Sparkling Sugared Cranberries are a simple yet stunning holiday treat made by soaking fresh cranberries in syrup and rolling them in sugar. Their crisp sugar coating, bright red color, and balance of sweet and tart flavors make them perfect for decorating desserts, garnishing drinks, or enjoying as a festive snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cranberries add visual sparkle and bright flavor to any holiday dish. They’re incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients and offer an elegant touch whether you use them as cake toppers, cocktail garnishes, or as part of a holiday charcuterie board. Their sweet-crisp shell and tart bite make them unique and refreshing.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh cranberries
granulated sugar
water
superfine sugar (for coating)

directions

In a saucepan, combine equal parts water and granulated sugar. Heat over medium until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture just begins to simmer — do not boil.
Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool slightly for 2–3 minutes.
Add the cranberries to the syrup and stir gently to coat. Let them soak for 5–10 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let them dry at room temperature for 45–60 minutes — they should be tacky but not wet.
Once tacky, roll the cranberries in superfine sugar to coat evenly. Use a shallow dish and roll a few at a time.
Let sugared cranberries dry again for at least 1 hour at room temperature to set the coating.
Store in a dry, airtight container until ready to use.

Servings and timing

Makes about 1–2 cups, depending on batch size.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Soak and dry time: 2 hours total
Total time: ~2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Add orange zest or cinnamon to the syrup for a seasonal twist.
Use rosemary sprigs or sugared mint leaves alongside for festive garnish sets.
Try with other berries like grapes or blueberries for a similar effect.
Dip half the cranberry in melted chocolate before rolling in sugar for a unique flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days. Avoid humidity or refrigeration, which can cause the sugar coating to dissolve. These do not require reheating and are best served as-is.

FAQs

Why did my sugar coating melt off?

If the cranberries are too wet when rolled, the sugar will dissolve. Let them dry until tacky, not moist.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

No. Frozen cranberries become too soft and wet when thawed, making them unsuitable for this recipe.

What is superfine sugar and why is it used?

Superfine sugar (also called caster sugar) is finer than granulated sugar, creating a more even, sparkling coating. It sticks better and looks cleaner.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, but they are best used within 2–3 days. The sugar coating may begin to soften after that.

Can I flavor the syrup?

Yes — infuse it with vanilla, citrus peel, spices, or herbs to complement other dishes or drinks.

Are these edible or just for decoration?

They are fully edible and delicious. The crisp shell and tart center make them great for snacking.

How do I use these on desserts?

Use them to top cakes, pies, cupcakes, or cheesecakes. Their visual appeal makes desserts look professionally styled.

Can I use regular granulated sugar for coating?

Yes, but superfine sugar gives a more refined sparkle. You can make your own by pulsing granulated sugar in a blender for a few seconds.

How do I serve them in drinks?

Skewer a few on a cocktail pick or float them in champagne, sangria, or mocktails for a festive garnish.

Will the cranberries stay crunchy inside?

They maintain a crisp-tart bite on the inside, with a hard sugar shell on the outside when properly dried.

Conclusion

Sparkling Sugared Cranberries are an easy, eye-catching holiday treat that offers a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors. Whether used as a garnish, snack, or edible decoration, they bring a festive sparkle to everything they touch. With just a handful of ingredients, you can elevate your holiday presentation in a matter of minutes.

Sparkling Sugared Cranberries – Tart, Sweet, and Perfect for Garnish or Holiday Snacking

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Sparkling Sugared Cranberries are tart and sweet little gems coated in a crunchy sugar crust. Perfect as a festive garnish for cakes and cocktails, or simply enjoyed as a holiday snack, these cranberries add sparkle to any seasonal table.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including drying time)
Yield: 2 cups 1x
Category: Snack
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided
1/2 cup water

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Instructions

In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves to create a simple syrup. Do not boil.
Remove from heat and let the syrup cool slightly for a few minutes.
Add the cranberries to the syrup and stir to coat. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, then use a slotted spoon to transfer the cranberries to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let dry for 1 hour (they will be sticky).
Place the remaining 1 cup of sugar in a shallow dish. Working in batches, roll the sticky cranberries in the sugar until well coated.
Transfer sugared cranberries to a clean baking sheet and let dry for another hour before using or storing.