Description
You have found the shockingly simple, no-bake treat that is equal parts sweet, tangy, nutty, and rather addictive! Little tastes of heaven, these White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters combine crunchy pecans, chewy dried cranberries, and creamy white chocolate in one delightful bite. Perfect for Christmas presents, snack time, or simply since you deserve a treat—which, believe me, you do. The best thing is that together in minutes, they have just five components!
The Reason You Will Love This Recipe
- Just melt, stir, scoop, and chill for Super Easy & No-Bake. That’s it.
- Perfect Sweet & Salty Combo: The acidic cranberries and nutty pecans go very nicely with the creamy white chocolate.
- Perfect for gifts; these small clusters look great yet require little work. Perfect for a kind homemade present or holiday cookie boxes!
- Customize by substituting almonds for pecans, sprinkling cinnamon, or drizzling with dark chocolate for a different take.
Ingredients
These delicious clusters require just five basic ingredients:
- 12 oz white chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
👉 The recipe card below has a full ingredient list together with measurements.
Making White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters
Melt the white chocolate in the first step.
Add the white chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl. Stir carefully in between; microwave in 30-second increments until the chocolate is smooth and totally melted.
Second: Combine Everything.
Add the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, vanilla essence, sea salt—if using—once the chocolate has melted. Make sure everything has that creamy white chocolate glory covered equally!
The third step is cluster formation.
Paced parchment paper on a baking sheet. Drop little mixture clusters—using a spoon or small cookie scoop—on the sheet. Leave some room between them so they won’t stay together.
Step 4: Let Them Set
About thirty minutes or until the clusters are firm and set, pop the baking sheet into the refrigerator.
Step 5: Fun!
Once set, carefully pull the clusters out of the parchment paper. Store them in an airtight jar at room temperature or in the refrigerator—if they keep that long!
Pro Advice on Creating the Recipe
- Utilize premium white chocolate. Go for a reputable brand that melts smoothly since white chocolate can occasionally be temperamental.
- The chocolate shouldn’t get overheated! To prevent burning, gently melt it in the microwave, stirring in between.
- Make them especially festive. For a holiday-ready variation, toss some crushed candy canes or drizzle dark chocolate.
- Distance counts. For consistent clusters, use a small cookie scoop; if you want a more decadent taste, make larger ones.
- Want to switch things up? Try using almonds or walnuts! Check out this guide on the healthiest nuts to find your perfect match
Serving Methods
White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are quite flexible! You can appreciate them like this:
- On a dessert platter, team them with brownies, cookies, and other holiday fare.
- With Coffee or Tea—The ideal small sweet snack beside your preferred warm beverage.
- Pack them in a lovely tin or gift bag as a holiday gift for a simple handcrafted surprise.
- Crumble a couple over vanilla ice cream for a rather unique treat!
Make Ahead and Organization for Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store these clusters, at room temperature in an airtight container, for up to one week. Stow them in the refrigerator to maintain their firmness if your kitchen is warm.
Refining
Would you like to prepare a batch ahead of time? Not bad! After single-layer freezing them on a baking sheet, move them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to three months; just let them arrive at room temperature before consuming.
Reshaping
Not at all necessary to reheat Just grab something to eat. If they have been in the refrigerator, let them come room temperature for a few minutes to gently soften before eating.
FAQs
Using other nuts instead of pecans is possible.
Right! These clusters might call for almonds, walnuts, or possibly cashews. Just be sure they’re cut into bite-sized bits.
Could I instead melt the chocolate on a stovetop?
Sure! Apply a double boiler technique: cover a pot of simmering water with a heatproof bowl and stir the chocolate till melted. This keeps overheating under control.
Can I add spices or coconut or another mix-in?
Indeed. Extra depth for these clusters can come from shredded coconut, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a bit of nutmeg.
How might I stop white chocolate from seizing?
White chocolate may be challenging. Even a drop of water can cause your bowl and spoon to seize up; hence, be sure they are absolutely dry. Should that occur, whisk vigorously, adding a teaspoon of vegetable or coconut oil to help to smooth it out.
White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz white chocolate chips Use high-quality chocolate for best results.
- 1 cup dried cranberries Adds a tart contrast to the sweet chocolate.
- 1 cup pecans, chopped Gives the clusters a crunchy texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the sweetness of the chocolate.
- 1/4 tsp sea salt (optional) Balances the sweetness and adds depth of flavor.
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
- Stir in the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and sea salt (if using) until everything is evenly coated.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop clusters of the mixture onto the baking sheet.
- Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until the clusters are fully set and firm.
- Once set, remove the clusters from the parchment paper and store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
This was fantastic!