Cranberry Pecan Chocolate Clusters

Sticky sweet clusters dotted with chewy cranberries and crunchy pecans have become my go to when I need a treat for a last minute gathering or just a cozy night in They taste like a decadent chocolate bark but are made in a flash with just three simple ingredients

The first time I whipped these up was for a holiday cookie swap and not a single one made it back home They have since become my family’s most requested snack for movie nights and unexpected guests

Ingredients

• Pecan halves: bring rich buttery crunch Look for whole unbroken pecans with a deep golden color for best flavor
• Dried cranberries: add chewy texture and tartness Choose berries that are still plump and jewel colored Skip ones that look dry or hard
• Melted chocolate or almond bark: is the binder and sweet layer Use good quality dark or milk chocolate depending on preference Break up bars for best melting or use baking chips for convenience

Instructions

Line the Tray:

Lay out parchment paper on a baking sheet You want the clusters to release easily once set

Mix the Goodies:

In a large bowl combine the pecan halves and dried cranberries Stir gently so the berries do not break apart

Coat with Chocolate:

Pour the freshly melted chocolate or almond bark over the nut and fruit mixture Use a spatula to toss until every piece is well coated with chocolate

Form the Clusters:

Scoop out small mounds about the size of a heaping tablespoon onto the parchment lined sheet Make sure each cluster has a mix of pecans and cranberries held together by chocolate

Set and Chill:

Let the clusters sit at room temperature until firm This usually takes about twenty minutes For a speedier setup place the tray in the fridge for ten to fifteen minutes

My favorite part is biting into a chunk with a big pecan right at the center Each bite is a sweet surprise I once tucked these into my daughter’s backpack for a road trip snack She thought she had unwrapped a little present with every piece

Storage Tips

Keep clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week If your kitchen runs warm store them in the fridge to prevent melting For make ahead gifting package cooled clusters in festive tins lined with wax paper

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in walnuts or almonds for the pecans if you like a different nut Try chopped dried cherries or apricots instead of cranberries If you run out of chocolate almond bark is a mess proof option and still tastes great

Serving Suggestions

Serve these with coffee for afternoon pick me ups or arrange them on a pretty plate at holiday parties I sometimes chop them and sprinkle over ice cream for an easy homemade sundae

Cultural Context

Chocolate nut candies like these have been a treat at American celebrations since the early days of homemade candy making Dried fruit and nuts were always pantry staples for quick desserts and snackable sweets

Seasonal Adaptations

Use dried blueberries or golden raisins for a summertime feel Try white chocolate for a festive holiday look Red and green dried fruit look especially cheery for December gifts

Freezer Meal Conversion

Flash freeze clusters on a tray until solid then transfer to freezer storage bags They keep up to three months Thaw at room temperature for best texture and enjoy whenever the craving strikes

Many friends have messaged me saying this was the first candy recipe they made themselves with success It is that easy and forgiving

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the clusters from sticking to the tray?

Use parchment paper or a silicone mat on your baking sheet to ensure easy removal and minimal mess.

→ Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be used for a different crunch and flavor profile.

→ Is it possible to use other dried fruits?

Yes, dried cherries or blueberries can replace cranberries for a twist in flavor.

→ How should the chocolate be melted for best results?

Melt chocolate gently using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth.

→ How long do the clusters need to firm up?

Let them set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or chill for 10–15 minutes for faster results.