Start by placing two cups of water into a medium saucepan. Add two cups of sugar into the water and stir continuously over heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. This process creates a sweet and glossy simple syrup.
While the sugar mix is cooking, place two cups of fresh cranberries into a bowl.
Once the sugar is fully dissolved, turn off the heat and pour the simple syrup over the cranberries.
Let them sit in this mixture for approximately 4 to 6 hours, or for an even richer flavor, leave them overnight.
After the soaking period, place some sugar into a bowl. Scoop out the cranberries from the simple syrup with a slotted spoon and toss them in the sugar with a spoon until they are fully coated. This step adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
Lay out the sugar-coated cranberries on a baking sheet lined with wax paper or parchment paper. Let them dry for at least 2 hours, or ideally, overnight. This ensures that the sugared cranberries develop a satisfying crunch.
Once dried, your sugared cranberries are ready to be enjoyed! Whether you savor them as a standalone snack or incorporate them into your favorite dishes, these little treats are sure to please your taste buds.