Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Slotted spoon
• Wire cooling rack
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Simple Syrup

In a medium saucepan, combine the ½ cup water and ½ cup granulated sugar.

Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved. Do not let the syrup boil vigorously.

Remove from the heat and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Coat the Cranberries

Add the fresh cranberries to the warm syrup and gently stir until every berry is evenly coated.

Let the cranberries sit in the syrup for about 5–10 minutes, allowing them to become slightly sticky.

Avoid leaving them too long, as they may begin to soften.

Step 3: Dry the Cranberries

Using a slotted spoon, remove the cranberries from the syrup.

Arrange them in a single layer on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet or on parchment paper.

Allow them to dry for 45–60 minutes, or until they feel tacky but not wet.

Step 4: Coat with Sugar

Place the remaining 1 cup granulated sugar into a shallow bowl.

Working in small batches, roll the tacky cranberries in the sugar until completely coated with sparkling crystals.

Shake off any excess sugar.

Step 5: Let Them Set

Spread the sugared cranberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Allow them to rest for another 20–30 minutes so the sugar coating can fully set.

They are now ready to serve or use as a festive garnish.

Tips

• Use fresh, firm cranberries for the best results.
• Let the berries become tacky before rolling them in sugar so the coating sticks well.
• Roll the cranberries in batches to ensure even coverage.
• For extra sparkle, use coarse decorating sugar instead of regular granulated sugar.
• Handle the berries gently to keep them from bursting.
• Make them one day ahead for holiday entertaining.

Variations

Citrus Sugared Cranberries

Add a strip of orange or lemon zest to the syrup while heating for a subtle citrus flavor.

Vanilla Sugared Cranberries

Stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract after removing the syrup from the heat.

Cinnamon Sugared Cranberries

Mix ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon into the coating sugar for a warm holiday flavor.

Sparkling Cranberries

Use coarse sanding sugar instead of granulated sugar for an extra-crystalized appearance.

Spiced Cranberries

Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the sugar coating for a festive twist.

Storage

Room Temperature: Store in a loosely covered container for up to 2 days.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The sugar coating may soften slightly over time.

Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the berries lose their crisp sugar coating after thawing.

Serving Suggestions

Sugared Cranberries are perfect for:

• Garnishing cakes and cupcakes
• Decorating cheesecakes
• Topping pumpkin pie
• Holiday cocktails and mocktails
• Cheese and charcuterie boards
• Yogurt parfaits
• Holiday dessert platters
• Salads
• Ice cream sundaes
• Serving as a festive sweet-tart snack

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 115
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 27g
• Sodium: 1mg

Conclusion

Sugared Cranberries are a simple yet stunning holiday treat that adds sparkle, color, and festive charm to any celebration. With their crisp sugar coating and naturally tart center, they make an elegant garnish for desserts, cocktails, and cheese boards while also being delicious enough to enjoy on their own. Easy to prepare and beautiful to serve, these sparkling cranberries are sure to become a favorite holiday tradition.