Pistachio Dried Cranberry Clusters

Featured in: Sweet Little Treats

These elegant bite-sized clusters blend roasted shelled pistachios with tangy dried cranberries, all coated in smooth dark chocolate. Easily made by melting quality dark chocolate and mixing it with nuts and fruit, the clusters are scooped onto a lined tray and chilled until set. A touch of flaky sea salt adds a refined finish. Perfect for a quick, flavorful snack with a balance of sweet and tart notes, ideal for vegetarian and gluten-free diets.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 14:50:00 GMT
Gourmet Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, perfect for a holiday treat, are ready to enjoy. Save
Gourmet Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, perfect for a holiday treat, are ready to enjoy. | cookinget.com

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

This recipe quickly became a family favorite for snacking and entertaining, loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

  • 120 g (1 cup) shelled roasted pistachios: unsalted
  • 80 g (2/3 cup) dried cranberries: tart and chewy
  • 150 g (5 oz) high-quality dark chocolate: at least 60% cacao, chopped
  • Flaky sea salt: for sprinkling (optional garnish)

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.
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This recipe always brings us together during holidays and celebrations, creating sweet memories with every bite.

Tips for Storage

Store clusters in an airtight container in a cool place. They keep fresh for up to one week, perfect for making ahead.

Variations

Experiment by adding dried apricots or pumpkin seeds for a unique twist. For a vegan option, use dairy-free chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy clusters with a glass of dessert wine or alongside your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful treat.

These bite-sized Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters display a beautiful mix of textures and flavors. Save
These bite-sized Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters display a beautiful mix of textures and flavors. | cookinget.com

These clusters are a simple yet elegant snack, perfect for any occasion or gift.

Recipe FAQs

What type of chocolate works best for this snack?

Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao for a rich, smooth coating that balances the tartness of cranberries.

Can the pistachios be substituted?

Yes, almonds or hazelnuts can be used as alternatives, offering different textures and flavors.

How should the clusters be stored?

Store the clusters in an airtight container in a cool place and consume within one week for optimal freshness.

Is it possible to make a vegan version?

Choose dairy-free dark chocolate to ensure the clusters are suitable for a vegan diet.

What is the purpose of the flaky sea salt?

Sprinkling flaky sea salt enhances the flavor by balancing the sweetness and adding a subtle crunch.

Can white or milk chocolate be used instead?

Yes, substituting white or milk chocolate will create a sweeter flavor profile, though it will change the snack's balance.

Pistachio Dried Cranberry Clusters

Roasted pistachios and tart dried cranberries coated in dark chocolate create a delightful gourmet snack.

Prep Duration
10 minutes
Time to Cook
5 minutes
Overall Time
15 minutes
Recipe by Sophie Daniels


Skill Difficulty Easy

Cuisine International

Output 12 Portion Count

Diet Preferences Vegetarian Option, No Gluten

What You'll Need

Nuts & Fruits

01 1 cup (120 g) shelled roasted unsalted pistachios
02 2/3 cup (80 g) dried cranberries

Chocolate

01 5 oz (150 g) 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 use a silicone baking mat.

Step 02

Combine nuts and fruit: In a mixing bowl, stir together the pistachios and dried cranberries until evenly mixed.

Step 03

Melt chocolate: Using a double boiler, melt the chopped dark chocolate over simmering water, stirring continuously until smooth.

Step 04

Coat mixture: Pour the melted chocolate over the nut and fruit blend, stirring gently until all pieces are evenly covered.

Step 05

Form clusters: Spoon heaping tablespoons of the chocolate-coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing clusters apart.

Step 06

Optional garnish: Lightly sprinkle each cluster with a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired.

Step 07

Set clusters: Refrigerate the clusters for at least 20 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.

Step 08

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

Essential Tools

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

Allergy Details

Review all ingredients for allergens. Ask a medical expert when uncertain.
  • Contains tree nuts (pistachios)
  • May contain soy (commonly in chocolate lecithin)
  • Potential traces of milk; verify chocolate label

Nutrition Facts (per portion)

These numbers offer reference only, not medical guidance.
  • Energy Value: 125
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Proteins: 2 g