Sugared cranberries make a sparkling addition to cakes, drinks, and more.

They serve no actual practical purpose.

But wheres the fun in living your life thinking like a marooned sailor?

Sugared Cranberries on a small plate to serve

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Some things are just for funand sparkling cranberries are one such thing.

Thaw the frozen cranberries for a few minutes under cold running water, then pat dry.

Proceed with the recipe as directed.

Southern Living Sugared Cranberries ingredients

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

How To Make Sugared Cranberries

You wont believe how easy it is to make these cuties.

Thats it, folks!

The technical term is “more aesthetically pleasing,” but lets face itawesome is better.

Gingerbread cake with cranberry-vanilla frosting on white cake stand

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How Long Do Sugared Cranberries Last?

you’ve got the option to also freeze sugared cranberries for longer storage.

Note that the texture may be affected once the frozen cranberries are thawed.

Southern Living Sugared Cranberries in the syrup

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Remove from heat, and stir in fresh cranberries.

Cover and chill 8 to 24 hours.

Drain cranberries:

Place cranberries in a fine mesh strainer; let drain 15 minutes.

Southern Living Sugared Cranberries draining the syrup from the cranberries

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Rest cranberries:

Place in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

Let stand at room temperature until completely dry, 2 to 3 hours.

Frozen cranberries can be used for sugared cranberries, although the cranberries may wrinkle or soften slightly after thawing.

Southern Living Sugared Cranberries rolling the berries in the sugar

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Southern Living Sugared Cranberries letting the cranberries dry on parchment paper

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox