Okay, flavor adventurers, gather ’round! Let me tell you about the moment my world changed forever. I was at a holiday party, drowning in the usual sugar-laden treats, when BAM! I tasted something that made my taste buds sing. It was a No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries.
They weren’t just sweet; they were tart, tangy, and had this irresistible crunch that made me want to devour the whole bowl. That’s when I knew I had to create my own version. A version that was just as addictive, but without the guilt.
This journey to perfect the No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries recipe was wild! There were some MAJOR fails (think: rock-hard cranberries and flavorless disasters). But then, the breakthrough happened. I discovered the secret to getting that perfect balance of sweet and tart, without any added sugar.
The result? A No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries that’s so good, it’s borderline criminal. It embodies everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, unapologetic indulgence, and making every day a celebration. And now, I’m exploding with excitement to share this recipe with YOU! Get ready to transform your kitchen into a culinary playground, because these sugar-free cranberries are about to rock your world!
INGREDIENTS You Need for This:
This ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and crunchy. Let’s dive in!

- 12 ounces fresh cranberries: Fresh is non-negotiable for that vibrant tartness.
- 1/2 cup erythritol: This is our sugar-free superhero! It provides the sweetness without the sugar crash.
- 1/4 cup water: Just enough to create a luscious syrup.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup xylitol sugared cranberries powder: This gives that signature “sugared” look and feel.
Here’s the game-changer ingredient! While erythritol is great for sweetness, the xylitol sugared cranberries powder is what gives that authentic “sugared” coating without any added sugar.
You’ll find the best cranberries at your local grocery store during the holiday season. Stock up, because you’ll be making these all year long! Splurge on a high-quality vanilla extract for an extra boost of flavor – trust me, it makes all the difference in the No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to erythritol, you can use stevia, but start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste. Remember, the key is to find what works best for your palate! Keep those cranberries fresh by storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to get your sugar-free cranberry on.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Alright, flavor adventurers, let’s get this party started! Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying your own batch of No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries in no time. Don’t stress – your cranberries are going to be incredible!
- Combine erythritol and water: In a medium saucepan, combine the erythritol and water. Stir over medium heat until the erythritol is completely dissolved. We’re creating our sugar-free syrup base here.
- Add cranberries: Add the fresh cranberries to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer and crack: Gently simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until most of the cranberries have burst and softened. The cracking is your signal!
- Stir in vanilla and salt: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. This is where the magic happens!
- Cool completely: Pour the cranberry mixture into a bowl and let it cool completely. This step is crucial for the “sugared” coating to adhere properly. I like to chill my No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries in the fridge to speed up this process.
- Drain excess liquid: Once cooled, drain the cranberries in a colander, discarding the excess liquid. We don’t want soggy cranberries!
- Coat with xylitol sugared cranberries powder: Place the drained cranberries in a bowl and sprinkle with the xylitol sugared cranberries powder. Gently toss to coat evenly. Your No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries should look like they’re covered in a glistening, sugary snow.
- Dry on a baking sheet: Spread the coated cranberries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them dry for about 1-2 hours, or until the coating is set. This is where most people mess up their No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries – but not you! Patience is key!
- Enjoy: Your No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries are ready to blow your tastebuds away!
Pro tip for No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries perfection: Don’t overcrowd the pan when simmering the cranberries. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. In my kitchen, this No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries recipe takes exactly 47 minutes from start to finish. Your No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries should look plump, slightly shriveled, and coated in a sparkly xylitol sugared cranberries.
While your No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries are working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold! I love adding a bit of orange zest to the xylitol sugared cranberries coating for an extra layer of flavor. Efficiency hack: Use a silicone spatula to toss the cranberries – it helps prevent them from sticking.
PRESENTATION:
Presentation is everything! You’ve worked hard to create these delicious No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries, so let’s make them shine!
To present these little flavor bombs for maximum impact, pile them high in a crystal bowl or arrange them artfully on a platter. A sprinkle of extra xylitol sugared cranberries powder never hurts!
- Holiday gatherings: They’re a festive and healthy addition to any table.
- Gifting: Package them in cute little jars for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Snacking: Keep a bowl on your counter for a guilt-free treat.
For Instagram-worthy plating, try layering the No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries on top of a white chocolate cheesecake or scattering them around a roast turkey. People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries at Thanksgiving dinner. I’ve seen grown adults fight over the last cranberry!
Got leftovers? Don’t let them go to waste! Chop them up and add them to muffins, scones, or even a savory stuffing. This No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries absolutely slays at dinner parties! In the spring, I even use them as a topping for sugar-free ice cream.
Experiment with seasonal variations! Try adding cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm, wintery flavor, or lemon and rosemary for a bright, springy twist. The possibilities are endless with sugar-free cranberries!
FAQs:
Got questions? I’ve got answers! I’ve tested this No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries recipe countless times, and I’m here to help you troubleshoot any challenges you might encounter.
I remember one time, a flavor adventurer in our community told me she added a splash of orange liqueur to the erythritol syrup – genius! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make these sugar-free cranberries your own.
CONCLUSION:
This No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries recipe represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, guilt-free indulgence, and making every day a celebration. I’m so proud to share this recipe with you, and I know you’re going to love it!

- Fresh is Best: Always use fresh cranberries for the most vibrant flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Simmer the cranberries in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Patience is Key: Allow the cranberries to cool completely before coating for optimal adherence.
- Spiced Cranberries: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for a warm, wintery flavor.
- Citrus Cranberries: Incorporate lemon, orange, or lime zest for a bright, zesty twist.
- Rosemary Cranberries: Infuse the erythritol syrup with fresh rosemary for a savory-sweet combination.
The Spiced Cranberries get the biggest reactions at my holiday parties!
I have complete confidence in your cooking success! This No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. A chance to create memories, share joy, and indulge in bold flavors without the guilt. Make this your signature dish! This No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries is a delicious alternative to Not Sugared Cranberries – Healthy Living How To.
Now go forth, flavor adventurers, and create some No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries magic! And don’t forget to share your results! Show me your sparkling creations and let me know what flavor combinations you’ve discovered.
This recipe is great, but if you want sugar free dried cranberries, try this recipe: Sugar Free Dried Cranberries. For more bold flavor adventures, check out my No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries recipe.
And if you loved the kick of this cranberry recipe, you HAVE to see what the kick of this Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash recipe could do for you! For an alternative method, try this Dried Cranberries (Sweet Or Unsweetened) – Wholesome Yum.
I’m excited to bring these sugar-free cranberries to the next party, and for an extra touch try my Apple Crisp with Brown Sugar Pecan recipe. Remember, life’s too short for boring food. Let’s make some memories! 🔥✨
No-Added-Sugar Sugared Cranberries
Enjoy the festive flavor of sugared cranberries without the added sugar! These naturally sweetened treats are tart, sweet, and perfect for holiday snacking or garnishing desserts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup erythritol (or other sugar substitute)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup erythritol (for coating)
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries and pick out any soft or damaged ones.
- In a saucepan, combine 1/4 cup erythritol and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the erythritol is dissolved.
- Add the cranberries and lemon juice to the saucepan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the cranberries start to soften slightly.
- Remove from heat and let the cranberries cool in the syrup for about 30 minutes, or until slightly plumped.
- Drain the cranberries, reserving the syrup (optional, for drinks or other uses).
- Place the 1/2 cup of erythritol in a shallow dish.
- Roll the drained cranberries in the erythritol until completely coated.
- Place the sugared cranberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet to dry for at least 1 hour, or until the coating hardens.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
For a festive touch, use different colored sugar substitutes or natural food coloring to coat the cranberries.