5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries

Featured in: Thanksgiving Classics

This quick preparation features fresh cranberries coated in a warm sugar syrup, then rolled in granulated sugar for a crunchy, sparkling finish. Ready in just five minutes, these vibrant treats are perfect for snacking, adding a festive touch to desserts, or gifting. The process requires only simple kitchen tools and natural ingredients, offering a bright and flavorful option that is vegan and gluten-free. Enhance flavors with optional orange zest or cinnamon for a unique twist.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 11:40:00 GMT
Vibrant 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, glistening with sugar, are perfect for festive desserts. Save to Pinterest
Vibrant 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, glistening with sugar, are perfect for festive desserts. | yummywithmia.com

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

This recipe has become a favorite in my household for holiday parties and easy snacks.

Ingredients

  • Cranberries: 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.
Sweet and tart 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries catch the light, a quick snack, fresh and delightful. Save to Pinterest
Sweet and tart 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries catch the light, a quick snack, fresh and delightful. | yummywithmia.com

My family loves gathering around to enjoy these sweet treats, especially during the holidays.

Notes

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

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.

Sugar-coated 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, the perfect homemade topping, ready in five minutes flat. Save to Pinterest
Sugar-coated 5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries, the perfect homemade topping, ready in five minutes flat. | yummywithmia.com

These express candied cranberries add a festive sparkle to any dish and are ready in minutes.

Common Recipe Questions

How do I make the sugar coating stick evenly to the cranberries?

Coat the cranberries with warm sugar syrup and allow them to become slightly tacky before rolling in granulated sugar for even coverage.

Can I add extra flavors to the coating?

Yes, adding a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest to the syrup enhances the cranberries with subtle warm or citrus notes.

What is the best way to store these candied cranberries?

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

Are these treats suitable for special diets?

They are vegan and gluten-free, made from simple natural ingredients without common allergens.

What kitchen tools are needed for preparation?

A small saucepan, mixing bowl, slotted spoon, and wire rack or parchment-lined tray are required for making these treats.

5-Minute Express Candied Cranberries

Tart cranberries coated in sparkling sugar, ideal for snacking, garnishing, or gifting in five minutes.

Prep Time
5 minutes
0
Overall Time
5 minutes
Created by Mia

Recipe Type Thanksgiving Classics

Skill Level Easy

Culinary Origin American

Total Output 8 Portion Size

Dietary Preferences Plant-Based, Dairy-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

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, stirring until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and allow to cool for about 1 minute.

Step 02

Coat Cranberries: Place cranberries in a large bowl and pour the warm syrup over them. Toss gently to ensure even coating.

Step 03

Drain and Dry: Using a slotted spoon, transfer cranberries onto a wire rack or parchment-lined tray. Allow them to rest for 2 minutes until slightly tacky.

Step 04

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

Tools Required

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

Allergy Warnings

Please review individual ingredients for potential allergens and reach out to a healthcare professional if unsure.
  • Free from common allergens; verify ingredient labels to avoid cross-contamination.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for reference only and shouldn't replace professional medical consultation.
  • Calories Count: 70
  • Fats: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 18 grams
  • Proteins: 0 grams