Description
These sparkly Sugared Cranberries are the perfect holiday garnish! Sweet, tart, and beautifully frosted, they’re an easy 3-ingredient treat that adds festive sparkle to cakes, cocktails, and desserts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries (rinsed and dried)
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided (½ cup for syrup + ½ cup for coating)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract or orange zest (for extra flavor)
- Superfine sugar (for a lighter, frosty look)
Instructions
- Make Simple Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup water and ½ cup sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil. Remove from heat and cool slightly for 5 minutes. - Coat the Cranberries:
Add the cranberries to the warm syrup and stir gently to coat. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes so they absorb a thin layer of sweetness. - Dry the Cranberries:
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries onto a wire rack set over a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread in a single layer and let them dry for about 1 hour, until sticky but not wet. - Roll in Sugar:
Place remaining ½ cup sugar in a shallow dish. Roll the tacky cranberries in the sugar until evenly coated. Return to the rack and let dry for another 30–45 minutes. - Serve or Store:
Once dry, your Sugared Cranberries are ready to use! Serve as decorations, garnishes, or enjoy as a sweet snack.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries only—frozen ones become too soft when thawed.
- Let the syrup cool slightly before adding cranberries to prevent bursting.
- Roll the berries in sugar when they’re tacky, not wet, for the best frosted look.
- Try superfine sugar for a delicate, snowy effect or coarse sugar for extra sparkle.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or orange zest to the syrup for a holiday twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes