White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters – Sweet, Crunchy, and Perfectly Festive

When it comes to simple sweets that look elegant and taste irresistible, White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are hard to beat. These no-bake treats combine creamy white chocolate, buttery toasted pecans, and tart dried cranberries into bite-sized clusters that feel festive, indulgent, and effortlessly homemade.

Perfect for holiday gifting, dessert trays, cookie swaps, and last-minute entertaining, these clusters come together with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. Despite their simplicity, they deliver big flavor—sweet, nutty, and tangy in every bite.

What makes these clusters especially appealing is their balance. White chocolate provides smooth richness, pecans add crunch and warmth, and cranberries cut through the sweetness with a bright, fruity contrast. The result is a candy that feels luxurious without being heavy or overly sweet.


Why You’ll Love These White Chocolate Clusters

These clusters are a go-to recipe for good reason:

  • No baking required
  • Only a few pantry ingredients
  • Perfect for gifting and holidays
  • Naturally gluten-free
  • Customizable with endless mix-ins

They’re beginner-friendly, kid-approved, and impressive enough for special occasions.


Ingredients

  • White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
  • Dried cranberries
  • Pecans, chopped and lightly toasted
  • Vanilla extract
  • Sea salt (optional, for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. Melt white chocolate gently using a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
  3. Stir vanilla extract into the melted white chocolate.
  4. Fold in chopped pecans and dried cranberries until evenly coated.
  5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small clusters.
  6. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt if desired.
  7. Allow clusters to set at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
  8. Once firm, transfer to an airtight container for storage.

White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters

No-bake candy clusters made with creamy white chocolate, toasted pecans, and tart dried cranberries.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 20 clusters
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz white chocolate chips
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1.5 cups pecans chopped and toasted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • optional sea salt for garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Microwave or double boiler
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Melt white chocolate until smooth.
  3. Stir in vanilla extract.
  4. Fold in pecans and cranberries.
  5. Scoop spoonfuls onto prepared sheet.
  6. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
  7. Let clusters set completely before storing.

Notes

Use toasted pecans for deeper flavor and crunch.

Tips for Perfect Clusters

  • Toast pecans lightly to enhance flavor
  • Use high-quality white chocolate for smooth melting
  • Stir gently to avoid breaking nuts too much
  • Work quickly before chocolate sets
  • Sprinkle salt while chocolate is still wet

Variations to Try

  • Dark Chocolate Version: Swap white chocolate for dark
  • Orange Cranberry: Add orange zest
  • Nut-Free: Replace pecans with pretzels or seeds
  • Holiday Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon
  • Extra Crunch: Mix in puffed rice or cornflakes

Serving & Gifting Ideas

  • Arrange on holiday dessert boards
  • Package in clear bags with ribbon
  • Serve with coffee or tea
  • Add to cookie tins
  • Use as edible gifts

Storage & Shelf Life

  • Room temperature: Up to 1 week
  • Refrigerator: Up to 2 weeks
  • Freezer: Up to 2 months

Store in an airtight container away from heat.


Cultural Context & Fun Facts

Chocolate nut clusters have long been popular in European confectionery, prized for their rustic appearance and satisfying crunch. Cranberries bring a North American twist, making these clusters a favorite during fall and winter holidays.

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