How to Make Sugar-Candied Cranberries
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If you’re looking for a simple, sparkly treat to add to your holiday table, sugar-candied cranberries are it. They’re sweet, tart, and beautiful, perfect for topping desserts, garnishing cocktails, or simply snacking on during those cozy December nights.
This easy recipe uses just a few ingredients, powdered sugar, cranberries, and a splash of orange juice and the result is a festive treat that looks like it’s been kissed by snow.
Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) bag fresh cranberries
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (plus more if needed)
Instructions
Soak the Cranberries
Place the fresh cranberries in a large bowl and pour in the juice. Gently stir or shake to mix, then cover the bowl. Refrigerate overnight to let the cranberries absorb all that bright, fruity flavor.
Drain and Coat
The next day, drain the cranberries and save the juice, it makes a delicious base for a holiday cocktail or mocktail.
Transfer the cranberries to a large zip-top bag, then add the powdered sugar. Shake gently until every cranberry is coated in a snowy layer of sweetness.
Dry in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the coated cranberries in a single layer.
Bake for 5–7 minutes, just long enough to dry the coating without melting it.
Cool and Store
Let the candied cranberries cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge or a cool pantry for up to one week.
How to Use Sugar-Candied Cranberries
- Sprinkle them on top of a cheesecake or bundt cake
- Use them to garnish cocktails or mocktails
- Add them to your holiday dessert boards
- Gift them in small jars tied with ribbon and a festive tag
A Sweet Little Holiday Touch
These sugar-candied cranberries add just the right sparkle to your Christmas season. They look beautiful on any table, taste incredible, and take almost no time to make. It’s the kind of old-fashioned holiday treat that instantly makes everything feel a little more festive.
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