Pistachio Dried Cranberry Clusters

Create elegant bite-sized clusters combining roasted pistachios and tart dried cranberries, enveloped in rich dark chocolate. Using a gentle double boiler, melt the chocolate until smooth, then fold in the nut-fruit mix. Scoop spoonfuls onto a lined tray and chill until set. These clusters offer a delightful balance of crunch and sweetness with optional flaky sea salt to enhance flavor. Perfect for quick, easy gourmet snacking and suitable for vegetarian and gluten-free diets.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 10:53:00 GMT
Arrangement of Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters on a baking sheet, ready to cool. Save to Pinterest
Arrangement of Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters on a baking sheet, ready to cool. | coralkettle.com

Elegant, bite-sized clusters combining roasted pistachios and tart dried cranberries, bound with smooth dark chocolate for an irresistible gourmet snack.

This is a go-to snack I make whenever I want something indulgent yet healthy. My family always asks for more!

Ingredients

  • 120 g (1 cup) shelled roasted pistachios (unsalted): Nutty base of the clusters
  • 80 g (2/3 cup) dried cranberries: Tart fruit complement
  • 150 g (5 oz) high-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao), chopped: Binding and flavor
  • Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling: Optional garnish enhancing taste

Instructions

Product image
Toast bread, bagels, and sourdough evenly for breakfast, sandwiches, and quick meal prep.
Check price on Amazon
Step 1:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2:
In a medium bowl, combine pistachios and dried cranberries.
Step 3:
Melt dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of gently simmering water (double boiler), stirring until smooth.
Step 4:
Pour the melted chocolate over the nut and fruit mixture. Stir gently until evenly coated.
Step 5:
Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Step 6:
If desired, sprinkle each cluster with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Step 7:
Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or until chocolate is set.
Step 8:
Store clusters in an airtight container in a cool place for up to 1 week.
Product image
Toast bread, bagels, and sourdough evenly for breakfast, sandwiches, and quick meal prep.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Toast bread, bagels, and sourdough evenly for breakfast, sandwiches, and quick meal prep.
Check price on Amazon
Close-up of tempting Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, showcasing visible pistachios and chocolate. Save to Pinterest
Close-up of tempting Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, showcasing visible pistachios and chocolate. | coralkettle.com

We enjoy these clusters together during holiday gatherings, making sweet memories with every bite.

Nutritional Information

Per serving provides 125 calories, 8 g total fat, 13 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.

Dietary Notes

This recipe is vegetarian, gluten-free, and can be adapted to be vegan by using dairy-free chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these clusters with a glass of dessert wine or enjoy alongside your favorite coffee or tea.

Perfectly formed Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, a festive, easy-to-make gourmet snack. Save to Pinterest
Perfectly formed Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, a festive, easy-to-make gourmet snack. | coralkettle.com
Product image
Prep meals effortlessly by chopping vegetables, slicing meats, and serving dinner with the right knife always ready.
Check price on Amazon

These clusters make an easy and elegant treat that’s ready in minutes, perfect whenever you crave a sweet snack.

Recipe Q&A

Can I substitute pistachios with other nuts?

Yes, almonds or hazelnuts make excellent alternatives and maintain a pleasing crunch and flavor balance.

How do I melt chocolate properly for coating?

Use a double boiler setup by placing a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth to avoid burning.

Is it possible to make these clusters vegan?

Absolutely. Choose dairy-free dark chocolate to keep the clusters vegan-friendly while preserving rich taste.

What is the purpose of sprinkling flaky sea salt?

Sea salt enhances the natural sweetness and deepens the overall flavor profile by adding a subtle contrast.

How should I store the clusters for best freshness?

Keep clusters in an airtight container in a cool place or refrigerator to maintain texture and flavor up to one week.

Can I use white or milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, switching to white or milk chocolate will create a sweeter version, altering the overall taste experience.

Pistachio Dried Cranberry Clusters

Bite-sized clusters blend roasted pistachios and dried cranberries with smooth dark chocolate and a touch of sea salt.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Overall Time
15 minutes
Created by Madison Perry


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type International

Makes 12 Portion Size

Dietary Details Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free

Ingredient List

Nuts & Fruits

01 1 cup shelled roasted pistachios (unsalted)
02 2/3 cup dried cranberries

Chocolate

01 5 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (minimum 60% cacao), chopped

Optional Garnish

01 Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Directions

Step 01

Prepare Baking Surface: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 02

Combine Nuts and Fruits: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the roasted pistachios and dried cranberries.

Step 03

Melt Chocolate: Using a double boiler method, melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, stirring until completely smooth.

Step 04

Coat Mixture with Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the nut and fruit mix; gently stir until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 05

Form Clusters: Drop heaping tablespoons of the chocolate-coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between clusters.

Step 06

Add Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle each cluster lightly with flaky sea salt.

Step 07

Set Clusters: Refrigerate the clusters for a minimum of 20 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.

Step 08

Storage Instructions: Store in an airtight container in a cool environment for up to one week.

Equipment List

  • Mixing bowl
  • Heatproof bowl and saucepan for double boiler
  • Spoon or small cookie scoop
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Allergy Advisory

Examine all ingredients for allergens and talk to your healthcare provider with any concerns.
  • Contains tree nuts (pistachios)
  • May contain soy if chocolate contains soy lecithin
  • Possible traces of milk depending on chocolate

Nutritional Info (Each Serving)

The nutrition details are for reference only and shouldn't replace advice from a doctor.
  • Caloric Value: 125
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Proteins: 2 g