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

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Instructions

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.
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

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

Recipe Q&A

β†’ Can I substitute pistachios with other nuts?

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

β†’ 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.

β†’ Is it possible to make these clusters vegan?

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

β†’ 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.

β†’ 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.

β†’ 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.

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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

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