The viral candied cranberries recipe is a simple yet stunning holiday treat that’s taken social media by storm—and for good reason. These sparkling, sugar-coated cranberries strike the perfect balance between tart and sweet, making them ideal for holiday desserts, cheese boards, cocktails, or festive snacking. Best of all, they require just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Beautifully sparkly and festive, perfect for holidays
- Sweet, tart, and refreshing all at once
- Made with just four simple ingredients
- Versatile—use them for desserts, garnishes, or cocktails
- Easy to prep ahead for stress-free entertaining
What Are Candied Cranberries?
Candied cranberries are fresh cranberries that are soaked in a sweet liquid, then coated in sugar and gently dried. The soaking step allows the sugar to penetrate the cranberry skins, mellowing their natural tartness. Once coated, they develop a frosted, jewel-like appearance that makes them a favorite holiday garnish—and a viral hit online.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t rush the soak: The full 24 hours is essential so the cranberries absorb the liquid properly.
- Use the right powdered sugar: Avoid cornstarch-based powdered sugar, which can clump and create a chalky coating.
- Low oven temperature is key: Anything above 200°F can dry out or shrivel the cranberries.
- Shake off excess sugar before baking for the best texture and appearance.
- Let them cool completely before serving so the coating sets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Prosecco instead of 7Up?
Yes! Prosecco adds a lightly floral, grown-up flavor. Just be sure it’s fully chilled before soaking.
Can I substitute the juice?
Absolutely. Pineapple juice works beautifully, and grapefruit juice adds a bold, slightly bitter contrast.
Why can’t I use powdered sugar with cornstarch?
Cornstarch prevents the sugar from dissolving properly and can leave a dusty residue instead of a smooth coating.
Do the cranberries stay crunchy?
They’ll be slightly crisp on the outside with a juicy center—perfectly balanced, not hard.
What can I use these for?
They’re great on cakes, cupcakes, cheeseboards, salads, cocktails, or even eaten straight from the bowl.
How to Store
Store candied cranberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
How to Freeze
Freezing is not recommended. The sugar coating can dissolve once thawed, affecting both texture and appearance.
Ingredients
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries
- 2 cups 7Up (or Prosecco)
- 1 cup orange juice (or pineapple juice)
- 1 cup powdered sugar without cornstarch (use freshly ground sugar or powdered sugar with tapioca starch)
How to Make Viral Candied Cranberries
- Soak the cranberries: Combine cranberries, 7Up, and orange juice in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the liquid to fully penetrate the cranberry skins.
- Preheat oven to 200°F after soaking is complete.
- Drain the cranberries in a colander, then transfer to a large zip-top bag.
- Coat with sugar: Add powdered sugar to the bag, seal, and shake until the cranberries are fully coated.
- Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Shake off excess sugar if needed.
- Bake briefly for 5 minutes only—this sets the coating without drying out the cranberries.
- Cool completely, then transfer to a serving dish or use as desired.
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