White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters Recipe: A Sweet, Nutty, and Festive No-Bake Treat
White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are the kind of treat that checks all the boxes—easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for gifting or snacking. These clusters combine creamy white chocolate, tart dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans in each bite. The sweetness of the chocolate balances beautifully with the slight tang of cranberries and the nutty richness of pecans, creating a candy that’s simple yet elegant. No baking is required, making this a quick recipe you can whip up in under 30 minutes. They’re perfect for holidays, cookie trays, parties, or just when you want something sweet without a lot of fuss. Plus, they store well and look beautiful wrapped in cellophane or tucked into treat boxes. Whether you’re making them for yourself or to share, these clusters always disappear fast.
What Makes This Dessert Special?
What makes White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters special is their perfect combination of flavor and texture. The creamy richness of white chocolate acts as the perfect backdrop for the chewy cranberries and crisp pecans. It’s a no-bake treat that looks and tastes gourmet but comes together in just a few simple steps. They’re festive enough for the holidays but easy enough for any time of year.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (melt time)
- Total Time: 15 minutes + cooling
- Servings: 24 clusters
Ingredients
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
1. Melt the White Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) in 20–30 second intervals, stirring each time until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a double boiler.
2. Mix in the Good Stuff
Once melted, stir in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries until everything is well coated in the white chocolate.
3. Drop the Clusters
Using a spoon, drop small mounds of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can use a cookie scoop for even portions. Optionally, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of each cluster for contrast.
4. Chill and Set
Let the clusters cool at room temperature until set, or place them in the fridge for about 20 minutes if you’re in a hurry. Once firm, they’re ready to serve.
Variations
- Nut-Free: Substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or puffed rice for a crunch without nuts.
- Extra Fruit: Add chopped dried apricots or cherries along with cranberries.
- Dark Chocolate: Replace white chocolate with dark or milk chocolate for a deeper flavor.
- Crunch Boost: Stir in crushed pretzels or cereal for added texture.
- Holiday Flair: Drizzle with red or green candy melts for a festive look.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Nutritional Information (Per Cluster, Approx.)
- Calories: ~120
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
Nutrition may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion size.
Storage Tips
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration: Keeps up to 2 weeks when stored in the fridge.
- Freezing: You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.
My Cooking Experience
With over 4 years in the kitchen, I’ve made countless candies and confections, but these clusters remain one of the easiest and most satisfying recipes I return to. They’re practically foolproof and always receive compliments. I love making them during the holidays when I need something fast, festive, and flavorful. Plus, they’re ideal for packaging as gifts or simply enjoying with a hot drink in hand.
Conclusion
White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are a go-to treat when you want something quick, impressive, and delicious. They’re perfectly balanced—sweet, tart, and nutty—and take just minutes to prepare. Whether you’re making them for yourself, guests, or gifts, these no-bake candies are always a hit. Give them a try, and you’ll find yourself making them on repeat all year long.
White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters
Ingredients
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp coconut oil optional, for smoother melting
- Pinch of sea salt optional
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) in 20–30 second intervals, stirring each time until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a double boiler.
- Once melted, stir in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries until everything is well coated in the white chocolate.
- Using a spoon, drop small mounds of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can use a cookie scoop for even portions. Optionally, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of each cluster for contrast.
- Let the clusters cool at room temperature until set, or place them in the fridge for about 20 minutes if you’re in a hurry. Once firm, they’re ready to serve.
Notes
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration: Keeps up to 2 weeks when stored in the fridge.
