White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters: Sweet & Nutty Holiday Candies

Name: White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters: Sweet & Nutty Holiday Candies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups white chocolate chips; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1 cup pecans, chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

These delightful clusters of white chocolate, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans are the perfect sweet treat for the holiday season.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2025-12-11T10:07:59.493Z

White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are a festive treat that combines the creamy sweetness of white chocolate with the tartness of dried cranberries and the crunch of pecans. Perfect for holiday gifting or as a delightful addition to your dessert table, these clusters are sure to bring smiles to all who enjoy them.

        Why You'll Love These Clusters
        Rich white chocolate flavor balanced with tart cranberries
Crunchy pecans add a delightful texture
Quick and easy to make, perfect for holiday treats

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

As the holiday season approaches, the search for the perfect sweet treat begins. These White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters combine the rich sweetness of white chocolate with the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans. Each bite is a delightful experience that captures the essence of the season. They not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also make for an impressive addition to any holiday gathering.

What sets these clusters apart is their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a gourmet treat that rivals anything found in a fancy confectionery. They are perfect for gift-giving or as a festive snack while enjoying holiday movies with loved ones. Plus, you can easily customize them by adding your favorite nuts or substituting dried fruits.

A Festive Flavor Combination

The flavor profile of these clusters is truly festive. White chocolate offers a creamy sweetness that perfectly balances the tartness of dried cranberries. This combination not only tantalizes the taste buds but also adds a splash of color to your holiday dessert table. The addition of pecans contributes a nutty richness and crunchy texture, making every bite a delightful experience.

You can enhance the flavor even further by adding a touch of orange zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the mixture. These subtle additions can elevate the clusters, making them even more aligned with holiday flavors. Experimenting with different spices can make this recipe your own, ensuring that it becomes a cherished tradition for years to come.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best things about these White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters is how quick and easy they are to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious batch ready in no time. Melting the chocolate takes only a few minutes, and the rest of the process involves combining ingredients and letting them set. This makes them an ideal option for busy holiday schedules.

Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and forgiving. It requires minimal equipment—just a microwave and a baking sheet—making it accessible for anyone looking to whip up a sweet treat without the fuss. Perfect for last-minute gifts or unexpected guests, these clusters are sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Clusters

2 cups white chocolate chips
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup pecans, chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to use high-quality white chocolate for the best flavor.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Once melted, stir in the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop clusters of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the clusters for at least 10 minutes or until set. Enjoy your sweet holiday treats!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Storing Your Clusters

To keep your White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them. The cool temperature will help maintain their structure and flavor, ensuring that they remain as delightful as when you first made them.

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can also freeze the clusters. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

These clusters are not only delicious on their own but can also be served in creative ways. Consider using them as a topping for ice cream or yogurt to add a sweet crunch. They can also be chopped and sprinkled over desserts like brownies or cakes for an added layer of flavor and texture.

For a festive presentation, arrange the clusters on a decorative platter and dust them with powdered sugar or cocoa powder. Pair them with a warm drink, like spiced cider or hot chocolate, to create a cozy holiday atmosphere. These clusters will complement any festive gathering perfectly.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! While the combination of white chocolate, cranberries, and pecans is delightful, you can swap out ingredients to suit your taste. Try using dark chocolate instead of white for a richer flavor or replace cranberries with dried cherries or apricots for a different twist.

For an added crunch, consider incorporating other nuts like almonds or walnuts. You can even add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling for a sweet-salty flavor explosion. These simple adjustments can personalize the recipe, making it uniquely yours while still maintaining the spirit of the holiday season.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Yes, dark chocolate can be used for a richer flavor.

→ How should I store these clusters?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Almonds or walnuts can be used as alternatives.

→ Are these clusters suitable for gift giving?

Yes, they make a lovely homemade gift for friends and family during the holidays!