Sugared Cranberries
The best sugared cranberries recipe for festive gatherings.
Published: December 24, 2021 · Modified: February 17, 2025 by Jennifer Ryan

Few things capture the holiday spirit quite like the sparkle of sugared cranberries. Their delicate, crystallized coating transforms tart berries into a treat that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether scattered over a frosted cake, perched atop a cocktail glass, or enjoyed by the handful, these candied cranberries provide the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dazzling holiday garnish that looks gourmet but requires minimal effort—an ideal addition to any festive gathering.
The Appeal of Sugared Cranberries: A Timeless Holiday Tradition
There’s a reason sugared cranberries have been a holiday favorite for generations. Their vibrant red color, coated in a delicate layer of crystallized sugar, instantly enhances any holiday spread. Beyond their aesthetic charm, they provide a delightful contrast of textures—the crunch of sugar yielding to the tart juiciness of the berry. A versatile addition to any festive occasion, these glistening cranberries evoke a sense of nostalgia and celebration.
Ingredients and Tools You Need to Make Sugared Cranberries
Making sugared cranberries requires only three basic ingredients:
- Fresh cranberries
- Granulated sugar
- Water
Essential tools include a small saucepan, a slotted spoon, parchment paper, and a baking sheet. With these simple components, you can create an elegant treat in under 30 minutes.
How to Use Sugared Cranberries in Holiday Desserts and Drinks
- Dessert Garnish: Sprinkle them over cakes, cheesecakes, and cupcakes for a frosted effect.
- Cocktail Decoration: Skewer them onto cocktail picks for a festive touch in holiday drinks.
- Charcuterie Boards: Pair them with cheeses and nuts for a striking contrast in flavors.
- Snack: Enjoy them on their own as a lightly candied treat.
Storage Tips: Keeping Your Sugared Cranberries Fresh and Crisp
To maintain their crisp texture, store sugared cranberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, but be aware that humidity may dissolve some of the sugar coating. If needed, re-roll them in sugar before serving.
Are Sugared Cranberries Healthy? Nutritional Benefits and Considerations
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. However, the sugar coating increases their calorie content, so they should be enjoyed in moderation. Despite this, they remain a healthier alternative to many other holiday sweets.
Sugared Cranberries
Instructions
Prepping the cranberries
- First thing to do is line two baking trays with a parchment paper and set to one side.
- Wash your fresh cranberries and drain any excess water.300 g Fresh Cranberries
How to sugar cranberries
- Into a small saucepan add in 110g of granulated sugar and 125ml of water.220 g Sugar, 125 ml Water
- Dissolve the sugar by stirring over a medium to low heat for a few minutes or until the syrup has thickened slightly. Remove from the heat.
- Add your cranberries into the saucepan a few at a time. While cooking cranberries stir regularly to make sure they are completely coated or soaked in the syrup. Using a slotted spoon remove the cranberries and place onto your lined baking sheet. Make sure that they are spaced out evenly on your tray and not touching each other, this is important as they will stick together and will make the next stage very difficult.
- Continue to coat the rest of the cranberries and place them onto tour lined tray in the same way.
- Leave the cranberries to set for about an hour.
- After an hour fill a bowl with the rest of the sugar. Using a slotted spoon take a few cranberries at a time and drop them into the bowl of sugar and coat them by stirring.
- When you have completed sugar coating your cranberries transfer them to the second lined baking sheet to finish drying. Continue coating the rest of the cooked cranberries in the same way. Your sugared cranberries are complete and ready for the holiday dinner table.
Notes
Nutrition
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Sugared cranberries embody the magic of the holiday season—simple to make, yet undeniably elegant. Whether adorning a festive dessert, enhancing a holiday cocktail, or enjoyed as a sweet-tart snack, they bring a burst of flavor and beauty to any occasion. For those looking to expand their cranberry repertoire, consider trying homemade cranberry sauce or incorporating fresh cranberries into baked goods. Stay tuned for more holiday recipes that will elevate your festive celebrations!
I love the idea of using these cranberries as a cocktail garnish. Do you have a favorite holiday drink recipe that pairs well with them?
They’re perfect for adding that festive touch to holiday cocktails! One of my favorites is a cranberry gin fizz. The sugared cranberries look stunning on top and complement the drink’s flavor beautifully. You can also skewer them for a fun garnish with champagne or a holiday sangria!