Mix cranberry juice and sugar in medium saucepan until sugar dissolves completely. Pour mixture into 9" x 12" baking dish and cool completely in freezer, approximately 30 minutes.
Add lime juice and candy canes pieces (and vodka, if desired). Blend well and return to freezer. Stir every 1 – 2 hours and keep in freezer for 4 – 5 hours, or preferably overnight.
Scoop into holiday bowls and garnish with candy canes or peppermint bark.
Notes
If it's really cold outside, double the vodka. Just sayin'!