5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries

Featured in: Quick Meals

This fast and vibrant treat transforms tart cranberries into a crunchy delight coated in sparkling sugar. Using a quick syrup soak, the berries develop a slightly sticky surface perfect for rolling in sugar, giving each bite a satisfying crunch. Ready in just five minutes, this versatile option works well as a snack, garnish, or gift. Simple ingredients and easy steps make it accessible for all skill levels, highlighting fresh flavors without fuss.

Updated on Fri, 28 Nov 2025 12:55:00 GMT
Sparkling 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, a festive treat with glistening sugar coating, ready to enjoy. Save to Pinterest
Sparkling 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, a festive treat with glistening sugar coating, ready to enjoy. | buddybiteskitchen.com

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

I love making these candied cranberries during the holidays because they add a festive touch and are always a hit with family and friends.

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.
Vibrant red 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries coated in sugar, perfect for your holiday snacking and garnishing. Save to Pinterest
Vibrant red 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries coated in sugar, perfect for your holiday snacking and garnishing. | buddybiteskitchen.com

My family always eagerly awaits this recipe every winter, making it a cherished tradition we celebrate together.

Notes

For extra flavor, add orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon to the syrup to complement the tartness of the cranberries.

Required Tools

Small saucepan, mixing bowl, slotted spoon, and wire rack or parchment-lined tray are needed for perfect results.

Nutritional Information

Each serving contains approximately 70 calories, 0 grams of fat, 18 grams of carbohydrates, and 0 grams of protein.

Delicious, homemade 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, sweet and tart with a delightful crunchy texture. Save to Pinterest
Delicious, homemade 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, sweet and tart with a delightful crunchy texture. | buddybiteskitchen.com

This simple recipe brings a burst of flavor and festivity to any occasion, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Common Recipe Questions

How do I achieve the crunchy sugar coating?

After briefly soaking cranberries in warm syrup, roll them in granulated sugar while slightly tacky to create a crisp, sparkling shell once dried.

Can I enhance the flavor of the cranberries?

Adding orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon to the syrup lends additional warmth and depth to the tart berries.

What is the best way to store these candied cranberries?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature and consume within 24 hours to maintain crunchy texture and freshness.

Is it important to dry the cranberries before coating?

Yes, thoroughly rinsing and drying ensures the syrup adheres properly and the sugar coating forms evenly.

Can superfine sugar improve texture?

Using superfine sugar for coating creates an even crunchier and more delicate sugar shell on each berry.

5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries

Tart cranberries coated in sparkling sugar, ready in 5 minutes for snacking or garnish.

Prep Time
5 minutes
0
Total Time
5 minutes
Created By Max Buddyfield

Recipe Category Quick Meals

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Recipe Yield 8 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences Vegan-Friendly, Free of Dairy, Free of 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

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Prepare syrup: Combine 1/4 cup water and 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly for about 1 minute.

Step 02

Coat cranberries with syrup: Place cranberries in a large bowl. Pour the warm syrup over them and toss gently to ensure even coating.

Step 03

Drain and tack cranberries: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries onto a wire rack or a parchment-lined tray. Let them sit for 2 minutes to develop a tacky surface.

Step 04

Roll cranberries in sugar: Roll small batches of cranberries in the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar until completely coated. Set aside to dry for an additional 2 minutes before serving.

Tools You'll Need

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

Allergy Warnings

Review each ingredient carefully for allergens. If unsure, consult with a healthcare provider.
  • Free from common allergens. Verify ingredient labels to avoid cross-contamination.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for general information only. Always consult a healthcare professional for dietary concerns.
  • Calorie Count: 70
  • Fat Content: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 18 grams
  • Protein Content: 0 grams