White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters Recipe
If you’re searching for a treat that’s as dazzling to look at as it is delightful to eat, look no further than White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters! This irresistible no-bake confection combines creamy white chocolate, tart cranberries, and buttery pecans in sweet, bite-sized mounds that are perfect for holiday platters, quick gifts, or sneaky snacking straight from the fridge. Each cluster is a little celebration of flavors and textures, making this recipe a must-have for anyone who loves an effortless, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up these White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters in a flash. Every ingredient plays a key role, from adding crunch and color to creating those perfect sweet-tart bites. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate (12 oz): The luscious, creamy base that brings everything together and gives each cluster its signature sweetness.
- Dried cranberries (1 cup): These jewels add a burst of tartness and a pop of festive color in every bite.
- Chopped pecans, toasted if desired (1 cup): Pecans bring a buttery crunch and nutty richness—toast them for even deeper flavor!
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Just a splash elevates the overall aroma and depth of the clusters.
- Pinch of salt: A tiny bit of salt works magic, balancing the sweetness and making every flavor sing.
How to Make White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step makes it easy to remove your clusters once they’re set and keeps the cleanup a breeze. If you want even more festive shapes, you can use a silicone mat or even mini muffin liners.
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate
Place your white chocolate chips or chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each burst. White chocolate loves to scorch, so keep an eye on it and stop as soon as it’s smooth and glossy. A gentle hand here keeps your clusters creamy and luscious.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Salt
Once your chocolate is perfectly melted, stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This duo brightens the flavors and makes the white chocolate taste even more indulgent. Don’t skip the salt—it’s the secret to making the sweetness pop!
Step 4: Mix in Cranberries and Pecans
Add the dried cranberries and chopped pecans to your melted chocolate mixture. Stir until every bit of fruit and nut is coated in the creamy chocolate. If you toasted your pecans, the warm, nutty aroma will mingle beautifully with the sweet chocolate and tangy cranberries.
Step 5: Form the Clusters
Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop generous spoonfuls of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Aim for mounds about 1.5 inches wide—just enough for a few bites of pure bliss. Don’t worry about making them perfect; the rustic look is part of the charm!
Step 6: Let Them Set
Allow your clusters to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or pop them in the fridge for 15 minutes if you’re feeling impatient. Once firm, they’re ready to eat, stack, or share. White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are at their best when the chocolate is shiny and the clusters hold their shape beautifully.
How to Serve White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters
Garnishes
Sprinkle each cluster with a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt just before the chocolate sets for a beautiful, gourmet finish. You might also scatter a few extra chopped cranberries or pecans on top for extra color and crunch—this elevates them from casual treat to show-stopping centerpiece.
Side Dishes
Pair these clusters with a cozy mug of coffee, spiced chai, or even a glass of dessert wine for an elegant after-dinner treat. They also shine alongside a fresh fruit platter or as part of a larger dessert spread for parties and holiday gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming gift, pile White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters into cellophane bags tied with ribbon, or layer them in a decorative tin between sheets of parchment. Arrange them in mini cupcake wrappers on a platter for a polished look, or stack them in a glass jar for a rustic, homemade vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If your kitchen runs warm, you can keep them in the fridge to maintain their snappy texture and prevent melty mishaps.
Freezing
These clusters freeze beautifully! Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months—perfect for prepping ahead for parties or gifting season. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters, but if you prefer a softer texture, let them sit out at room temperature for 10-15 minutes after chilling or freezing. This brings back that irresistible creamy bite without melting the chocolate.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chocolate besides white chocolate?
Absolutely! While the classic recipe highlights the creamy sweetness of white chocolate, you can substitute milk or dark chocolate for a richer twist. Each base brings its own personality, so feel free to experiment with your favorite.
Do I need to toast the pecans?
Toasting pecans is optional but highly recommended. Toasting deepens their flavor and adds a wonderful crunch. If you’re short on time, raw pecans will still taste delicious, but a quick toast in the oven or skillet takes the clusters to the next level.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Swap in different dried fruits, try almonds or walnuts instead of pecans, or even toss in some mini marshmallows or coconut flakes. The recipe is endlessly adaptable, so customize your White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters to suit your cravings.
How do I keep the chocolate from seizing or burning?
Always melt white chocolate slowly—use short microwave bursts and stir often. If you notice it thickening or looking grainy, you can gently stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil to smooth it out, but prevention is key: patience and low heat are your best friends here.
Are these clusters gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are naturally gluten-free, making them a perfect sweet treat for anyone avoiding gluten—just double-check your chocolate and dried fruits to be certain.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a recipe that’s simple, stunning, and absolutely delicious, and White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters check every box. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, I hope you’ll fall in love with their perfect blend of sweet, tart, and nutty. Go ahead—give this recipe a try and see why these clusters are a favorite in my kitchen!
Print
White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 18 clusters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully sweet and crunchy White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters, perfect for holiday treats or anytime snacking. These no-bake clusters combine creamy white chocolate with tart dried cranberries and toasted pecans for a deliciously simple dessert.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted if desired
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the clusters from sticking.
- Melt the white chocolate: Place the white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Add flavorings: Stir the vanilla extract and pinch of salt into the melted chocolate to enhance the flavor.
- Mix in the cranberries and pecans: Add the dried cranberries and chopped pecans to the melted chocolate. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with chocolate.
- Form the clusters: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping them into small clusters.
- Set the clusters: Allow the clusters to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or refrigerate for 15 minutes until firm.
- Store properly: Keep the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Try swapping pecans for almonds or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before setting for an extra burst of flavor.
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cluster
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
