5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries

Featured in: Snack Time Heroes

This quick and easy preparation showcases tart cranberries enveloped in a sparkling sugar coating, offering a bright, crunchy texture. By simmering a simple syrup and letting the berries absorb the sweetness, the cranberries get evenly coated before rolling in sugar for a crisp finish. Ideal for snacking, garnishing desserts, or gifting, this vibrant treat comes together in just 5 minutes with minimal steps and simple ingredients.

Enhance flavors with optional additions like orange zest or cinnamon to personalize the sweetness and aroma. Best enjoyed the same day for optimal crunch, these candied cranberries bring a fresh burst of color and flavor to your culinary creations.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 08:38:00 GMT
Sparkling 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, coated in glistening sugar for a perfect holiday snack. Save
Sparkling 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, coated in glistening sugar for a perfect holiday snack. | williesnack.com

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

This has become my go-to festive garnish and snack that adds a pop of color and sweetness to any occasion.

Ingredients

  • Fresh cranberries: 2 cups (200 g), rinsed and dried
  • Water: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
  • Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g) for syrup
  • Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g) 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.
Ruby red, glistening 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries ready for snacking or as a dessert garnish. Save
Ruby red, glistening 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries ready for snacking or as a dessert garnish. | williesnack.com

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

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 70 Total Fat 0 g Carbohydrates 18 g Protein 0 g

Easy, vibrant 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries: a sweet and tart treat ready in mere minutes. Save
Easy, vibrant 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries: a sweet and tart treat ready in mere minutes. | williesnack.com

This quick recipe delivers festive flavor and texture in minutes perfect for last-minute treats.

Recipe Questions & Answers

How do I achieve a crunchy sugar coating on cranberries?

After briefly soaking cranberries in warm sugar syrup, roll them in granulated sugar while slightly tacky to create a sparkling, crunchy shell that dries quickly.

Can I add flavors to the sugar syrup for extra taste?

Yes, adding orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon to the syrup infuses aromatic notes that complement the tartness of the cranberries.

What is the best way to dry the coated cranberries?

Place the sugar-coated berries on a wire rack or parchment-lined tray at room temperature for a few minutes until the coating sets and becomes crisp.

How long can candied cranberries be stored?

For best texture, consume the candied cranberries within 24 hours stored in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunch.

Are these cranberries suitable for dietary restrictions?

Yes, this preparation is vegan, gluten-free, and free from common allergens, making it suitable for many dietary needs.

5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries

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

Prep time
5 min
0
Total duration
5 min
Created by Willie Cooper


Skill level Easy

Cuisine American

Total yield 8 Number of servings

Dietary notes Plant-based, 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

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, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool for 1 minute.

Step 02

Coat Cranberries: Place cranberries in a large bowl. Pour warm syrup over them and toss gently to evenly coat all berries.

Step 03

Drain Excess Syrup: Using a slotted spoon, transfer cranberries onto a wire rack or parchment-lined tray. Let rest for 2 minutes until slightly tacky.

Step 04

Sugar Coating: Roll cranberries in the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar until thoroughly coated. Allow to dry for 2 minutes before serving.

Tools you'll need

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

Allergy details

Review ingredients for potential allergens and ask a medical expert if unsure.
  • Free from common allergens; verify ingredient labels for cross-contamination risks.

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutritional info is for reference only. For health questions, check with a medical professional.
  • Energy: 70
  • Fats: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Proteins: 0 g