Make the Simple Syrup

1. Heat the Water and Sugar: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a simmer for about 2-3 minutes, then remove from the heat and allow it to cool completely.

Coat the Cranberries

1. Prep the Cranberries: Rinse your fresh cranberries under cool water. Pick through them to remove any stems or soft berries.
2. Soak in Syrup: Once your simple syrup has cooled, pour it over the cranberries in a bowl. Stir gently to coat. Let the cranberries sit in the syrup for about 30 minutes to soak up all that sugary goodness.
3. Drain the Cranberries: After they’ve soaked, drain the cranberries in a fine mesh strainer to remove any excess syrup.

Sugar Coating

1. Coat with Sugar: Spread 1/2 cup of granulated sugar on a plate. Gently roll each cranberry in the sugar, making sure they’re well-coated. For a little extra sparkle, you can even roll them twice!
2. Set to Dry: Place the sugared cranberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them sit for at least 1 hour to dry and harden up.