Easy Homemade Sugared Cranberry Garland for Holiday Boards
A simple, budget-friendly holiday decoration made from sugared cranberries threaded on twine. This edible garland adds instant festive charm to any table or mantle and comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 garland (approximately 30-40 cranberries) 1x
- Category: Holiday Decoration
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries (1 bag)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3–4 feet kitchen twine or cotton string (food-safe, unbleached)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse cranberries in a colander under cold water. Discard any soft or blemished berries. Pat completely dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together egg whites and water until frothy and well combined. Add vanilla extract if using.
- Place dried cranberries in a large mixing bowl. Pour egg white mixture over them and gently toss until every cranberry is coated.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar over the coated cranberries. Toss until each berry is completely covered in sugar.
- Spread sugared cranberries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch. Let dry at room temperature for 15-20 minutes until sugar coating feels dry to the touch.
- Cut kitchen twine to desired length, adding 6 inches extra on each end for tying. Thread a needle with the twine. Starting 3 inches from one end, push the needle through the center of each cranberry, leaving about ½ inch between each. Continue until all cranberries are used or desired length is reached.
- Leave about 3 inches of empty twine at the end. Tie a simple knot at both ends to prevent cranberries from sliding off. Optionally, create small loops at each end for easy hanging.
Notes
Ensure cranberries are completely dry before coating to prevent sticky sugar. For vegan version, substitute egg whites with aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas). If humidity is high, use a fan to speed up drying. For extra sparkle, dust with edible glitter after sugar sets. Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 5 days. Can freeze unthreaded sugared cranberries for up to a month.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10-12 cranberries
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 15
- Carbohydrates: 21
- Protein: 1
Keywords: sugared cranberry garland, holiday decoration, edible garland, cranberry craft, Christmas decoration, Thanksgiving decoration, easy holiday craft