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

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.
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

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