I think cranberry is real winter berry. In a duet with sugar or icing sugar it can become a pleasant treat for children and grown-ups, and the whole berries will decorate even the most ordinary pie just like scarlet beads.
Sugared cranberry is a sweet which I remember from my childhood. Although its sweetness is a moot idea. I like the contrast of the flavors: sweet at the beginning and pleasantly bitter when the berry splits.
Another perfect combination is cranberry, nuts and dark chocolate. Especially if it is on the spicy shortcake. A piece of such cake will be good addition to morning coffee or evening tea. And I don't mind having it at lunch.