These No Added Sugar Sugared Cranberries look and taste just like the sugared version that we are use to.
Made with fresh cranberries coated in a syrup flavored with orange juice, these candied cranberries have a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors in every bite.

What you will read about in this recipe.
- What are sugared cranberries so good?
- Why we love this Sugared Cranberries recipe.
- Ingredients needed to make easy sugared cranberries, without the sugar.
- Tips for making the best coated cranberries.
- How to make No Added Sugar Sugared Cranberries
- How to store No Added Sugar Sugared Cranberries
- Print the recipe for No Added Sugar Sugared Cranberries
What are sugared cranberries so good?
Sugared cranberries are basically fresh cranberries that have been coated in a sweet simple syrup and then rolled in granulated sugar.
I like how easy it is to make this recipe without actually using sugar..
Have you tried my Sugar Free White Chocolate Chip Cranberry Cookies
Those no added sugar White Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delicious holiday inspired cookies that can also be made low carb or gluten free . Both this recipe for coated cranberries and that recipe for cookies are great tasting recipes that can be made with not added sugar.
To make this recipe you will need a granular sugar alternative that can also be cooked with.
Why we love this Sugared Cranberries recipe.
These coated cranberries are a delightful and festive treat. They are especially perfect for holiday gatherings.
Here is what else we like about this recipe.
- These coated berries are both a tasty edible treat and a festive holiday decoration for your table.
- The coated berries can be served as a tasty snack or party appetizer with your cheese and crackers.
- A small amount of orange juice is added for a citrusy twist to the classic sugared cranberries.
- Personalizing these berries is as easy as using another citrus fruit or sprinkling festive spices over the 'sugared' coating.
- These festive berries also make for a nice gift idea.
- Leftovers can be used in another recipes such as decorating a cake with.
Ingredients needed to make easy sugared cranberries, without the sugar.
- Cranberries. Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water, removing any stems or debris.You can pick out cranberries that do not look as good when you do this too.
- Sugar Alternative. Use a granular sugar alternative to make this recipe. The alternative will be used for both the syrup and for rolling the cranberries in (divided).
- Water. This is used to make the syrup that will coat the berries for the granular alternative to stick to.
- Orange Zest. Added for a hint of color and flavor.
- Orange Juice. Use freshly squeezed orange juice with no added sugar.
Tips for making the best coated cranberries.
Fresh cranberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor in this recipe. If you decide to use frozen cranberries, make sure to thaw them out and then pat them dry before coating them with the syrup and sugar or the coating will not properly stick to the cranberries.
More helpful tips for you.
- A small amount of orange juice and orange zest is used to add a bit of pop to these cranberries. Feel free to omit these ingredients or substitute in another citrus instead.
- When making your syrup, be careful to not allow the syrup to boil. A gentle simmer is best for dissolving and for infusing the cranberries with 'sweetness'.
- Allowing the cranberries to soak in the syrup for at least 10-15 minutes is crucial. This step ensures that the cranberries absorb the flavors and sweetness. If your cranberries explode, the syrup was probably too warm, so it is best to keep an eye on them while they soak.
- After coating your cranberries, allow them to thoroughly dry before serving or storing. This can take 1-2 hours for the coating to set fully.
- Leftover syrup can be used in other recipes such as desserts or beverages. Simply store it in the refrigerator for later use.
- You can drop a few orange-sugared cranberries into your favorite holiday cocktails, mocktails or champagne. They not only add a pop of color but also infuse a hint of citrus sweetness into your drink.
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How to make No Added Sugar Sugared Cranberries
Prep Time: 10 minutes .
Cook Time: 5 minutes. .
Servings: 1 cup of coated berries. .
- Make the Syrup. In a medium saucepan on medium heat, combine together one cup of the granulated sugar alternative with the water and the orange juice ( you can add the zest here or as part of the coating later). Use a whisk to stir the ingredients as you bring it them to a simmer and the alternative dissolves. Then remove the the syrup from the heat and let it cool for a minute or two.
- Cranberries. Gently stir in the cranberries until they are well coated with the syrup. Then allow the cranberries to soak in the orange-infused syrup for at least 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Drain. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cranberries to a cooling rack and allow the berries to dry (about 15-20 minutes). It is a good idea to place the rack on a rimmed baking sheet that is lined with parchments paper first (easy clean up).
- Coat. In a shallow bowl, use a fork or a whisk to combine together the lemon zest with the remaining alternative. Then, in small batches, roll the cranberries into the mixture and then place them back on to your cooling rack to dry.
- Dry. Lastly, allow your orange 'sugared' cranberries to dry completely before storing (about an hour or so). They should have a nice, crystallized appearance once dry.
Expert Tip ๐ For a more savory twist, you can infuse the simple syrup with a sprig of fresh rosemary. This pairs well with the tartness of the cranberries. Or you can add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a touch of cloves to the coating for a spiced flavor.
How to store No Added Sugar Sugared Cranberries
Once the coated cranberries have fully cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container and stored at room temperature for up to a few days or refrigerator.
You may also be interested in these festive no added sugar recipes.
Print the recipe for No Added Sugar Sugared Cranberries
No Added Sugar Sugared Cranberries
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup Cranberries. --Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water removing any stems or debris
- 1ยฝ cup Sugar Alternative. --Use a granular sugar alternative to make this recipe. divided.
- 1 cup Water
- ยผ cup Orange Juice --Use freshly squeezed orange juice with no added sugar.
- 4 tsp Orange Zest
Instructions
- Make the Syrup. In a medium saucepan on medium heat, combine together one cup of the granulated sugar alternative with the water and the orange juice ( you can add the zest here or as part of the coating later). Use a whisk to stir the ingredients as you bring it them to a simmer and the alternative dissolves. Then remove the the syrup from the heat and let it cool for a minute or two.
- Cranberries. Gently stir in the cranberries until they are well coated with the syrup. Then allow the cranberries to soak in the orange-infused syrup for at least 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Drain. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cranberries to a cooling rack and allow the berries to dry (about 15-20 minutes). It is a good idea to place the rack on a rimmed baking sheet that is lined with parchment paper first (easy clean up).
- Coat. In a shallow bowl, use a fork or a whisk to combine together the lemon zest with the remaining alternative. Then, in small batches, roll the cranberries into the mixture and then place them back on to your cooling rack to dry.
- Dry. Lastly, allow your orange 'sugared' cranberries to dry completely before storing (about an hour or so). They should have a nice, crystallized appearance once dry.
Recipe Notes
Also, please see the actual recipe post for further details on this recipe. Nutritional Information is only an estimate and can vary especially with ingredients that are used. See thesugarfreediva.com for details on this recipe.
most recently updated:
November 19, 2024*About Sugar Alternatives
Specific sugar alternatives are not given in the recipes presented on this site. Only suggestions are given as to the 'kind' of alternative to use. It is up to you to select the alternative to use that suits your needs best. If the recipe is heated or cooked, it is best to use an alternative that can be heated or cooked with for best results. This site does not endorse any specific ingredients,
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Nutrition
Please note: Nutritional data has been calculated using a tool that comes with this recipe card and not by me. This means that Nutritional Information is only an estimate and can vary especially with ingredients that you use. The accuracy of this tool may differ from other tools as expected. Also note that there is no instructional value to the video that may be attached to this recipe. It is only there for visual pleasure. For more information about the images in this recipe, please refer the the recipe instructions. Thank you!
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No Added Sugar Sugared Cranberries, an easy and tasty recipe featuring berries coated with a no added sugar syrup flavored with orange.
Please see recipe post for further details on this recipe.
Gabby
A winner!
Sugar Free Diva
Glad that you liked it!