White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters

White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters (Easy No-Bake Treat!)

These White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters are the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy. Made with just a handful of pantry ingredients, these no-bake treats come together in minutes and look like gourmet candy. They’re perfect for holidays, gifting, or whenever you need a quick and beautiful dessert!

🥣 Ingredients

  • 12 oz white chocolate chips

  • 1 cup dried cranberries

  • 1 cup pecan halves

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Pinch of sea salt

🍽️ Instructions

  1. Melt the chocolate:
    Add the white chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round until fully melted and smooth.

  2. Flavor the chocolate:
    Stir in the vanilla extract and a small pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavor.

  3. Combine the mix-ins:
    Add the dried cranberries and pecan halves. Gently stir until everything is evenly coated in creamy white chocolate.

  4. Form the clusters:
    Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  5. Let them set:
    Allow the clusters to cool at room temperature or place them in the refrigerator for quicker setting.

❓ 20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I use white chocolate bars instead of chips?
    Yes! Just chop them finely so they melt evenly.

  2. Can I replace the pecans with another nut?
    Absolutely—almonds, walnuts, pistachios, or cashews all work great.

  3. Do I have to use vanilla extract?
    No, but it adds warmth and sweetness. Almond extract is a delicious alternative.

  4. Can I add more mix-ins?
    Yes! Try dried cherries, coconut flakes, mini marshmallows, or pretzel pieces.

  5. How long do the clusters take to set?
    In the fridge: 10–15 minutes.
    At room temp: 30–45 minutes.

  6. Can I make these dairy-free?
    Yes—use dairy-free white chocolate chips.

  7. Can I use fresh cranberries?
    No, they release moisture and won’t work in this recipe.

  8. Can I toast the pecans?
    Yes—this adds extra flavor and crunch. Highly recommended!

  9. How should I store the clusters?
    In an airtight container, up to 2 weeks.

  10. Do they need to be refrigerated?
    No, but they’ll stay firmer if refrigerated.

  11. Can I freeze them?
    Yes! Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge.

  12. Why did my white chocolate seize?
    Water/moisture likely got in. Always use dry utensils.

  13. Can I melt the chocolate on the stovetop?
    Yes—use a double boiler for gentle, even heat.

  14. Can I use candied pecans?
    Definitely! They’ll add extra sweetness and crunch.

  15. Can I make them smaller or larger?
    Yes—use teaspoon-sized drops for minis or big scoops for jumbo clusters.

  16. Can I drizzle them with dark or milk chocolate?
    YES! This makes them extra fancy and delicious.

  17. Are these good for gifting?
    Perfect! Package them in treat bags, tins, or boxes.

  18. Can I make these with ruby chocolate?
    Yes—they turn a beautiful pink color.

  19. Are these gluten-free?
    Yes—naturally gluten-free as long as your chocolate is certified GF.

  20. Can kids make this recipe?
    Absolutely! It’s a great no-bake, low-mess recipe for kids.

💡 20 Helpful Tips for Perfect Clusters

  1. Use high-quality white chocolate for the smoothest melt.

  2. Add ½ teaspoon coconut oil to help thin the chocolate if needed.

  3. Toast pecans for 5–7 minutes for deeper flavor.

  4. Roughly chop the pecans if you want smaller pieces.

  5. Add a tiny sprinkle of sea salt on top for a gourmet finish.

  6. Work quickly—white chocolate firms up faster than dark chocolate.

  7. If the mixture gets too thick, re-warm it for 10 seconds in the microwave.

  8. Use silicone baking mats instead of parchment if preferred.

  9. Make them festive by adding holiday sprinkles.

  10. Add orange zest to brighten the flavor.

  11. Use cranberry-orange flavored dried cranberries for a twist.

  12. Add crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet combo.

  13. Use half white chocolate, half milk chocolate for a marbled look.

  14. For softer clusters, chop the cranberries smaller.

  15. Add 1–2 tablespoons of mini marshmallows for a Rocky Road version.

  16. Store with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

  17. Make them look store-bought by drizzling extra melted chocolate on top.

  18. For a crunchy version, add a handful of Rice Krispies cereal.

  19. Use a cookie scoop to make perfectly uniform clusters.

  20. Package them in cupcake liners for a clean, pretty presentation.

 

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