White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters

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White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters – Sweet, Crunchy & Holiday-Ready

Creamy white chocolate, tart cranberries, and buttery pecans come together in these irresistible no-bake clusters.

Introduction: A Festive Treat That’s Almost Too Easy

Some recipes are so simple, they feel like magic. These White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are one of those gems. With just five ingredients and zero baking, you get a treat that’s crunchy, creamy, sweet, and just a little tart. They’re perfect for holiday parties, edible gifts, or a cozy night in with a cup of tea.

The combination of silky white chocolate, chewy dried cranberries, and crisp pecans is a flavor and texture dream. And because they’re made in minutes and set quickly, they’re ideal for last-minute entertaining or batch-making for cookie tins.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these clusters so addictive:

Base:

  • White chocolate chips (12 oz)
    Smooth and creamy—choose high-quality chips for best flavor and texture.

Tip: You can also use white chocolate bars chopped into pieces.

Mix-Ins:

  • Dried cranberries (1 cup)
    Tart and chewy—balances the sweetness of the chocolate.
  • Pecan halves (1 cup)
    Buttery and crunchy—adds richness and texture.

Optional: Toast pecans lightly for deeper flavor.

Flavor Enhancers:

  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
    Adds warmth and rounds out the sweetness.
  • Sea salt (pinch)
    Enhances all the flavors and adds a subtle contrast.

Optional: Use flaky sea salt for a gourmet finish.

Equipment Needed

  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking sheet or tray
  • Refrigerator (optional for faster setting)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Place 12 oz white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.

Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.

Tip: Avoid overheating—white chocolate can seize easily.

Step 2: Add Flavor

Stir in:

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt

Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Fold in Mix-Ins

Add:

  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup pecan halves

Stir gently until everything is evenly coated in the melted chocolate.

Optional: Add a handful of mini marshmallows or crushed pretzels for extra texture.

Step 4: Form the Clusters

Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Space them slightly apart to prevent sticking.

Tip: Use a cookie scoop for uniform size.

Step 5: Set & Serve

Let clusters cool at room temperature until firm—about 30–45 minutes.

Or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes for faster setting.

Once set, transfer to an airtight container.

Yields:

  • 18–24 clusters, depending on size

Presentation Tip: Serve in mini cupcake liners or wrap in cellophane bags with ribbon for gifting.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Holiday cookie trays
  • Edible gifts
  • Party favors
  • Afternoon snacks

Pair with:

  • Hot cocoa or peppermint tea
  • Sparkling cider or mulled wine
  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Tip: Serve chilled for extra crunch.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Citrus Twist

Add orange zest to the melted chocolate.

Coconut Crunch

Fold in shredded coconut or coconut flakes.

Dark Chocolate Swap

Use dark or milk chocolate instead of white.

Nut Medley

Use a mix of almonds, walnuts, and pistachios.

Vegan Version

Use dairy-free white chocolate and plant-based mix-ins.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 1 week in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 10 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp before serving.

Tip: Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Notes (Per Cluster, ~1 of 20)

  • Calories: ~140
  • Protein: ~2g
  • Carbohydrates: ~16g
  • Fat: ~8g
  • Sugar: ~12g
  • Sodium: ~40mg
  • Fiber: ~1g

These clusters are:

  • Sweet and creamy
  • Tart and crunchy
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and festive joy. Whether you’re making them for a crowd or just for yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress and satisfy. With their elegant look and irresistible taste, they’re the kind of recipe that becomes a holiday tradition.

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