White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters

If you are looking for a no bake treat that is both festive and impossibly easy these white chocolate cranberry pecan clusters deliver crunchy sweet creamy and just the right pop of tartness They are the kind of homemade confection that looks fancy but comes together in minutes with just a handful of ingredients so they are perfect when you want something special quick

The first time I made these clusters I needed a last minute potluck dessert and everyone asked for the recipe Now they are a holiday staple at our house and my kids get excited when they see the tray in the fridge

Ingredients

• White chocolate chips: the melt smooth and creamy stick with a good brand for flavor
• Dried cranberries: give a tangy chew if possible pick ones that look soft and plump
• Roughly chopped pecans: offer a toasty crunch use fresh pecan halves and chop them yourself for best flavor
• Vanilla extract: deepens the flavors and brings warmth use pure extract not imitation
• Sea salt: finishes each cluster with a pop of flavor look for flaky or coarse salt not regular table salt

Instructions

Prep the pan:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the clusters will not stick and clean up is easy

Melt the chocolate:

Place white chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl Heat in 30 second bursts stirring thoroughly each time Repeat until smooth and fully melted Do not overheat or the chocolate may seize

Stir in the flavor:

Add vanilla extract to the melted chocolate mixing well for even flavor distribution

Fold in mix-ins:

Gently stir in the dried cranberries and chopped pecans All the pieces should be completely coated in chocolate

Form the clusters:

Using a spoon drop mounds of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet Each cluster should be about two bites Spread them out so they do not touch

Add the finish:

Sprinkle a light pinch of sea salt over each cluster while they are still sticky The salt sticks better this way

Chill to set:

Place the baking sheet in the fridge for at least thirty minutes until the clusters are firm and set

Store and enjoy:

Once the clusters are solid lift them off the parchment and transfer to an airtight container Either keep them chilled for a snappier bite or store at room temperature for a softer texture

Pecans are my go to nut because they toast up buttery and fragrant and the contrast with sweet melted chocolate is incredible I still remember my daughter sneaking her first cluster off the tray before it set and declaring it better than store bought candy

Storage Tips

Keep clusters in an airtight container so they stay fresh You can refrigerate them for a firmer texture or keep them at room temperature for a softer bite If it is humid or warm store in the fridge to avoid melting Clusters keep for about ten days in the refrigerator

Ingredient Substitutions

No pecans Try walnuts or almonds instead For crunch with allergy friendly flair try roasted pumpkin seeds For dried fruit cherries or blueberries work nicely with white chocolate If you want to skip the sea salt dust clusters with a little orange zest

Serving Suggestions

These clusters are perfect with coffee or tea for a holiday treat They also dress up a cookie tray or dessert board Add them to goodie bags or wrap a few in cellophane for edible holiday gifts

Cultural or Historical Context

Chocolate nut clusters are classic confections often made with bittersweet chocolate and peanuts This white chocolate version with cranberries and pecans has a modern American twist bringing in those rich holiday flavors and colors

Seasonal Adaptations

Cranberries and pecans make this feel wintry and festive For autumn use dried apples and cinnamon sprinkled on top Springtime clusters can swap in pistachios and dried apricots for a lighter feel

Success Stories

My neighbor made these with her kids over winter break It became their new favorite kitchen project and they enjoyed making edible gifts for teachers I think that ease and fun is what home treats are all about

Freezer Meal Conversion

Clusters freeze beautifully Arrange on a baking sheet to flash freeze then transfer to freezer bags Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy and they are nearly as good as fresh

These easy clusters are a must for the holidays They are simple to make and always disappear fast

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?

Melt chocolate gently in short intervals, stirring between each, to avoid overheating and clumping.

→ Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?

Yes, walnuts, almonds, or cashews offer unique flavor and texture options in place of pecans.

→ Should clusters be stored in the fridge?

Store clusters in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for extended freshness.

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Milk or dark chocolate may be used for a richer flavor profile or to suit personal taste preferences.

→ How long do clusters stay fresh?

When stored properly, clusters remain delicious for up to one week at room temperature or two weeks refrigerated.