Candied Strawberries: A Sweet and Tantalizing Treat
Candied strawberries are a true delight for the senses – their vibrant red hue, glistening glaze, and burst of juicy sweetness make them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re looking for a decadent dessert, a thoughtful gift, or a unique addition to your charcuterie board, these candied berries are sure to impress.
Indulge in the captivating flavors of this classic confection, where the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries is elevated to new heights with a simple sugar coating. Prepare to be enchanted by the irresistible interplay of textures, from the delicate crunch of the candy coating to the luscious, juicy interior.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
Candied strawberries are a true delight for the senses – their vibrant red hue, glistening glaze, and burst of juicy sweetness make them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re looking for a decadent dessert, a thoughtful gift, or a unique addition to your charcuterie board, these candied berries are sure to impress.
Beyond their undeniable appeal, candied strawberries offer a delightful texture contrast, with a delicate crunch that gives way to a luscious, juicy interior. And the best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an accessible and satisfying treat for home cooks of all skill levels. Plus, the candied berries can be made ahead of time, ensuring you can enjoy their sweet indulgence whenever the craving strikes.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Candied Strawberries ❓
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons water
The beauty of this candied strawberry recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of fresh, juicy strawberries and a simple sugar coating creates a flavor profile that has made this sweet treat a perennial favorite.
📝 How to Make Candied Strawberries Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is simmering.
• Step 3: Add the prepared strawberries to the sugar syrup and gently toss to coat. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the strawberries are tender and the syrup has thickened slightly.
• Step 4: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the candied strawberries to a parchment-lined baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer. Allow to cool completely, about 30 minutes.
• Step 5: Once cooled, the candied strawberries are ready to serve or store. Enjoy them as a standalone treat, or incorporate them into your favorite desserts, salads, or charcuterie boards.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 5-7 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
Compared to traditional confections that can take up to an hour to prepare, this candied strawberry recipe saves you valuable time while delivering similar indulgent flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 1mg
These candied strawberries provide approximately 5% of your daily vitamin C requirements and 4% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace the granulated sugar with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
• Dairy-free adaptation: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
• Added protein: Sprinkle the candied strawberries with chopped nuts or shredded coconut to boost the protein content.
• Boost vegetables: Pair the candied strawberries with fresh, raw vegetables like carrot sticks or celery for a nutritious snack.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 25% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the candied strawberries.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a light, tangy cheese like goat cheese or ricotta for a sweet and savory charcuterie board.
• Complement a fresh green salad with candied strawberries, toasted nuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a complete meal.
• For a brunch or tea party, serve the candied strawberries alongside freshly baked scones or pound cake.
• Create a stunning dessert platter with the candied strawberries, dark chocolate shavings, and a drizzle of honey or caramel sauce.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Not fully drying the strawberries: Wet strawberries will not properly absorb the sugar coating, leading to a soggy, unappealing texture. Ensure the berries are thoroughly patted dry before adding them to the syrup.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: If the candied strawberries are placed too close together on the baking sheet, they may stick together as they cool. Arrange them in a single, even layer to allow for proper cooling and separation.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These candied strawberries retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the sugar syrup and coat the strawberries, then transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Freezing baked: Allow the candied strawberries to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the frozen berries on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the candied strawberries ahead of time?
Absolutely! The candied strawberries can be made up to 1 week in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. For longer-term storage, they can also be frozen for up to 3 months, either before or after baking.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries are the ideal choice for this recipe, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the sugar syrup. The texture and flavor may be slightly different, but the candied strawberries will still be delicious.
Are these candied strawberries gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe for candied strawberries is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just be sure to double-check the ingredients of any additional toppings or accompaniments to ensure they are also gluten-free.
What if my candied strawberries turn out soggy?
If your candied strawberries end up with a soggy texture, it’s likely because the strawberries were not fully dried before being added to the sugar syrup. In the future, be sure to pat the strawberries completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I add other fruits to the candied strawberries?
Absolutely! The candied strawberry recipe can be easily adapted to include other types of fruit, such as sliced peaches, blackberries, or even diced pineapple. Simply adjust the cooking time as needed to accommodate the different fruit textures.
Conclusion
These candied strawberries represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a decadent dessert, an eye-catching addition to a charcuterie board, or a sweet and tangy snack, they’re sure to impress with their vibrant color, delicate crunch, and juicy sweetness.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these candied strawberries demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. Indulge in the irresistible allure of this classic confection and savor the delightful contrast of textures and flavors in every bite.
