Candied Cranberries

Name: Candied Cranberries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup water; 1½ cups granulated sugar, divided (1 cup + ½ cup)

Author: Samantha Reed

Published: November 22, 2025

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Introduction to Candied Cranberries

As a passionate home cook, I’m always on the lookout for simple yet delightful recipes that can bring joy to my family. Candied cranberries are one such treat that never fails to impress! These bright, sweet morsels are perfect for adding a festive touch to any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy dinner. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, making this recipe a perfect solution for a busy day. Just a few ingredients and some simple steps can transform fresh cranberries into a dazzling treat that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Candied Cranberries

One of the best things about these candied cranberries is how uncomplicated they are to whip up. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you’ll have a sweet treat that dazzles. The bright tartness of cranberries combined with the sugary coating creates a burst of flavor. Plus, they can elevate any dish, from holiday desserts to simple cheese boards, making you feel like a culinary rock star!

Ingredients for Candied Cranberries

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delightful candied cranberries. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh Cranberries: Look for firm, vibrant berries. They should be bright red, as this indicates freshness. If you find some that look dull or wrinkly, skip them—fresh is best!
Granulated Sugar: This sweet staple is what gives these cranberries their signature sugary coating. You’ll need a bit for the syrup and some for rolling. For a twist, try using superfine sugar for a smoother texture!

Water: Necessary for creating the simple syrup, which binds the sugar to the cranberries. Filtered water is always a good choice for the cleanest flavor.
Optional Spices: Consider adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the syrup for extra warmth and seasonal flair. It can elevate the flavor profile and make your treats even more festive.

Thickening Options: If you want your cranberries to stay tart and juicy inside, you might experiment with a bit of corn syrup mixed in the syrup to maintain moisture.

For specific quantities of each ingredient, check the bottom of this article where you can also find a printable version. Enjoy gathering your ingredients!

How to Make Candied Cranberries

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the fun part—making candied cranberries! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a beautiful batch ready to impress family and friends. I promise it’s simpler than it sounds. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Make the Simple Syrup

To kick things off, we’ll create a luscious simple syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine one cup of water with one cup of granulated sugar. Stir this mixture over medium heat. Keep an eye on it! As it warms, the sugar will dissolve into the water, creating a sweet syrup. This should take just a few minutes. Once everything is dissolved, remove it from the heat. Let it cool slightly for about 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Coat the Cranberries

Next up is adding our fresh cranberries to the syrup. Gently toss the cranberries into the warm syrup. You want to make sure each berry gets a light coating. Stir carefully to avoid splashing. Let them sit in the syrup for about 5–10 minutes. Just a heads-up—make sure the syrup isn’t too hot. We don’t want those lovely cranberries bursting!

Step 3: Dry the Cranberries

After they’ve soaked, it’s time to dry the cranberries. Use a slotted spoon for this task, transferring them to a wire rack. I like to place parchment paper or a baking sheet underneath to catch any drips. Spread them out in a single layer so air can circulate. They need about 45–60 minutes on the rack to reach that perfect tacky texture—ideal for rolling in sugar.

Step 4: Sugar the Cranberries

Once the cranberries are tacky, it’s time to give them that sparkling finish! Pour the remaining half cup of sugar into a shallow bowl or a rimmed baking sheet. Roll each cranberry in the sugar until they are fully coated. For an even flashier look, I suggest doing this step twice! Let them dry for an additional 15 minutes and then roll in sugar again. It’ll give them that extra glimmer we love!

Step 5: Let Set and Store

Now that your cranberries are beautifully sugared, return them to the rack. Allow them to dry completely for about an hour. Once they’re fully dry, you can store your candied cranberries in an airtight container. They will last at room temperature for about two days or can be refrigerated up to a week. Trust me, these little gems won’t stick around long!

Tips for Success

Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture. Avoid any soft or shriveled berries.

When making the syrup, ensure it cools slightly before adding cranberries to prevent bursting.
Double-coating the cranberries in sugar adds a beautiful sparkle and extra sweetness.
Keep the drying cranberries in a cool place to maintain their texture.

Feel free to experiment with spices for personalized flavor!

Equipment Needed

Medium saucepan: Any size will do, as long as it can hold the syrup mixture.
Slotted spoon: Great for transferring cranberries. A regular spoon works in a pinch!
Wire rack: Essential for drying. If you don’t have one, a baking sheet will work too.

Shallow bowl: Needed for rolling the cranberries in sugar; any dish will do!

Variations

Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the syrup. This brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing twist.
Spiced Cranberries: Incorporate a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the simple syrup for a warm, aromatic kick—as if the holidays were in every bite!

Chocolate-Covered: For a decadent treat, dip the finished candied cranberries in melted dark or white chocolate before the final sugar coating.
Lower Sugar Option: Substitute half of the sugar in the recipe with a sugar alternative like Stevia or Monk fruit for a lighter version.
Festive Colors: Use colored sugar, or mix in edible glitter to make your candied cranberries extra festive for parties or gatherings!

Serving Suggestions

Use candied cranberries as a stunning garnish for cocktails and festive beverages.
Enjoy them alongside a rich cheese platter to balance flavors.
Add a handful to your holiday desserts for a pop of color and sweetness.

Sprinkle over salads for a delightful sweet-tart contrast.

FAQs about Candied Cranberries

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
While fresh cranberries are best for candied cranberries, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before coating them in sugar.

How long do candied cranberries last?
If stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, candied cranberries can last for about two days. In the refrigerator, they can stay fresh for up to a week, but honestly, they rarely last that long in my house!

What can I do with leftover candied cranberries?
There are so many fun ways to use them! You can toss them in salads, top yogurt or ice cream, or even add them to baked goods. They also make a great snack on their own!

Can I make candied cranberries ahead of time?
Absolutely! These little gems store well, making them perfect for prepping in advance. Just make sure they dry completely before storing to keep them beautifully coated.

What’s the best way to serve candied cranberries?
Serve them as a festive garnish on desserts or cocktails. They also shine on cheese boards and instantly brighten up salads, turning any dish into a celebration!

Final Thoughts

Making candied cranberries has become a delightful ritual in my kitchen, bringing a bit of sweet magic to our gatherings. Each time I craft these vibrant treats, I’m reminded of how something so simple can create a burst of joy and beauty. Whether they end up as a garnish for festive cocktails or a sweet snack all on their own, they never fail to impress. Plus, you gain a sense of accomplishment with every batch made! I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the smiles on your loved ones’ faces when they taste these delightful little gems!