3-Ingredient Candied Cranberries

Every holiday season I find myself needing a quick, beautiful garnish that feels special without requiring a long ingredient list or extra stress. The first time I made these candied cranberries, I was honestly surprised by how something so simple could look so festive and taste so irresistible. They add sparkle, crunch, and a sweet tart pop to desserts, cheese boards, and drinks, giving you an effortless way to elevate any table.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

There’s something magical about turning everyday cranberries into glittering little jewels with almost no effort. Trust me, you’re going to love this. It comes together quickly, uses pantry basics, and delivers that perfect contrast of juicy tartness and crisp sugar coating. This one’s a total game-changer when you want big visual impact with minimal work.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe came from a last-minute holiday panic when I realized my dessert spread looked a little plain. I had cranberries sitting in the fridge and sugar in the pantry, so I started experimenting. The moment those ruby-red berries dried and sparkled under the lights, I knew this was a keeper. It has since become a cozy seasonal ritual that I genuinely look forward to every year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These three simple ingredients work together to create a glossy, crunchy coating that clings beautifully to each cranberry, letting their natural flavor shine.

1. Fresh cranberries: 2 cups, firm and bright, providing a juicy, tart center that balances the sweetness.
2. Granulated sugar: 2 cups total, used both for the syrup and coating, creating that crisp, sparkling finish.
3. Water: 1 cup, gently dissolves the sugar to form a light syrup that helps the coating stick.

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes plus drying time

Special Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy, just a few kitchen basics to make the process smooth and mess-free.

• Medium saucepan: Used to gently heat the sugar and water into a clear syrup.
• Slotted spoon: Helps lift the cranberries while letting excess syrup drip away.
• Wire rack: Allows air to circulate so the sugar coating dries evenly.
• Parchment paper: Catches any drips and keeps cleanup easy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This process is simple and even a little fun, especially once you see the cranberries start to sparkle.

1. Prepare the syrup: Combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan, then heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves and the liquid looks clear.
2. Coat the cranberries: Add the fresh cranberries to the warm syrup and gently stir for about 1 minute until every berry is evenly coated.
3. Drain and rest: Use a slotted spoon to remove the cranberries and place them on a wire rack set over parchment paper, letting them dry for about 1 hour until tacky but not wet.
4. Sugar the cranberries: Roll the slightly sticky cranberries in the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar until fully coated and sparkling.
5. Dry completely: Return the sugared cranberries to the wire rack and let them dry for another 1 to 2 hours until crisp to the touch.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

Pile these candied cranberries into a clear glass bowl so their jewel tones really shine. Scatter them over frosted cakes, cupcakes, or tarts for a festive crunch, or tuck them around a cheese board to add color and sweetness. They also look stunning sprinkled over yogurt, oatmeal, or even a simple vanilla dessert, adding contrast in both texture and flavor.

Extra Tips for Best Results

A few small details make all the difference when it comes to perfect sparkle and crunch.

• Use cranberries that are firm and dry for the best coating.
• Let the berries dry until just tacky before rolling in sugar so it sticks evenly.
• Spread them out while drying so they don’t clump together.
• Store only once fully dry to keep the sugar crisp.

Variations You Can Try

You can easily customize these candied cranberries depending on how you plan to use them.

• For extra crunch, roll the cranberries in coarse sugar instead of regular granulated sugar.
• For a citrus twist, add 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the sugar coating for bright aroma and flavor.
• For a softer finish, lightly shake off excess sugar and use them slightly tacky as a garnish.
• For mini desserts, skewer a few candied cranberries with fresh fruit for a colorful bite-sized treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

These candied cranberries are perfect for making ahead, which is especially helpful during busy holidays. Once fully dry, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Avoid refrigeration, as moisture can dissolve the sugar coating. If they lose a little sparkle, a quick roll in fresh sugar brings them right back to life.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 120
Note: These are approximate values.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw and dry them completely first. Any extra moisture can prevent the sugar from sticking properly.

2. Why are my cranberries sticky instead of crunchy?

They likely need more drying time. Let them sit uncovered until the sugar coating firms up fully.

3. Can I reduce the amount of sugar?

The sugar is essential for both texture and sparkle. Reducing it will change the final result significantly.

4. How long do candied cranberries last?

They stay best for up to two days at room temperature when stored properly.

5. Can I use this recipe for cake decorations?

Absolutely. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite when used as a festive cake topper.

6. Do candied cranberries need to be refrigerated?

No, refrigeration adds moisture and can dissolve the sugar coating.

7. Can kids help make this recipe?

Yes, it’s a great hands-on recipe for kids, especially rolling the cranberries in sugar.

8. What if my sugar coating looks uneven?

Simply roll the cranberries again once they are slightly tacky to even things out.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure not to overcrowd the saucepan so each cranberry coats evenly.

10. What dishes pair best with candied cranberries?

They pair beautifully with desserts, breakfast bowls, and savory cheese boards.

Conclusion

These 3-Ingredient Candied Cranberries are one of those simple recipes that feel a little magical every time you make them. They’re festive, easy, and endlessly versatile, and I hope they bring a bit of sparkle to your table too.

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