White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters: Sweet, Crunchy, and Irresistible

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If you’re searching for a quick, no-bake treat that combines sweet, tart, and nutty flavors, look no further than White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters. These bite-sized desserts are perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or anytime you crave a little indulgence.

Made with creamy white chocolate, crunchy pecans, and tangy dried cranberries, each cluster is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. They are incredibly easy to make, require no baking, and are versatile enough to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.

This recipe is ideal for festive gatherings because it’s visually appealing, easy to transport, and naturally portioned. Even better, they stay fresh for days when stored in an airtight container, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
  • 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • 3/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt (optional, enhances flavor)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients:
    Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Measure out chopped pecans and dried cranberries.
  2. Melt White Chocolate:
    In a heatproof bowl, melt the white chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth.
  3. Mix Ingredients:
    Once melted, stir in the pecans, cranberries, vanilla extract, and sea salt until fully combined.
  4. Form Clusters:
    Using a spoon, drop small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Shape into clusters with the back of the spoon or your fingers.
  5. Chill to Set:
    Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 30–40 minutes, or until clusters are firm and set.
  6. Serve and Store:
    Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer shelf life.

White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters

Sweet, crunchy no-bake clusters featuring white chocolate, pecans, and dried cranberries.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 clusters
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
  • 1 cup pecans roughly chopped
  • 3/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt optional

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Spoon

Method
 

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Melt white chocolate in a heatproof bowl using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
  3. Stir in pecans, cranberries, vanilla extract, and sea salt until fully combined.
  4. Drop spoonfuls of mixture onto prepared baking sheet to form clusters.
  5. Refrigerate for 30–40 minutes until clusters are firm.
  6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

These clusters are a perfect make-ahead dessert and can be customized with different nuts or dried fruits.

Tips for Perfect Clusters

  • Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized clusters, ensuring consistent texture and presentation.
  • Nut Variations: Substitute pecans with almonds, walnuts, or pistachios.
  • Fruit Options: Dried cherries or blueberries work beautifully in place of cranberries.
  • Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of orange zest for a bright, festive touch.

Variations

  • Drizzled Chocolate: Once clusters are set, drizzle with dark or milk chocolate for a professional finish.
  • Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the melted chocolate for a warm, seasonal flavor.
  • Mini Cluster Bites: Make smaller clusters for party trays or to serve as bite-sized treats with coffee or tea.

Serving Suggestions

These clusters are perfect as:

  • Holiday snack trays
  • Festive gifts in decorative jars
  • Accompaniment to coffee, hot chocolate, or tea
  • Party favors for weddings or baby showers

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

  • Cranberries are traditionally associated with fall and winter holidays and add a beautiful pop of color.
  • White chocolate, though technically not “true chocolate,” provides a creamy, sweet base that balances the tartness of cranberries.
  • Pecan trees are native to North America and have long been celebrated for their rich, buttery flavor.

Nutritional Information (per cluster, approx.)

  • Calories: 150
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Sodium: 20mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 12g

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