Christmas White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters

Christmas White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters

White chocolate holds dried cranberries and chopped pecans together in small, irregular clusters. The fruit and nuts stay visible on the craggy tops, adding chewy and crunchy bites to the smooth coating. Melt the chocolate gently in short microwave intervals, then spoon the mixture onto parchment while it is still easy to mound. Let the clusters set completely before lifting or packing them.

Ingredients for White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters

• 12 ounces white chocolate chips (about 2 cups; 340g)
• 1 cup dried cranberries (120g)
• 1 cup roughly chopped pecans (110g)
• 1/4 teaspoon oil-soluble vanilla flavoring or vanilla powder
• 1/8 teaspoon fine salt, optional

How to Make White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters

1. Prepare the tray: Line a flat tray with parchment. Chop the pecans and measure the cranberries so they are ready when the chocolate melts. Make sure the bowl and utensils are completely dry.
2. Melt the chocolate: Place the chips in a dry microwave-safe bowl large enough to hold the mix-ins. Microwave uncovered at 50% power in 20- to 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each one and checking after the first. Melting usually takes 1 1/2 to 3 minutes, depending on the microwave and bowl. Stop when a few small pieces remain, then stir until the chocolate is smooth and glossy.
3. Add the mix-ins: Stir in the vanilla and optional salt. Fold in the cranberries and pecans until the chocolate coats them evenly. Do not add water if the chocolate thickens.
4. Spoon the clusters: Drop heaping tablespoon-sized portions onto the parchment, leaving a little space between them. Keep the mounds irregular rather than flattening them; aim for about 1 1/2 to 2 inches across. Press a few cranberry and pecan pieces onto any bare tops. If the mixture becomes too firm to scoop, warm it very briefly and stir.
5. Let them set: Leave the clusters uncovered in a cool room until firm, or refrigerate for about 20 to 30 minutes. They are ready when they lift cleanly from the parchment and hold their shape without slumping. Allow more time in a warm room or for larger clusters.

Vanilla and Melted White Chocolate

Oil-soluble vanilla flavoring or vanilla powder is the more reliable choice here. Standard vanilla extract contains moisture that can make melted white chocolate thicken abruptly. If using extract instead, add only a small amount and expect a thicker mixture; do not try to thin it with water.

Serving and Storing the Clusters

Arrange the clusters in a loose pile on a plate or holiday dessert tray. For another chocolate treat, try Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls.

Let the clusters set completely before stacking, covering, or packaging them. Store in an airtight container in a cool place, with parchment between layers to reduce sticking. Refrigerate if the room is warm, and let chilled clusters come toward room temperature before serving to help reduce condensation.

Nutrition

Approximate nutrition per cluster, based on 18 clusters: 165 calories, 2g protein, 11g fat, and 18g carbohydrates. Per 100g: approximately 520 calories, 5g protein, 33g fat, and 55g carbohydrates. Values vary by brand and portion size.