White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are a simple yet elegant no-bake treat combining creamy white chocolate with tart dried cranberries and crunchy pecans. These festive clusters are easy to make and perfect for holiday gifting, parties, or anytime when you want a sweet, satisfying snack with a beautiful balance of flavors and textures.
You will love how the smooth, sweet white chocolate coats every bite-sized cluster, holding the tart cranberries and nutty pecans together. They are quick to prepare and give the perfect mix of sweetness, crunch, and festive flair.
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
How to Create Your White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters
Step 1: Melt the White Chocolate
Place white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until completely smooth and melted.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
Stir the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, vanilla extract, and salt into the melted white chocolate. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 3: Form the Clusters
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the sheet, shaping clusters to your desired size. Leave space between clusters to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Set the Clusters
Allow the clusters to set at room temperature for about 1 hour. To speed up setting, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Store
Once firm, serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to keep clusters fresh.
My Best Tips for These Clusters
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Use high-quality white chocolate for smooth melting and rich flavor.
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Avoid fresh cranberries they add moisture and can affect texture.
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Gently fold nuts and fruit to avoid breaking the chocolate too much.
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Line your baking sheet with parchment for easy cluster removal.
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Refrigerate briefly if you want to speed up firming time.
Delicious Variations to Try
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Add mini marshmallows for a fun, chewy contrast.
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Mix in chopped dried apricots or cherries for variety.
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Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios.
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Drizzle extra white or milk chocolate over set clusters for decoration.
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Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do the clusters keep?
They keep well at room temperature up to a week and longer if refrigerated.
Can I melt white chocolate on the stovetop?
Yes, using a double boiler gently melts chocolate without burning.
Can I make these vegan?
Use vegan white chocolate and ensure dried fruit does not contain gelatin.
Can I add other nuts or seeds?
Absolutely, customize with your favorites.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Avoid water contact during melting and use dry utensils.
Can these be gifted?
Yes, pack in decorative tins or bags for beautiful homemade gifts.
Print
White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters
- Total Time: 70
- Yield: 18-20 clusters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elegant no-bake clusters combining creamy white chocolate, tart dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans perfect bite-sized festive treats.
Ingredients
2 cups white chocolate chips
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt (optional)
Instructions
Melt white chocolate: Microwave chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Mix ingredients: Fold in cranberries, pecans, vanilla, salt until fully coated.
Form clusters: Drop spoonfuls onto parchment-lined baking sheet.
Set clusters: Let harden at room temp 1 hour or refrigerate 15-20 minutes.
Serve or store: Enjoy immediately or store airtight up to 1 week or refrigerate longer.
Notes
Use quality white chocolate.
Use dried cranberries, not fresh.
Fold gently to keep chocolate coating intact.
Optional flaky sea salt on top adds sweet-salty contrast.
Perfect for gifting.
- Prep Time: 10
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American / Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cluster (1/20 recipe)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 2 mg
Keywords: white chocolate cranberry pecan clusters, holiday candy recipe, no bake clusters, easy edible gift, sweet and salty snack
