If you’re looking for the next holiday snack that’s both sweet and satisfying, you might want to try TikTok’s latest craze: candied cranberries made by Erica Kuiper. The recipe has been shared by millions of TikTok users, each adding their own flair. The simple ingredients make it accessible for home cooks. It’s a quick way to add a festive touch to any table.
Her version blends apple cider, Sprite, and a generous dusting of powdered sugar, resulting in a crunchy, sparkling treat that pops in your mouth. The combination of sweet and tart flavors creates a memorable bite. The coating gives a satisfying snap that feels like a tiny celebration. This snack is perfect for holiday parties or gift baskets.
Since its first upload in 2020, the video has amassed over 3.5 million views, and the recipe has spread across social-media feeds worldwide. The trend demonstrates how a simple recipe can capture the attention of a global audience. Fans have posted their own versions, adding spices or different liquids. The popularity shows the recipe’s adaptability.
The method traces back to Kuiper’s Russian grandmother, Lillian, who originally soaked cranberries in Champagne or prosecco before coating them in sugar. This traditional approach emphasizes the use of sparkling wine for a subtle effervescence. The coating technique preserves the fruit’s natural tartness. The recipe has evolved but keeps the core flavors.
Kuiper says her grandmother was a chef at heart. “She loved sharing recipes from her own childhood, dishes that became staples in my kitchen and later in Morgan’s … She and my grandfather owned a jewelry store in Brooklyn, New York, and they made a point to include us in every part of their lives.” Their tradition of involving family in cooking has been a cornerstone of their household.
“Tradition and culture meant everything to them,” explains Kuiper, “and those things always come to life in the kitchen – hence the cranberries.” This philosophy guided the creation of the candied cranberry recipe. The recipe reflects both heritage and modern taste. It has become a holiday staple for the family.
“You never questioned her; she was far too confident for that.” The confidence of Lillian shaped the family’s culinary approach. She believed in simple, honest ingredients. Her methods have been passed down through generations.
In Russia, the dish is called klyukva v sakhare, and Belarus produces up to 35 tons of candied cranberries each year, a tradition that dates back more than a century. The production reflects the cultural importance of candied berries in Eastern Europe. These berries are often served during holidays and special occasions. The tradition has been passed down through generations, preserving the unique flavor profile.
During the Soviet era, candied berries were sold seasonally in cardboard boxes, usually dipped in a sugar-syrup coating rather than juice or soda. The packaging was simple, reflecting the era’s utilitarian design. Consumers would often enjoy the candies as a sweet treat during winter. The method differed from modern recipes that use soda or cider.
To make the candied cranberries, first wash and pat dry the berries, discarding any soft ones that could affect texture. “She has also discovered that brands of powdered sugar with cornstarch as an ingredient seem to cause “off” flavors reminiscent of soap or floral perfume, so she suggests organic, which is more likely to be cut with tapioca starch.” After washing, pour equal parts apple cider and Sprite into a medium bowl, add the cranberries, and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours to allow the fruit to absorb the liquid. This soaking step infuses the berries with a subtle citrus and sweet flavor.
When coating, use a powdered sugar that is free of cornstarch; Kuiper recommends organic sugar because cornstarch can leave a soap-like or floral taste. Screen the fruit carefully for squishy rejects, as they can compromise the crispness and flavor of the final product. Shake the berries in excess powdered sugar until each berry is fully coated. If any sticky patches remain, add more sugar.
After shaking, bake the coated cranberries at 200 °F for five minutes to dry the coating without cooking the fruit. Leave them on the counter for a few hours to finish drying. Store the candied cranberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. They remain crunchy and flavorful when chilled.
When chilled, the berries develop a bright, tart sweetness with a satisfying snap that echoes the crunch of a candy shell. The texture is firm yet slightly chewy, with a burst of juice when you bite. The coating retains a subtle shine that makes the berries visually appealing. The combination of cider and Sprite gives a mild citrus note that balances the tartness.
Unlike many candy snacks, the candied cranberries retain fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, offering a healthier alternative to sugary treats. The natural sugars from the cranberries provide a sweet finish without the need for added glucose. The powdered sugar coating adds a light crunch while keeping the fruit moist. Nutritional benefits make the snack a thoughtful choice for holiday gatherings.
Kuiper suggests filling mason jars for gifts, labeling them, or serving them alongside fresh, uncandied berries to tease the popping experience. The jars can be decorated with ribbon or holiday stickers for a festive touch. Guests can taste a fresh berry before the candied ones, creating a contrast of flavors. Packaging also makes the treat easy to share.
She has a cookbook of her grandmother’s recipes and plans to share more on social media in days to come. The cookbook includes other dishes that reflect the family’s culinary heritage. Kuiper’s goal is to keep the tradition alive while adapting recipes for modern kitchens. She encourages others to experiment with the candied cranberry method.
The recipe’s popularity on TikTok has sparked a wave of home cooks recreating the dish in their own kitchens. Many have shared variations, such as adding ginger slices or rosemary during the soak. These tweaks add aromatic depth without altering the core technique. The trend demonstrates how a simple recipe can unite families during the holiday season.
With its blend of tradition, flavor, and social-media buzz, Erica Kuiper’s candied cranberries have become a holiday staple for many households. The recipe’s ease of preparation and vibrant taste make it a perfect addition to any festive spread. Whether you serve them as a snack or gift, the crunchy, popping berries are sure to delight. The next holiday season, the candied cranberries are poised to stay on the menu.
