Here’s a simple and indulgent recipe for White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters—sweet, nutty, and tart, with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Perfect for gifting, snacking, or dessert tables!
🍫 White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters
Ingredients (Makes about 20–25 clusters)
- 12 oz white chocolate (good quality, chopped or chips)
- 1 cup pecan halves (toasted for extra flavor)
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional, enhances sweetness)
Instructions
1. Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes, until fragrant.
- Let them cool slightly.
2. Melt the White Chocolate
- Double boiler method: Place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add the white chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
- Microwave method: Place white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted.
- Once melted, stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using.
3. Mix in Pecans and Cranberries
- Remove the melted chocolate from heat.
- Stir in toasted pecans and dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly coated with chocolate.
4. Form the Clusters
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a spoon, drop small mounds of the chocolate-nut-cranberry mixture onto the parchment sheet.
- Gently press down to shape them into clusters if needed.
5. Chill
- Place the clusters in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.
6. Serve or Store
- Once set, transfer the clusters to an airtight container.
- Store in a cool place or refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be wrapped individually for gifting.
Tips & Variations
- Nuts: Swap pecans for almonds, walnuts, or macadamias.
- Fruit: Dried cherries, blueberries, or golden raisins work well.
- Chocolate: Mix white chocolate with a little dark or milk chocolate for a marbled effect.
- Extra Crunch: Add toasted coconut flakes or crushed pretzels for texture.
These clusters are sweet, crunchy, and tart with just the right balance of flavors. They’re effortless but look impressive on a dessert platter!
If you want, I can also give you a drizzle version where the white chocolate forms delicate strands over the clusters for a more elegant look. Do you want me to do that?
