Keto Dried Cranberries

If you’ve ever missed the sweet-tart bite of dried cranberries on your keto diet, you’re in for a treat! Most store-bought dried cranberries are loaded with sugar, making them unsuitable for a low-carb lifestyle. But with this easy homemade recipe, you can enjoy chewy, flavorful cranberries without the unwanted carbs. Perfect for baking, salads, or just snacking, these keto dried cranberries are naturally sweetened and packed with that delicious tartness we all love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low in carbs – Unlike store-bought versions, these cranberries are completely sugar-free.
• Versatile – Use them in baked goods, sprinkle them on salads, or enjoy them as a snack.
• Simple ingredients – Just a few keto-friendly ingredients for a guilt-free treat.
• Easy to store – Make a big batch and keep them ready for whenever you need them!

My Personal Experience

I used to love dried cranberries in my salads and baked goods, but finding a keto-friendly version in stores was nearly impossible. So, I decided to make my own. The first time, I used too much sweetener, making them overly sweet. After some trial and error, I found the perfect balance between tartness and sweetness. Now, I keep a jar of these on hand for whenever a craving hits!

Required Equipment

Baking Sheet

A flat baking sheet is perfect for evenly drying out the cranberries. Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Oven or Dehydrator

You can use an oven on low heat or a food dehydrator to slowly dry the cranberries while keeping their texture chewy.

Mixing Bowl

You’ll need this to coat the cranberries with sweetener and oil before drying them.

Wire Rack (Optional)

This helps with air circulation for even drying.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Fresh cranberries (2 cups) – The star of the show! Make sure they are fresh and firm.
• Powdered erythritol or allulose (2-3 tbsp) – A keto-friendly sweetener to balance the tartness.
• Avocado oil (1 tbsp) – Helps the sweetener stick to the cranberries and enhances texture.
• Vanilla extract (½ tsp, optional) – Adds a subtle hint of sweetness without carbs.

Substitutions:

• If you prefer a different sweetener, monk fruit or stevia can work, but allulose helps maintain a chewy texture.
• Coconut oil can be used instead of avocado oil for a slightly different flavor.

How to Make Keto Dried Cranberries

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Blanch the cranberries by boiling them in water for 1-2 minutes until they pop open. Drain and pat dry.
3. Coat with sweetener – In a bowl, toss the cranberries with powdered erythritol and avocado oil. If using vanilla extract, add it now.
4. Spread on baking sheet – Arrange the cranberries in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overlapping.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours – Stir occasionally to prevent burning. If using a dehydrator, set it to 135°F (57°C) and dry for 8-10 hours.
6. Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Tips for This Recipe

• If you prefer extra chewy cranberries, remove them from the oven a little earlier.
• If they seem too dry, rehydrate them slightly by soaking in hot water for a few minutes.
• Store in the fridge for up to two weeks, or freeze for longer storage.

Optional Additions

• Cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Orange zest for a citrusy twist.
• Liquid stevia if you want extra sweetness.

Serving Ideas

• Sprinkle over keto granola or yogurt.
• Use them in sugar-free cookies or low-carb muffins.
• Toss them into a keto salad for a sweet contrast.

Storage Recommendations

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Keep them in the fridge for up to a month.
• Freeze for up to 6 months and thaw before using.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without sweetener?
Yes! If you like extra tart cranberries, you can skip the sweetener entirely.

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry before using.

Why did my cranberries burn?
Your oven may run hot—try reducing the temperature slightly and checking more frequently.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Calories: 25
Total Carbs: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Net Carbs: 3g

I’m so excited to hear how this recipe turned out for you! 😊 Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily keto inspiration, tasty recipes, and all the support you need to crush your goals. Want to make your keto journey easier? Get a meal plan tailored to your unique needs and preferences, designed to keep you on track effortlessly. Start your personalized plan now!