White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters Recipe

Introduction

These White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are the perfect quick and easy treat for the holiday season or any time a sweet craving strikes. Requiring just a few simple ingredients and no baking, they come together in minutes. If you enjoy simple no-bake sweets, you might also like this Simple ingredients, unforgettable flavor This Penuche Fudge is made with brown sugar for a melt-in-your-mouth candy youll love Old-fashioned goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

These White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters come together with just a few simple ingredients, creating a delightful contrast of creamy, tart, and crunchy textures.

• 12 oz white chocolate chips
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	5 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes

Context: This quick timeline makes these White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters about 20% faster to prepare than similar no-bake recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients and Tools

Gather 12 ounces of high-quality white chocolate baking bars, 1 cup of dried cranberries, and 1 cup of pecan halves. You will also need a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Having everything measured and ready before you begin melting the chocolate is key for a smooth process.

Step 2 — Chop the White Chocolate

Using a sharp knife, chop the white chocolate baking bars into small, uniform pieces. Smaller pieces will melt more evenly and quickly. Avoid using white chocolate chips if possible, as they often contain stabilizers that can make tempering difficult.

Step 3 — Melt the White Chocolate

Melt the chopped white chocolate using a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave. For the double boiler method, place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Stir frequently until smooth. If using a microwave, heat in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, to prevent scorching.

Actionable Tip: The chocolate is ready when it is completely smooth and registers between 110-115°F (43-46°C) on an instant-read thermometer.

Step 4 — Combine the Mix-Ins

Once the chocolate is smoothly melted, remove it from the heat. Immediately add the dried cranberries and pecan halves to the bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together until the cranberries and pecans are fully coated in the white chocolate.

Step 5 — Form the Clusters

Using two spoons or a small cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized mounds of the White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about an inch apart to prevent them from sticking together as they set.

Step 6 — Set the Clusters

Allow the clusters to set at room temperature in a cool, dry place. This can take 1 to 2 hours. For a faster setting time, you can place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes.

Doneness Cue: The White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are ready when the chocolate is firm to the touch and no longer looks wet or glossy.

Step 7 — Store or Serve

Once fully set, gently peel the clusters from the parchment paper. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	2g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	12g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	25mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein-Packed Chocolate — Swap regular white chocolate for a sugar-free, high-protein white chocolate alternative to add a protein boost without the extra sugar.
• Lower-Carb Sweetener — Use a sugar-free dried cranberry sweetened with monk fruit or allulose to significantly reduce the net carb count of your White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters.
• Dairy-Free Delight — Opt for a high-quality dairy-free white chocolate to make these clusters suitable for a vegan or lactose-free diet.
• Seed Swap for Nut-Free — Replace pecans with toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for a nut-free version that still provides a wonderful crunch.
• Dark Chocolate Twist — Use a high-percentage dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for a richer flavor and an antioxidant boost.
• Unsweetened Coconut Flakes — Add unsweetened coconut flakes for extra fiber and a tropical flavor note that pairs beautifully with cranberry.
• Reduced-Sodium Option — If using salted nuts, simply switch to unsalted pecans to have complete control over the sodium content.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Create an elegant dessert platter by arranging the clusters alongside fresh fruit like sliced pears or a selection of cheeses.
• Package them in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade holiday or hostess gift.
• Serve them as a sweet and crunchy topping over a bowl of vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt.
• Offer them as a sophisticated addition to a brunch spread, complementing scones and muffins.
• For a festive touch during the holidays, scatter a few White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters around a cheese board for added texture and color.

These versatile clusters are perfect for everything from a quick snack to an elegant party offering. Their combination of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using low-quality white chocolate that contains vegetable oils instead of cocoa butter. Fix: Choose a high-quality baking bar with real cocoa butter for a smoother melt and better flavor in your White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters.
• Mistake: Adding wet or room-temperature pecans, which can cause the chocolate to seize. Fix: Always toast and completely cool your pecans before mixing them into the melted chocolate.
• Mistake: Overheating the white chocolate, leading to a grainy, clumpy texture. Fix: Melt the chocolate gently using a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently.
• Mistake: Skipping the parchment paper and placing clusters directly on a baking sheet. Fix: Line your sheet with parchment or a silicone mat to prevent the White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters from sticking.
• Mistake: Stirring the mix-ins too vigorously, which can break the delicate clusters. Fix: Fold the cranberries and pecans gently into the chocolate until just combined.
• Mistake: Rushing the setting process by placing warm clusters in the refrigerator. Fix: Allow clusters to set at cool room temperature to avoid condensation, which can cause sugar bloom.
• Mistake: Using stale or soft dried cranberries that don’t provide a pleasant chewy contrast. Fix: Ensure your cranberries are fresh and not overly dry or moist for the best texture.
• Mistake: Making the clusters too large, making them difficult to eat and more prone to falling apart. Fix: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to create uniform, bite-sized clusters.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This prevents the white chocolate from softening in a warm kitchen.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the clusters in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag or airtight container. They will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: If you prefer a softer texture, let the clusters sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. For a warm treat, microwave on 50% power in 10-second intervals until just warm, being careful not to melt the chocolate.

Always ensure your White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are cooled completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make the nuts soggy. For food safety, do not leave these clusters at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Conclusion

We hope you love making and sharing these irresistible White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters. They are the perfect sweet and salty treat for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments below! For another delicious white chocolate dessert, check out our White Chocolate Blueberry Cheesecake Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of chocolate for these clusters?

Yes, you can substitute the white chocolate with milk or dark chocolate if you prefer. The flavor profile will change, but the method for making the White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters remains the same.

How should I store White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters?

Store your clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks to keep them fresh.

Can I make these clusters nut-free?

Absolutely. Simply omit the pecans to make nut-free clusters. You can add extra dried cranberries or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar crunchy texture.