In a medium saucepan, heat the water and 1/2 cup of sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches a simmer.
Add the cranberries to the saucepan, stirring gently to coat them in the syrup. Remove the pan from the heat after about a minute, ensuring all cranberries are well coated.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries to a wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet to dry for about an hour.
Once the cranberries are tacky to the touch but not wet, roll them in the remaining 1 cup of sugar until they are fully coated with a sparkling layer.