By Niesha Lofing
nlofing@sacbee.com
I have a cranberry problem. When I spot a bag of cranberries on sale, I'll toss it in my shopping cart. And since I wind up at the supermarket at least once a week, that can amount to a lot of cranberries.
A majority wind up in baked goods, but when I start running out of freezer space thanks to extra bags of cranberries (they freeze exceptionally well), I start looking for other ways to use them.
I came across a clever idea on Ocean Spray's website the other day - a cranberry ice candle. Really nothing more than cranberries frozen in ice and surrounding a votive candle.
With holiday party season in full swing, this also could be a great way to dress up the house without breaking the bank (click here to see our Food & Wine story about throwing a hot party on a budget).
Follow the link below to get the instructions on crafting the cranberry ice candle.
Cranberry Ice Candle
Project courtesy of Ocean Spray.
Supplies:
1 empty, pint-size carton of milk or half and half, clean and dry
1-2 12-oz. bags Ocean Spray® Fresh Cranberries
1 floating candle
Water
Orange slices, acorns, small leaves or other decorations, if desired
Instructions
Start with a pint-size carton of milk or half and half. Open the carton all the way and clean well.
Carefully pour water and Ocean Spray fresh cranberries into carton filling to about an inch below top of carton. If desired, drop in a few orange slices, acorns, small leaves or other decorations along the sides of the carton.
Place floating candle or tea light on top of the cranberries and water in center of arrangement. Carefully place the carton in the freezer on a flat surface and freeze overnight.
Once completely frozen, gently peel away carton to reveal the frozen contents. Dip carton in warm water if needed to loosen. Place frozen centerpiece in shallow bowl or deep plate.
Candle will last for a few hours, depending on room temperature. Check frequently and discard extra water from bowl as needed.
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