Irresistible White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters: Quick & Easy Treats
Irresistible White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters: Quick & Easy Treats
There’s something magical about simple treats that bring people together, and these White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are exactly that. I remember the first time I made them—it was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and the kitchen smelled like sweet white chocolate and roasted pecans. I had a small bowl of dried cranberries on the counter, and with just three ingredients, something so delightful came to life. These clusters are the kind of snack that instantly evokes warm memories, like sharing homemade goodies with family during the holidays or sneaking a few while curled up with a good book.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy equipment or hours of prep time—just a microwave, a mixing bowl, and your three star ingredients. Yet the result feels indulgent, almost luxurious. The creamy white chocolate coats the tart cranberries and crunchy pecans perfectly, creating a balance of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert to impress guests, a homemade gift for a loved one, or just a little treat to enjoy on your own, these clusters hit the spot.
Making them also brings a sense of creativity and freedom. You can adjust the cluster size, sprinkle on a bit of sea salt, or even experiment with other nuts or dried fruits to suit your taste. But honestly, the classic combination of white chocolate, cranberries, and pecans is a winner every single time. The best part? No baking is required, making this a fantastic last-minute treat for any occasion.
White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters
Ingredients:
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1 cup white chocolate, melted
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1 cup dried cranberries
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1 cup pecans, chopped
Directions:
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Begin by melting the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted white chocolate, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. Stir until all ingredients are well coated with the chocolate.
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop clusters of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
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Refrigerate the clusters for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.
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Once set, enjoy your delicious white chocolate cranberry pecan clusters or store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 12 clusters
Tips:
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For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the clusters before refrigerating.
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Use high-quality white chocolate for a smoother and richer flavor.
Cooking Tips & Substitutions
If you want to switch things up, don’t hesitate to get creative with this recipe. You can replace pecans with walnuts, almonds, or cashews depending on your preference. For a more decadent twist, drizzle a little dark chocolate over the clusters once they’ve set—it adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the white chocolate.
Be sure to stir the melted white chocolate thoroughly to avoid clumps. Using a silicone spatula works best for folding in the cranberries and nuts without breaking them apart. You can also gently toast the pecans in a dry skillet before adding them to the chocolate for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Ideas & Occasions
These clusters are perfect for gifting in cute boxes or jars during the holidays. They’re also a quick sweet snack to have on hand for after-school munchies or office treats. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy afternoon, or include them on a dessert platter for parties—they’re always a hit!
Storage & Freezing Tips
White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters store beautifully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, simply refrigerate them for up to two weeks. For longer storage, they freeze wonderfully—place them in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking, and thaw them at room temperature before serving.
FAQ
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
A: Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give a richer, slightly sweeter flavor, though the tartness of the cranberries pairs best with the creamy sweetness of white chocolate.
Q: Can I make these clusters nut-free?
A: Yes! You can substitute the pecans with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or simply omit them entirely for a chewy, fruity treat.
Q: How long do the clusters last?
A: Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they last about a week. Refrigerating can extend their shelf life to two weeks.
Q: Can I double or triple the recipe?
A: Definitely. Just make sure to use a large enough mixing bowl and give yourself a bit more time to portion the clusters onto the baking sheet.
