White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters Recipe

Introduction

These White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are a delightful and easy-to-make treat, combining creamy white chocolate with tart dried cranberries and crunchy pecans. Perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups white chocolate chips
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup pecan halves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside.
2. Step 2: Melt the white chocolate chips over low heat in a medium saucepan, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Alternatively, melt in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
3. Step 3: Remove the melted chocolate from heat. Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and orange zest if using, mixing until combined.
4. Step 4: Fold in the dried cranberries and pecan halves gently until they are fully coated with the white chocolate.
5. Step 5: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoon-sized clusters onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Step 6: Press down each cluster lightly to help them hold their shape.
7. Step 7: Refrigerate the clusters for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
8. Step 8: Carefully remove the clusters from the parchment paper. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for firmer texture.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before mixing to enhance their nuttiness.
• Swap dried cranberries for chopped dried cherries or raisins for a different taste.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the chocolate mixture for a warm spice note.
• Use dark or milk chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a different twist.

Storage

Store the clusters in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be kept at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerated for up to two weeks. If refrigerated, allow the clusters to come to room temperature briefly before serving for the best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, almonds, walnuts, or cashews work well as substitutes and can add a different crunch and flavor.

How long will these clusters keep?

When stored properly in an airtight container, the clusters will stay fresh for about one week at room temperature and up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 122 reviews

• Author: Harper
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: About 20 clusters 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in these easy-to-make White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters, a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors combined with the crunchy texture of pecans. These no-bake treats are quick to prepare and require just a few simple ingredients, making them an ideal snack or festive gift to enjoy any time.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cluster Ingredients

• 2 cups white chocolate chips
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup pecan halves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside to use later for forming the clusters.
2. Melt White Chocolate: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips, stirring continuously to avoid burning. Alternatively, melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and fully melted.
3. Add Flavorings: Remove the melted white chocolate from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and orange zest (if using) until everything is thoroughly combined, enhancing the clusters with additional flavor notes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Fold in the dried cranberries and pecan halves gently using a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated with the melted white chocolate.
5. Form Clusters: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, aiming for uniform cluster sizes.
6. Shape Clusters: Gently press down each cluster slightly to help them hold their shape and set evenly.
7. Chill: Refrigerate the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes or until the white chocolate has fully set and hardened.
8. Store and Serve: Once set, carefully remove the clusters from the parchment paper. Store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature or refrigerated; refrigeration will keep them firmer for longer.

Notes

• Use good quality white chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
• The orange zest is optional but adds a nice citrusy brightness that complements the cranberries.
• For uniform clusters, use a cookie scoop to portion the mixture.
• Store clusters in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the chocolate from melting.
• Can be made ahead and stored for up to two weeks refrigerated.
• Be careful not to overheat the chocolate to avoid graininess or burning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: white chocolate, cranberry, pecan, clusters, no-bake, snack, easy recipe, holiday treats