Pistachio Dried Cranberry Clusters

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These elegant clusters blend roasted pistachios and tart dried cranberries enveloped in rich dark chocolate. Simply melt the chocolate, combine with nuts and fruits, then chill until set. Enjoy these flavorful bites as a quick gourmet treat, enhanced with optional flaky sea salt to balance sweetness. Perfect for a vegetarian and gluten-free snack with minimal prep time.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:41:00 GMT
Gourmet Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, perfect for snacking, with a drizzle of rich dark chocolate. Pin it
Gourmet Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, perfect for snacking, with a drizzle of rich dark chocolate. | plumclover.com

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

I love making these clusters when I need a simple yet indulgent treat that feels special but requires minimal effort.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

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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
Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.
Check price on Amazon
Close-up of freshly made Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, showing the vibrant red and green colors. Pin it
Close-up of freshly made Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, showing the vibrant red and green colors. | plumclover.com

This recipe always brings my family together for a quick snack that feels gourmet and comforting.

Variations

For a vegan variation, ensure the chocolate you use is dairy-free. You can also add other dried fruits or nuts to customize the clusters.

Storage Tips

Keep the clusters stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They stay fresh for up to one week.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these clusters with a glass of dessert wine, coffee, or tea for a delightful treat any time of day.

Beautifully arranged bite-sized Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, ideal for sharing with friends. Pin it
Beautifully arranged bite-sized Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, ideal for sharing with friends. | plumclover.com
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These clusters are a perfect balance of flavor and ease, ready to impress with little effort.

Recipe FAQ

Can I substitute the pistachios with other nuts?

Yes, almonds or hazelnuts make excellent alternatives, providing different flavors and textures while maintaining crunch.

What chocolate type works best for coating?

High-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao offers a balanced bitterness that pairs well with the tart cranberries and rich nuts.

How should I store the clusters to keep them fresh?

Store in an airtight container in a cool place or refrigerator to maintain texture and prevent melting for up to one week.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, by choosing dairy-free dark chocolate, these clusters can easily fit a vegan or dairy-free diet.

What enhances the flavor of these clusters?

Sprinkling flaky sea salt just before chilling balances sweetness and enriches the overall taste experience.

Pistachio Dried Cranberry Clusters

Bite-sized clusters with roasted pistachios, dried cranberries, and rich dark chocolate for a gourmet snack.

Time to Prepare
10 minutes
Time to Cook
5 minutes
Overall Time
15 minutes
Recipe by Joshua Barnes


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type International

Portions 12 Serving Size

Dietary notes Meatless, Without Gluten

What You Need

Nuts & Fruits

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

Chocolate

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

Optional Garnish

01 Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

How-To Steps

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 pistachios and dried cranberries.

Step 03

Melt chocolate: Melt the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl placed over a saucepan of gently simmering water, stirring until smooth.

Step 04

Mix ingredients: Pour the melted chocolate over the nut and fruit mixture, stirring gently until evenly coated.

Step 05

Form clusters: Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly.

Step 06

Add garnish: Optionally, sprinkle each cluster with a pinch of flaky sea salt.

Step 07

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

Step 08

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

Needed Tools

  • Mixing bowl
  • Heatproof bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Spoon or small cookie scoop
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Possible Allergens

Review each item for allergens and get advice from your medical provider if you’re unsure.
  • Contains tree nuts (pistachios).
  • May contain soy (if chocolate contains soy lecithin).
  • Potential traces of milk depending on chocolate choice.

Nutritional details (per serving)

For informational use only. Not a substitute for health advice.
  • Energy (kcal): 125
  • Fat content: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Proteins: 2 g