5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries

Featured in: Sweet Cozy Treats

These candied cranberries offer a bright and tangy burst of flavor, coated in a sparkling sugar shell for delightful crunch. Ready in five minutes, they provide a quick way to add a colorful garnish or a sweet, tart treat. Simply prepare a light syrup, coat fresh cranberries, and roll them in granulated sugar to crystallize a perfect coating. Ideal for snacking, gifting, or enhancing desserts, these candied berries require minimal ingredients and no baking, making them a versatile and easy option.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 08:18:00 GMT
Sparkling, glossy 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries are coated in glittering sugar, ready to be enjoyed. Save
Sparkling, glossy 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries are coated in glittering sugar, ready to be enjoyed. | forkta.com

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

This recipe became a family favorite for holiday gifts and last-minute treats.

Ingredients

  • Main: 2 cups (200 g) fresh cranberries, rinsed and dried
  • Syrup: 1/4 cup (60 ml) water, 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • Coating: 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

Step 1:
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).
Step 2:
Place cranberries in a large bowl. Pour the warm syrup over the cranberries and toss gently to coat all berries evenly.
Step 3:
Using a slotted spoon, transfer cranberries to a wire rack or parchment-lined tray. Let them sit for 2 minutes to become slightly tacky.
Step 4:
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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We enjoy making this together at family gatherings for a quick festive treat.

Required Tools

Small saucepan, mixing bowl, slotted spoon, wire rack or parchment-lined tray

Allergen Information

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

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 70 calories, 0 g total fat, 18 g carbohydrates, 0 g protein

A close-up of vibrant 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, a quick & easy homemade snack for everyone. Save
A close-up of vibrant 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, a quick & easy homemade snack for everyone. | forkta.com

Enjoy these candied cranberries as a quick sweet treat or decorative garnish for your favorite desserts.

Recipe FAQs

How do I achieve a crunchy sugar coating?

After dipping cranberries in syrup, roll them in granulated sugar while still tacky, then let them dry to create a sparkling, crunchy shell.

Can I add other flavors to the coating?

Yes, adding orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon to the syrup enhances flavor and adds a warm, aromatic touch.

What is the best way to store candied cranberries?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature and consume within 24 hours for optimal freshness and crunch.

Are candied cranberries suitable for special diets?

These cranberries are vegan and gluten-free, fitting well into many dietary needs without common allergens.

Can I prepare candied cranberries ahead of time?

They are best enjoyed the same day but can be made a few hours ahead if stored properly to maintain texture.

5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries

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

Prep Time
5 min
0
Total Time
5 min
Created by Mia Parker


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 8 Portions

Diet Preferences Plant-Based, Lactose-Free, Gluten-Free

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

How to Make It

Step 01

Prepare sugar syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup water and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool for about one minute.

Step 02

Coat cranberries with syrup: Place cranberries into a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm syrup over the cranberries and toss gently to coat all berries evenly.

Step 03

Drain excess syrup: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the coated cranberries to a wire rack or parchment-lined tray. Allow them to sit for two minutes until slightly tacky.

Step 04

Roll cranberries in sugar: Roll small batches of the tacky cranberries in the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar until fully coated. Set aside on the rack or tray to dry for an additional two minutes before serving.

Equipment Needed

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

Allergy Details

Check every item for allergens, and check with your doctor if you’re unsure.
  • Free from common allergens. Verify ingredient labels for cross-contamination risks.

Nutrition Per Serving

For informational purposes; please consult your healthcare professional.
  • Calories: 70
  • Total Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Protein: 0 g