Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love that this recipe is incredibly simple yet looks elegant enough for special occasions. The combination of chocolate, mixed nuts, and dried cranberries creates a satisfying snack that’s easy to customize with my favorite ingredients. I also appreciate that these clusters require no baking and store well, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, cashews, walnuts, or peanuts)
Dried cranberries
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
White chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
Coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother melting)
Sea salt flakes (optional)

Directions

I line a baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper.
I roughly chop any large nuts so each cluster has a good mix of textures.
I combine the mixed nuts and dried cranberries in a large bowl.
I melt the chocolate until smooth using a microwave or a double boiler.
I stir the melted chocolate into the nut and cranberry mixture until everything is evenly coated.
I scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming individual clusters.
I drizzle melted white chocolate over the clusters if I want a decorative finish.
I sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top for extra flavor if I like.
I let the clusters set at room temperature or refrigerate them for about 20 to 30 minutes until the chocolate is completely firm.
I transfer the finished clusters to an airtight container for storage or serve them immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 18 clusters
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter treat.
I add pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
I mix in shredded coconut for additional texture and flavor.
I include chopped dried apricots, cherries, or raisins along with the cranberries.
I season the clusters with a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice during the holidays.
I drizzle caramel over the finished clusters for an extra indulgent version.

Storage/Reheating

I store the Cranberry Nut Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week in a cool, dry place. If my kitchen is warm, I keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to help the chocolate stay firm. For longer storage, I freeze the clusters in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months and thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving. Since these are no-bake treats, I don’t reheat them.

FAQs

Can I use only one type of nut?

Yes. I often make these clusters using only almonds, pecans, cashews, or walnuts, depending on what I have available.

What type of chocolate works best?

I like using good-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate because it balances the sweetness of the dried cranberries, but milk chocolate works well too.

Can I toast the nuts first?

Yes. I often toast the nuts for a few minutes before mixing them with the chocolate because it enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.

Can I make these clusters dairy-free?

Yes. I simply use dairy-free chocolate to create a completely dairy-free version.

Are Cranberry Nut Clusters good for gifting?

Absolutely. I like packaging them in decorative tins, jars, or cellophane bags because they make thoughtful homemade gifts during the holidays or for special occasions.

Conclusion

I think Cranberry Nut Clusters are one of the easiest homemade treats I can prepare. The combination of crunchy nuts, chewy cranberries, and smooth chocolate creates a delicious snack that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week. Whether I make them for holiday celebrations, edible gifts, or a simple afternoon treat, they always deliver a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.

Cranberry Nut Clusters

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Cranberry Nut Clusters are an easy no-bake treat made with crunchy mixed nuts, chewy dried cranberries, and rich melted chocolate. Perfect for holiday platters, homemade gifts, or everyday snacking, these clusters deliver the ideal balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 18 clusters
Category: Dessert
Method: No Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, cashews, walnuts, or peanuts)
1 cup dried cranberries
12 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
2 oz white chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzling)
1 tsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional)
Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)

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Instructions

Line a baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper.
Roughly chop any large nuts to create a variety of textures.
Combine the mixed nuts and dried cranberries in a large mixing bowl.
Melt the semi-sweet or dark chocolate with the optional coconut oil until smooth using a microwave or double boiler.
Pour the melted chocolate over the nut and cranberry mixture and stir until evenly coated.
Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet to form individual clusters.
Drizzle with melted white chocolate if desired.
Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt, if using.
Let the clusters set at room temperature or refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes until the chocolate is completely firm.
Store in an airtight container or serve immediately.

Notes

Toast the nuts before mixing for deeper flavor and extra crunch.
Substitute milk chocolate for a sweeter variation or dairy-free chocolate for a vegan-friendly option.
Add pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, or chopped dried fruit for extra texture.
Store at room temperature for up to 1 week, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Package in decorative jars or tins for homemade gifts.
Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain the best texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cluster
Calories: 170 kcal
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 30 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 3 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg