Pistachio Dried Cranberry Clusters

Featured in: Bite-Sized Grill Snacks

These elegant clusters bring together roasted pistachios and tart dried cranberries, coated in smooth dark chocolate for a delightful bite. They’re quick to prepare, requiring just melting chocolate and mixing ingredients before chilling to set. Perfect as a gluten-free, vegetarian snack, these clusters can be garnished with flaky sea salt for a savory-sweet balance. Simple substitutions allow for customization, making them a versatile treat for any occasion.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:04:00 GMT
Golden-brown Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, perfect for a delicious, easy homemade snack. Save
Golden-brown Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, perfect for a delicious, easy homemade snack. | bitegrill.com

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

This recipe has been a family favorite, perfect for spontaneous gatherings and gift-giving occasions.

Ingredients

  • Nuts & Fruits: 120 g (1 cup) shelled roasted pistachios (unsalted), 80 g (2/3 cup) dried cranberries
  • Chocolate: 150 g (5 oz) high-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao), chopped
  • Optional Garnish: Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

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Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.
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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
Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.
Check price on Amazon
Beautifully arranged Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, showcasing the treat's festive, colorful ingredients. Save
Beautifully arranged Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, showcasing the treat's festive, colorful ingredients. | bitegrill.com

Sharing these clusters always brings a smile and fond memories of holiday baking sessions with loved ones.

Nutritional Information

Each cluster contains approximately 125 calories, 8 g of total fat, 13 g of carbohydrates, and 2 g of protein.

Allergen Information

Contains tree nuts (pistachios) and possibly soy. May contain traces of milk depending on the chocolate used.

Serving Suggestions

Pairs wonderfully with a glass of dessert wine or served alongside coffee or tea for an elegant snack.

Close-up of decadent Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, glistening with melted chocolate, ready to enjoy. Save
Close-up of decadent Pistachio and Dried Cranberry Clusters, glistening with melted chocolate, ready to enjoy. | bitegrill.com
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Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.
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These clusters are a perfect treat whenever you need a quick burst of energy and flavor.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use different nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, almonds or hazelnuts can be substituted to alter the flavor and texture while maintaining the clusters’ crunch.

How do I melt chocolate without burning it?

Use a double boiler method by placing the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring gently until smooth.

What is the best way to store these clusters?

Store in an airtight container in a cool place or refrigerate for up to one week to keep them fresh and firm.

Can I make these clusters dairy-free?

Yes, choose a dairy-free or vegan dark chocolate to keep the clusters suitable for a dairy-free diet.

What does flaky sea salt add to the clusters?

Sprinkling flaky sea salt enhances flavor by balancing the sweetness with a subtle savory note.

Pistachio Dried Cranberry Clusters

Elegant clusters combining pistachios, dried cranberries, and dark chocolate for a tasty gourmet snack.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
5 min
Complete duration
15 min
Created by Ethan Walker


Skill Level Easy

Heritage International

Output 12 Portions

Dietary considerations Meat-Free, No Gluten

Components

Nuts & Fruits

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

Chocolate

01 5 oz (150 g) high-quality dark chocolate, at least 60% cacao, chopped

Optional Garnish

01 Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Method

Phase 01

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

Phase 02

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

Phase 03

Melt Chocolate: Melt the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan with gently simmering water, stirring until completely smooth.

Phase 04

Coat Mixture: Pour the melted chocolate over the nut and fruit mixture and gently stir until all components are evenly coated.

Phase 05

Form Clusters: Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each cluster apart.

Phase 06

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

Phase 07

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

Phase 08

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

Tools needed

  • 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 each ingredient for potential allergens and consult with healthcare providers if you're uncertain about sensitivities.
  • Contains tree nuts (pistachios)
  • May contain soy if chocolate contains soy lecithin
  • Possible traces of milk depending on chocolate used; verify labels

Nutritional information (each portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 125
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Proteins: 2 g