There’s something delightfully nostalgic about these Cranberry Snowballs—bright, tangy cranberries coated in soft powdered sugar, transforming them into tiny snowy treats. Unlike the glossy, sparkling cranberries you may have seen, these are understated but no less stunning.
With each bite, you get the satisfying pop of tart cranberries wrapped in a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth powdered sugar coating.
I first fell in love with these candied cranberries after seeing them make the rounds on TikTok and couldn’t resist adding my own twist. They’re perfect as a festive garnish, a holiday dessert, or just a fun little snack to brighten your day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy and Festive: A simple recipe that transforms ordinary cranberries into something magical.
- Powdered Perfection: The coating gives these treats their snowball-like appearance and a delicate sweetness.
- Versatile Uses: Use them as a garnish for holiday treats, a topping for desserts, or serve them on their own.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: They store well, making them a great addition to your holiday prep list.
The Story and Culture Behind the Dish:
Did you know these delightful Candied Cranberries might just have their origins in Russia? Over there, they’re called klyukva v sakhare, which translates to “cranberries in sugar,” and they’ve been a beloved treat for generations.
These little confections perfectly showcase the Russian knack for turning simple, everyday ingredients into something downright magical.
Back in the day, especially during those long, cold Russian winters when fresh fruit was hard to come by, these powdered sugar-coated cranberries were a way to preserve the tart little berries while turning them into a sweet indulgence. A layer of sugar acted as a natural preservative, keeping the cranberries edible (and delicious) for longer. Over time, they became a holiday favorite, often gifted in decorative boxes and enjoyed as a special seasonal treat.
Much like our Cranberry Snowballs, the Russian version is all about that perfect balance of tart and sweet. They take fresh cranberries, give them a bath in simple syrup for extra flavor, and then roll them in powdered sugar to create that signature snowy coating. Sound familiar? It’s proof that good food knows no borders.
Today, these powdered sugar cranberries are making a comeback, both in Russia and around the world. Their timeless appeal lies in their simplicity: just a few basic ingredients and you’ve got something beautiful, festive, and utterly delicious. Whether they’re enjoyed on their own or used as a garnish for desserts, these little snowballs are a nod to culinary traditions that value both practicality and flavor.
So, the next time you whip up a batch of these Cranberry Snowballs, you can give a little toast to Russia for inspiring such a charming and delicious holiday treat!
Equipment List:
- Airtight Container: For soaking the cranberries and locking in flavor.
- Parchment Paper: Keeps the cranberries from sticking as they dry.
- Cooling Rack or Cookie Sheet: Allows for a single-layer setup, essential for even drying.
- Ziplock Bag (Optional): Makes coating the cranberries in powdered sugar quick and mess-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Recipe:
- Fresh Cranberries: Look for firm, bright berries—they’re the base for this festive recipe.
- Tip: Use leftover cranberries for sauces or garnish other desserts.
- 7-Up: Helps plump the cranberries while adding a light sweetness.
- Orange Juice: Adds a tangy citrus note to balance the cranberries’ tartness.
- Tip: Orange zest can be added for extra flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: Creates the signature soft, snowball-like coating.
How to Make Cranberry Snowballs:
Prepare the Cranberries
Rinse the cranberries thoroughly under cold water, removing any debris. Drain completely and pat dry.
Begin the Soaking Process
Place the cranberries in an airtight container. Pour equal parts 7-Up and orange juice over the cranberries until fully submerged. Cover the container and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
Drain the Cranberries
After 24 hours, drain the cranberries completely, discarding the liquid. Let them sit for a few minutes to dry slightly.
Coat with Powdered Sugar
Transfer the drained cranberries to a ziplock bag or back into the airtight container. Add powdered sugar and gently shake to evenly coat the cranberries.
Dry and Set
Spread the powdered sugar-coated cranberries onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Let them sit at room temperature for several hours until the sugar coating hardens slightly and clings to the berries.
Store and Serve
Once the cranberries are ready, transfer them to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
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Chef Secrets & Tips:
- Double Coating for a Fluffier Look: If the sugar absorbs moisture and looks uneven, roll the cranberries in a second layer of powdered sugar after they’ve dried.
- Avoid Sticky Cranberries: Ensure the cranberries are fully drained before coating to prevent the sugar from clumping.
- Add Extra Flavor: Mix in a pinch of orange zest with the powdered sugar for a citrusy twist.
Serving Suggestions:
These Cranberry Snowballs shine as a fun, festive addition to your holiday table:
- Garnish your favorite holiday drinks or punches for a whimsical touch.
- Pair them with desserts like Pecan Pie Bars or Vanilla Pound Cake for a sweet-tart contrast.
- Serve them as a standalone party snack—guests will love the pop of tart flavor.
Commonly Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Fresh cranberries work best as they hold up better to soaking and coating. If you must use frozen, thaw and dry them completely before starting.
Q: How can I keep the sugar from melting?
A: Ensure the cranberries are well-drained and dried before coating. High humidity can also affect the sugar, so store them in a cool, dry place.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! They’ll last up to a week in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Storage Tips:
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container to preserve freshness. Store at room temperature for two days or in the fridge for up to a week.
These Cranberry Snowballs are a perfect mix of tart and sweet, with a delicate powdered sugar coating that turns them into little edible snowballs. Whether you’re adding them to your holiday desserts, using them as a pretty garnish, or simply enjoying them as a snack, this recipe is sure to bring a cozy, festive vibe to your celebrations. Get ready to impress your guests with these easy-to-make, utterly charming treats!
More Holiday Treats
Soft and Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies
These cookies are a holiday classic with their rich molasses flavor, warm spices, and a soft, chewy texture. Perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee on a chilly day!
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Fluffy pumpkin cookies sandwich a creamy spiced filling in this delightful treat. They’re like little bites of autumn, perfect for sharing or indulging yourself.
Honey Spice Bars
Sweet and fragrant with the cozy flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, these bars are a nostalgic nod to traditional spiced desserts. A drizzle of icing takes them over the top.
Czech Apple Strudel
Thin, flaky pastry wraps around a filling of tender apples, cinnamon, and sugar in this old-world favorite. It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make.
Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies
Buttery, crunchy, and lightly sweet, these timeless cookies are great on their own or accompanied with a hot cup of coffee!
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Candied Cranberries
Ingredients
- 1 (12-oz) bag cranberries
- 1 (12-oz) can 7-Up or Sprite
- 2 cups Orange Juice
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Prepare the Cranberries
- Rinse the cranberries thoroughly under cold water.
- Drain them completely to remove excess water.
Begin the Soaking Process
- Place the rinsed and drained cranberries into an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid.
Marinate in Liquid Mixture
- Mix equal parts 7-Up and orange juice (OJ) to create the soaking liquid.
- Pour the mixture over the cranberries, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Seal the container and place it in the refrigerator for 24 hours to soak.
Drain the Cranberries
- Remove the container from the refrigerator.
- Drain the cranberries thoroughly, discarding the liquid.
Coat the Cranberries with Powdered Sugar
- Transfer the drained cranberries back into the same airtight container or into a large ziplock bag.
- Add powdered sugar to the cranberries.
- Shake the container or bag gently but thoroughly to evenly coat the cranberries with the sugar.
Harden the Sugar Coating
- Let the cranberries sit at room temperature for several hours until the sugar coating hardens.
Store the Finished Cranberries
- Once the cranberries are fully set, transfer them to an airtight container.
- Room Temperature Storage: Store on the counter for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerated Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Enjoy your sweet and tangy sugar-coated cranberries!
Nutrition
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You don’t have to bake these?
Hi Michelle! No, you don’t. Just lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet at room temperature for a couple of hours and the powdered sugar coating will harden around them. Refrigerate leftovers for up to a week in an airtight container or zip top bag. There are some recipes that bake them in the oven for 5 minutes, but this is only to speed up the drying process. I don’t like this method, because depending on your oven, some of the cranberries get cooked and turn mushy.