5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries

Featured in: Sweet & Savory Treats

This vibrant preparation features fresh cranberries gently coated in a sparkling sugar shell for a quick, crunchy treat. A simple syrup made of water and granulated sugar lightly coats the berries before rolling them in sugar to create a delightful crunch. Ready in just 5 minutes, these candied cranberries add a bright, tart burst of flavor perfect for snacking, garnishing desserts, or gifting. Optional zest or spices can enhance the flavor profile, while keeping the method straightforward and fast.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 14:31:00 GMT
Vibrant 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, ruby red and glistening, perfect for topping desserts beautifully. Save
Vibrant 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, ruby red and glistening, perfect for topping desserts beautifully. | dunebasil.com

A quick and vibrant treat featuring tart cranberries coated in a sparkling crunchy sugar shell—perfect for snacking, garnishing, or gifting.

I love making these candied cranberries whenever I need a quick festive treat that brightens up any dessert or snack.

Ingredients

  • Fresh cranberries: 2 cups (200 g), rinsed and dried
  • Water: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
  • Granulated sugar (syrup): 1/4 cup (50 g)
  • Granulated sugar (coating): 1/2 cup (100 g)

Instructions

Make syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup water and 1/4 cup sugar. Heat over medium, stirring, just until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool slightly (about 1 minute).
Coat cranberries:
Place cranberries in a large bowl. Pour the warm syrup over the cranberries and toss gently to coat all berries evenly.
Let cranberries tacky:
Using a slotted spoon, transfer cranberries to a wire rack or parchment-lined tray. Let them sit for 2 minutes to become slightly tacky.
Roll cranberries in sugar:
Roll a few cranberries at a time in the remaining 1/2 cup sugar until well coated. Set aside to dry for another 2 minutes before serving.
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| dunebasil.com

Candied cranberries always bring smiles at our holiday parties and make great gifts for friends and family.

Required Tools

Small saucepan Mixing bowl Slotted spoon Wire rack or parchment-lined tray

Allergen Information

This recipe is free from common allergens. Always check ingredient labels if you have concerns about cross-contamination.

Nutritional Information

Calories per serving: 70 Total Fat: 0 g Carbohydrates: 18 g Protein: 0 g

Tempting close-up of sugared 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, ready to be enjoyed as a festive snack. Save
Tempting close-up of sugared 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, ready to be enjoyed as a festive snack. | dunebasil.com

Enjoy these sparkling candied cranberries as a quick treat or elegant garnish that is sure to impress!

Recipe FAQs

How do I get a crunchy sugar coating on cranberries?

First, soak cranberries in a warm syrup made from sugar and water, then roll them in granulated sugar while slightly tacky to create a sparkling crunch.

Can I add extra flavors to the coating?

Yes, adding orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon to the syrup before coating enhances the flavor with citrusy or spicy notes.

What is the best way to dry the coated cranberries?

Place the coated cranberries on a wire rack or parchment-lined tray and allow them to dry for a couple of minutes to set the sugar shell.

How long do the candied cranberries stay fresh?

They are best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.

Are there any allergen concerns with this preparation?

This preparation is free from common allergens but always check ingredient labels for cross-contamination risks.

5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries

Tart cranberries coated in sparkling sugar for a quick, crunchy snack or garnish.

Prep Time
5 minutes
0
Overall Time
5 minutes
Recipe by Dune Basil Lea Romano


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 8 Portions

Diet Information Vegan-Friendly, No Dairy, No Gluten

What You'll Need

Main

01 2 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed and dried

Syrup

01 1/4 cup water
02 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Coating

01 1/2 cup granulated sugar for rolling

How to Make It

Step 01

Prepare Syrup: Combine 1/4 cup water and 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly for about 1 minute.

Step 02

Coat Cranberries: Place the rinsed and dried cranberries in a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm syrup over the cranberries and toss gently to ensure even coating of all berries.

Step 03

Drain Excess Syrup: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cranberries onto a wire rack or a tray lined with parchment paper. Let them rest for 2 minutes to become slightly tacky.

Step 04

Sugar Coating: Roll a few tacky cranberries at a time in the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar until fully coated. Arrange them to dry for an additional 2 minutes before serving.

Essential Tools

  • Small saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Slotted spoon
  • Wire rack or parchment-lined tray

Allergy Details

Review ingredients for allergies, and talk to your doctor if you're uncertain.
  • Free from common allergens. Verify ingredient labels to avoid cross-contamination.

Nutrition per serving

Nutritional details are for reference only. They're not a substitute for medical advice.
  • Energy: 70
  • Fats: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Proteins: 0 g