White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are a delightful treat that harmonizes creamy white chocolate with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans. These clusters are a perfect no-bake dessert that showcases an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Imagine biting into a cluster where the sweetness of white chocolate blankets the tartness of cranberries, all while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch. They’re ideal for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth at home.
Why You’ll Love This White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan
These clusters are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for beginners.
- Great for holiday gifting or sharing with friends.
- Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find.
- Can be customized with different nuts or fruits.
- Vegetarian-friendly, fitting various dietary preferences.
- Perfect for dessert lovers looking for something unique.
With this white chocolate cranberry pecan recipe, you can create a delightful dessert that is visually appealing and packed with flavor. The American cuisine style makes it a favorite at potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients for White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan
Gather these items:
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
How to Make White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Step 2: Place white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals at 50% power, stirring between each interval until about 90% melted.
- Step 3: Remove from microwave and add vanilla extract, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Step 4: Gently fold in dried cranberries and chopped pecans with a rubber spatula.
- Step 5: Drop heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Step 6: Sprinkle each cluster with a tiny pinch of sea salt while the chocolate is still wet.
- Step 7: Allow clusters to set at room temperature for about 1-2 hours.
- Step 8: Once firm, carefully remove from parchment paper and enjoy or store for later.
Pro Tips for the Perfect White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan
Keep these in mind:
- Make sure to stir the chocolate frequently to avoid burning.
- Use high-quality white chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- Experiment with other nuts like almonds or walnuts for different textures.
Best Ways to Serve White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan
These clusters can be enjoyed in various ways:
- As a sweet snack alongside your favorite beverage.
- In a dessert platter with other treats like white chocolate cranberry pecan fudge.
- In festive gift boxes for friends and family.
How to Store and Reheat White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan
To store, keep the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week, making them a great option for meal prep or for snacks throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan
What’s the secret to perfect White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan?
The key is to ensure the white chocolate is melted just right, not too hot, to maintain its silky texture. This will help perfectly combine with the cranberries and pecans.
Can I make White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan ahead of time?
Absolutely! These clusters store well and can be made a few days ahead of an event. Just keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
How do I avoid common mistakes with White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan?
Avoid overheating the chocolate and ensure all ingredients are mixed well for an even distribution of flavors. Not stirring enough can lead to uneven clusters.
Variations of White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan You Can Try
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are some variations to consider:
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm flavor twist.
- Incorporate dried fruits like apricots or cherries.
- Try using dark chocolate instead of white for a richer taste.
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our dessert category or try making small batch apple pumpkin muffins for a seasonal treat.
For more information on the health benefits of nuts, you can refer to this Healthline article.
Print
Irresistible White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 clusters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irresistible White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters showcase the perfect trifecta of textures—creamy white chocolate embracing tart cranberries and buttery pecans in each bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Place white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals at 50% power, stirring between each interval until about 90% melted.
- Remove from microwave and add vanilla extract, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Gently fold in dried cranberries and chopped pecans with a rubber spatula.
- Drop heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Sprinkle each cluster with a tiny pinch of sea salt while the chocolate is still wet.
- Allow clusters to set at room temperature for about 1-2 hours.
- Once firm, carefully remove from parchment paper and enjoy or store for later.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cluster
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan