The key to the best chocolate-covered cranberries is ensuring that the chocolate is smooth and evenly melted. Stirring at intervals while microwaving helps maintain the texture and prevents burning. As for the cranberry sauce, simmering the mixture allows the cranberries to burst naturally, releasing their juices and creating a thick, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the chocolate.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; just toss them into the pot directly.
What if I can’t find dark chocolate chips?
You can use any chocolate you prefer, but dark chocolate offers a richer flavor that pairs beautifully with the tartness of cranberries.
Conclusion
Creating these Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce treats is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about crafting a delightful experience for yourself and your loved ones. With their beautiful presentation and irresistible taste, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the burst of flavor with every bite, and feel free to share your creations with friends and family!