Candied Cranberries Recipe – Viral USA Holiday Snack

Candied Cranberries – Viral USA Holiday Snack

This sparkling candied cranberries recipe is the easiest viral holiday treat you’ll make this season. Sweet, tangy, and crunchy, it’s perfect for Christmas parties, dessert boards, cocktails, and gifting.

Why Are Candied Cranberries Going Viral?

Candied cranberries are exploding on social media because they are:

• ✔️ Only 3 ingredients

• ✔️ Ready with minimal effort

• ✔️ Stunning for photos and Reels

• ✔️ Perfect for Christmas & Thanksgiving

• ✔️ Loved by TikTok and Pinterest audiences

Ingredients for Candied Cranberries

What You’ll Need (3 Ingredients)

• Fresh cranberries – 2 cups

• Sweet liquid – 1½ cups (orange juice, Prosecco, apple juice, or cranberry juice)

• Powdered sugar – 1½ cups

Optional flavor boost: orange zest, cinnamon stick, vanilla

Step‑by‑Step Candied Cranberries Recipe

Step 1 – Simmer the Cranberries

In a saucepan, add the cranberries and sweet liquid. Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil).

Cook for 5–7 minutes until the cranberries soften slightly but do not burst.

Step 2 – Drain & Cool

Remove cranberries using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack.

Let them cool for 20–30 minutes until sticky but not wet.

Step 3 – Coat with Powdered Sugar

Add powdered sugar to a bowl. Roll cranberries gently until fully coated and sparkling.

Shake off excess sugar.

Step 4 – Dry & Set

Place coated cranberries back on the rack.

Let dry for 1 hour until crunchy on the outside.

How to Use Candied Cranberries

• Holiday dessert boards

• Cocktail & mocktail garnish

• Cupcake & cake topping

• Cheese platters

• Edible holiday gifts

Pro Tips for Perfect Candied Cranberries

• Use fresh, firm cranberries only

• Do not boil — simmer gently

• Let cranberries become sticky before sugaring

• Store uncovered for best crunch

Storage Instructions

• Room temperature: 2 days

• Refrigerator: up to 5 days (may lose crunch)

• Not freezer‑friendly

Nutrition (Approximate)

• Calories: 110 per serving

• Fat: 0g

• Sugar: 26g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make candied cranberries without sugar?

No. Sugar is essential for the crunchy coating and viral texture.

2.What is the best liquid for candied cranberries?

Orange juice is most popular, but Prosecco adds a gourmet viral twist.

3.Why are my candied cranberries soggy?

They were coated before cooling or stored in an airtight container.

4.Are candied cranberries good for cocktails?

Yes! They are trending as holiday cocktail garnishes in the USA.