Add a sparkling, festive touch to your holiday desserts and drinks with sugared cranberries. These beautiful little berries are perfect for decorating cakes, topping cocktails, or even just snacking on. With a pop of red and a sugary finish, they make any occasion feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sugared cranberries are the perfect holiday garnish. They add a brilliant touch of color and sparkle to any dessert or drink. Whether you’re using them as a garnish for your eggnog cheesecake or adding them to your favorite Christmas cocktail, these berries bring a festive flair. They are also a great way to use up leftover cranberries, which can often be left after a big holiday meal. Plus, the process is incredibly quick, taking only about 10 minutes of active prep time, with minimal ingredients needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ½ cup granulated sugar (for simple syrup)

• 1 cup water

• 3 ½ cups fresh cranberries

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (for coating)

Directions

1. Prepare the simple syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup of sugar with the water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool slightly.

2. Coat the cranberries: Add the cranberries to the syrup, stirring to ensure they are fully coated. Let the cranberries sit in the syrup for 15 minutes to soak up the sweetness.

3. Dry the cranberries: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to dry for 1 hour. This will help the syrup set on the berries.

4. Sugar the cranberries: Once the cranberries are sticky and dry, roll them in the remaining sugar in small batches. Place the sugared cranberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them air-dry for another hour.

5. Ready to use: Once dry, your sugared cranberries are ready to be used as a garnish for cakes, cocktails, or anything else you’d like to add a festive touch to.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 16 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes

• Resting Time: 2 hours

• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Spices: Mix 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg into the sugar for coating the cranberries. Alternatively, add sprigs of rosemary, cinnamon sticks, cloves, or star anise to the syrup to infuse the cranberries with a warm, aromatic flavor.

• Flavored Syrup: For an extra layer of flavor, add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or ½ teaspoon almond extract to the syrup mixture.

• Citrus Twist: Rub 2 teaspoons of orange zest into the sugar used for coating to give your sugared cranberries a delightful citrusy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store sugared cranberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely dry before storing, and place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.

• Freezing: To freeze, arrange the sugared cranberries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Transfer the frozen berries to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can be stored for up to one month.

FAQs

How long do sugared cranberries last?

Sugared cranberries can last up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

No, frozen cranberries are not suitable for this recipe as they do not hold their shape or texture well after thawing. Fresh cranberries are best.

Can I make sugared cranberries ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to a month.

How do I prevent the cranberries from sticking to each other?

Make sure to place parchment paper between layers of cranberries when storing them. It helps keep them from sticking together.

Can I flavor the cranberries with something other than sugar?

Yes! You can add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or orange zest to the sugar for extra flavor. You can also infuse the syrup with vanilla or almond extract for a unique twist.

How do I use sugared cranberries as a garnish?

Sugared cranberries make a beautiful garnish for cakes, cocktails, and desserts. Simply place them on top of your creations for a pop of color and sweetness.

Can I use other berries for this recipe?

While cranberries work best, you could try using other berries, like blueberries or raspberries. However, cranberries have the ideal texture and tartness for this recipe.

How do I ensure the sugar sticks to the cranberries?

Allow the cranberries to dry and become sticky after soaking in the syrup. This makes the sugar stick better when you roll them.

Can I add any other flavorings to the cranberries?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavorings, such as citrus zest or flavored extracts like vanilla or almond, to enhance the flavor profile of the cranberries.

Can I use this recipe for other holiday garnishes?

Absolutely! These sugared cranberries make a great garnish for not just desserts and cocktails, but also for holiday wreaths or centerpieces. Their festive look is perfect for holiday decor!

Conclusion

Sugared cranberries are a simple yet stunning addition to your holiday celebrations. Whether decorating a cake, garnishing a cocktail, or just enjoying them on their own, these sweet-tart little berries will bring a festive touch to any dish. They are easy to make, and with just a few ingredients, they’re sure to become a holiday favorite!