Chocolate Pecan Clusters are a timeless, no-bake dessert recipe made with rich melted chocolate and crunchy toasted pecans. Each cluster delivers the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and indulgent flavors, making them a favorite for holiday desserts, homemade candy gifts, and quick sweet treats. These bite-sized chocolates look gourmet but are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners.
Perfect for Christmas candy trays, Thanksgiving desserts, Valentine’s treats, or edible gifts, chocolate pecan clusters require minimal ingredients and no special equipment. Whether you’re searching for easy dessert recipes, homemade chocolate candy, or quick no-bake treats, this recipe checks all the boxes.
The glossy chocolate coating locks in the crunch of pecans, creating a candy that’s elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for everyday snacking. Best of all, these clusters store beautifully, making them ideal for make-ahead desserts.
Ingredients
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2 cups pecan halves (raw or lightly toasted)
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12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate for a sweeter taste)
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1 tbsp coconut oil or butter (optional, for smoother chocolate)
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½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
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Pinch of sea salt (optional, for contrast)
How to Make Chocolate Pecan Clusters
Step 1: Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pecans evenly on a baking sheet and toast for 8–10 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool completely. Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds extra crunch—an essential step for gourmet dessert recipes.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round until smooth. Add coconut oil or butter if using. Alternatively, melt chocolate using a double boiler for better temperature control—ideal for homemade candy recipes.
Step 3: Combine Pecans and Chocolate
Gently fold the cooled pecans into the melted chocolate, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if desired.
Step 4: Form the Clusters
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spoon small mounds of the chocolate-pecan mixture onto the sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Each spoonful forms a cluster.
Step 5: Set and Serve
Allow clusters to set at room temperature for 1–2 hours, or refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm. Once hardened, they’re ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Chocolate Pecan Clusters
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Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and shine.
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Avoid moisture—water can cause chocolate to seize.
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For glossy clusters, temper the chocolate or allow it to cool slowly.
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Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before setting for a gourmet finish.
Variations and Flavor Ideas
These clusters are incredibly versatile, making them a favorite for custom dessert recipes:
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Dark Chocolate Pecan Clusters – Use 70% dark chocolate for a rich, less sweet version.
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White Chocolate Pecan Clusters – Sweet, creamy, and perfect for holiday candy platters.
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Caramel Pecan Clusters – Add soft caramel pieces for a turtle-style candy.
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Keto Chocolate Pecan Clusters – Use sugar-free chocolate for a low-carb dessert option.
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Vegan Chocolate Clusters – Choose dairy-free chocolate and coconut oil.
Storage and Shelf Life
Store chocolate pecan clusters in an airtight container:
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Room temperature: Up to 1 week
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Refrigerator: Up to 3 weeks
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Freezer: Up to 3 months
They’re excellent for make-ahead desserts and holiday food prep.
Why Chocolate Pecan Clusters Are So Popular
Chocolate pecan clusters rank highly in easy homemade candy recipes because they:
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Require no baking
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Use simple pantry ingredients
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Are visually appealing
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Have a high perceived value (great for gifting)
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Appeal to all age groups
They’re also a top performer for food blogs, recipe websites, and Pinterest marketing, thanks to their photogenic texture and strong search demand.
Nutrition (Approximate per cluster)
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Calories: 120
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Fat: 10g
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Carbohydrates: 8g
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Sugar: 6g
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Protein: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (SEO-Optimized)
What are chocolate pecan clusters made of?
Chocolate pecan clusters are made from melted chocolate and pecans, sometimes enhanced with vanilla, salt, or caramel for added flavor.
Are chocolate pecan clusters healthy?
While they are a treat, pecans provide healthy fats and antioxidants. Using dark chocolate can make them a slightly healthier dessert option.
Can I make chocolate pecan clusters without baking?
Yes! This is a no-bake dessert recipe, perfect for quick preparation.
What chocolate is best for pecan clusters?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best, but milk or white chocolate can be used depending on taste preference.
How long do homemade chocolate clusters last?
When stored properly, they can last up to three weeks in the refrigerator.
Are chocolate pecan clusters good for gifting?
Absolutely. They’re one of the best homemade edible gift ideas for holidays and special occasions.
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