Save Sweet, tart cranberries enrobed in a light, crunchy tempura batter are perfect as a festive appetizer or unique party snack. Ready in just over half an hour, these bites bring a Japanese-inspired flair to your holiday table and are sure to impress.
I first made these crispy tempura cranberry bites for a winter gathering, and they were gone within minutes. The contrast of the tart cranberries and the light, crunchy coating had my guests reaching for seconds!
Ingredients
- Cranberries: 1 ½ cups fresh or thawed frozen cranberries
- All-purpose flour: ¾ cup
- Cornstarch: ¼ cup
- Baking powder: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Egg: 1 large
- Ice-cold sparkling water: ¾ cup
- Vegetable oil: for deep frying
- Powdered sugar (optional): 2 tablespoons, for dusting
- Fresh mint (optional): 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prep Cranberries:
- Pat the cranberries dry with a paper towel.
- Make Dry Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg, then whisk in the ice-cold sparkling water.
- Mix Batter:
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix. A few lumps are fine.
- Heat Oil:
- Heat vegetable oil 2 inches deep in a saucepan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Batter and Fry:
- Working in batches, dip cranberries into the tempura batter until fully coated.
- Cook Bites:
- Carefully drop battered cranberries into hot oil. Fry 1–2 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp.
- Drain:
- Transfer with slotted spoon to paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Optionally dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with chopped mint. Serve warm.
Save Our family likes to serve these tempura bites alongside the main meal for a crunchy surprise. They always spark conversation and delight guests with their festive color and zingy flavor.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, deep saucepan or fryer, slotted spoon, paper towels—simple equipment you probably have on hand.
Allergen Information
Contains egg and wheat. Check your powdered sugar for any corn or gluten contamination if you have sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Each bite provides about 65 calories with a light amount of fat and carbs, making this recipe suitable for vegetarian guests.
Save Make these at your next gathering and watch them disappear fast. Each bite brings a crunch and a burst of festive flavor.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use frozen cranberries for this dish?
Yes, thawed frozen cranberries work well. Just dry thoroughly before dipping into the batter.
- → How do I keep the tempura crisp?
Use ice-cold sparkling water for the batter and fry the bites in hot oil at 350°F for best crispness.
- → What dipping sauce pairs nicely with these bites?
Honey or citrus-based sauces enhance both sweet and tart flavors, making a tasty complement.
- → Can I substitute the cranberries with other fruits?
Yes, fresh blueberries are a great alternative, offering a sweeter touch to the crispy coating.
- → Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, it contains no meat and is suitable for vegetarians, but check allergen notes for wheat and eggs.
- → How should leftover bites be stored?
Let them cool, then store in an airtight container. Reheat briefly for best texture, though best served fresh.