Pistachio & Cranberry Clusters

Featured in: Sweet & Salty Snacks

These elegant clusters combine roasted pistachios with tart dried cranberries, all enveloped in smooth, high-quality dark chocolate. The mixture is spooned into bite-sized portions and chilled until set, creating a perfect balance of crunchy nuts, fruity tartness, and rich chocolate flavor. They require minimal preparation and cooling time, making for a quick and impressive snack. Optional flaky sea salt adds a delicate finish that enhances the overall taste experience.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:40:00 GMT
Delectable pistachio and dried cranberry clusters, studded with ruby cranberries, ready to enjoy as a snack! Save
Delectable pistachio and dried cranberry clusters, studded with ruby cranberries, ready to enjoy as a snack! | flavza.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 become a family favorite snack that never lasts long once served.

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.
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This treat is perfect for sharing at family gatherings and always brings smiles.

Tips for Storage

Keep clusters refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week.

Variations

For a vegan version, ensure the chocolate is dairy-free and try nut alternatives like cashews.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these clusters with dessert wine, coffee, or tea for an elegant snack experience.

Close-up of golden pistachio and dried cranberry clusters glistening with melted dark chocolate for a delicious treat. Pin it
Close-up of golden pistachio and dried cranberry clusters glistening with melted dark chocolate for a delicious treat. | flavza.com

A simple yet elegant snack that combines flavor and ease perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the pistachios with other nuts?

Yes, almonds or hazelnuts can be used as alternatives to pistachios, offering different flavor and texture profiles while maintaining the snack's crunch.

What type of chocolate works best for coating?

High-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao is recommended for a rich, balanced taste and smooth coating.

How long should I chill the clusters before serving?

Refrigerate the clusters for at least 20 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set to ensure proper texture.

Is it possible to make a dairy-free version?

Absolutely. Use dairy-free or vegan dark chocolate to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.

How should these clusters be stored?

Store the clusters in an airtight container in a cool place; they will keep well for up to one week.

Pistachio & Cranberry Clusters

Roasted pistachios and dried cranberries coated in dark chocolate for an elegant, bite-sized gourmet treat.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
5 Minutes
Total Time
15 Minutes


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: International

Yield: 12 servings

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

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

Instructions

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, blend the pistachios with 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. Stir gently to ensure 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 each cluster.

Step 06

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

Step 07

Chill Clusters: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill clusters for at least 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.

Step 08

Store Properly: Transfer clusters to an airtight container and keep in a cool place for up to one week.

Tools You'll Need

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

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains tree nuts (pistachios).
  • May contain soy if chocolate includes soy lecithin.
  • Possible traces of milk; verify chocolate labeling for dairy content.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 125
  • Total Fat: 8 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 13 g
  • Protein: 2 g