Name: Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce: A Blissful Holiday Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 can Jellied cranberry sauce (Canned for smooth texture); 1 cup Dark chocolate chips (Can substitute with milk or white chocolate); 1 tbsp Coconut oil (Optional for smooth melting); 1 tsp Chili flakes (Add for a spicy kick); 1/2 cup Crushed nuts (For added crunch); 1 tsp Sea salt (Enhances flavor); Festive sprinkles (For decoration)

As I stood in my kitchen, remnants of a Thanksgiving feast sprawled across the counter, I stumbled upon a can of jellied cranberry sauce. Suddenly, an idea struck: what if I transformed this holiday staple into delightful Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites? These delectable treats combine the tartness of cranberry with the rich embrace of dark chocolate, making them not just an indulgence, but a brilliant way to give leftovers a new life. With a quick prep time of just 10 minutes and a no-bake method, these bites are perfect for holiday gatherings, delighting kids and adults alike. Ready to elevate your leftover game? Let’s dive into this simple yet impressive recipe!

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce?

Delightfully Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and a no-bake method, you can whip up these treats without any hassle!

Sweet-Tart Harmony: The vibrant tartness of cranberry sauce mingles perfectly with rich dark chocolate, resulting in a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.

Versatile Thrills: Feel free to experiment! Whether adding chili flakes for a spicy kick or topping with crushed nuts for added crunch, the possibilities are endless.

Perfect for Leftovers: Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into gourmet bites that will wow your family and guests—no one will guess they started as canned sauce!

Guilt-Free Indulgence: These bites are not only delicious but also gluten-free and vegetarian, allowing everyone to enjoy them without worry.

Serve a platter of these delightful snacks alongside other treats, like my Chocolate Chip Pumpkin or Sausage Sweet Sauce, and watch them disappear in no time!

Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Ingredients

For the Bites

Jellied cranberry sauce – Use canned for a smooth texture that’s easy to coat; whole fruit versions may not adhere well.
Dark chocolate chips – Rich and sweet, perfect for coating; feel free to substitute with milk or white chocolate for a different twist.
Coconut oil (optional) – Helps achieve a smooth melting consistency for the chocolate; omit if you prefer a thicker coat.

For Toppings (optional)

Chili flakes – Add a delightful kick to the chocolate for a unique flavor profile.
Crushed nuts – Provides added crunch and visual appeal when sprinkled on top.
Sea salt – Enhances the sweet-tart flavor and creates a gourmet touch.
Festive sprinkles – Brighten up the bites for a fun presentation perfect for holiday gatherings.

Get ready to dive into this scrumptious recipe that turns classic chocolate covered cranberry sauce into an unforgettable treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce Discs
Begin by opening the can of jellied cranberry sauce, and slice it into ½-inch thick discs. Ensure the slices are even for uniform chocolate coating. Place these discs neatly on a lined baking sheet and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as freezing helps the cranberry slices hold their shape during dipping.

Step 2: Melt the Dark Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips with coconut oil, if using. Heat the mixture in the microwave at medium power for 1 minute. Stir well, and then continue microwaving in 15-second increments until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. It should have a glossy appearance, indicating it’s ready for dipping the cranberry slices.

Step 3: Dip the Frozen Cranberry Slices
Remove the frozen cranberry slices from the freezer and prepare for dipping. Using a fork, carefully dip each slice into the melted dark chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip back into the bowl, and then place the coated slices back on the lined baking sheet. This method keeps your hands clean while achieving a perfect chocolate coverage.

Step 4: Set the Chocolate Coating
Once all the cranberry slices are dipped, return the baking sheet to the freezer and let them chill for an additional 30 minutes. This ensures the chocolate coating sets properly, creating a delightful snap when you bite into these chocolate-covered cranberry sauce treats.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
After the chocolate has fully set, remove the bites from the freezer. They can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce bites are not only a creative way to enjoy leftovers but also make for a festive and delicious treat at any gathering!

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce bites are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the jellied cranberry sauce discs up to 24 hours in advance by slicing them and freezing them on a lined baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the discs to an airtight container to maintain their quality. If you intend to dip them in chocolate ahead of time, complete the dipping process and then store the finished bites in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep them in a single layer with wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, allow the treats to come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before presenting them—this ensures the delightful flavor shines through!

What to Serve with Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce?

Create a delightful spread that complements sweet and tart flavors while elevating your dessert experience.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold and creamy texture perfectly balances the chocolatey bites, creating a delicious contrast in every spoonful.
Spicy Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai brings cozy spices that harmonize beautifully with the sweet-tart bites, making for a comforting pairing.
Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced flavor complements the chocolate and cranberry, enhancing the festive spirit of your dessert table.
Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like goat cheese contrast with the sweetness, offering a rich, savory balance that intrigues the palate.
Mint Chocolate Brownies: For the chocolate lovers, these fudgy brownies add a rich texture, making your dessert spread indulgent and inviting.
Cranberry Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink that echoes the cranberry flavor, cleansing the palate between bites of the chocolatey treats.
Dark Chocolate Fondue: For a decadent touch, consider dipping fresh fruits into dark chocolate, echoing the theme of your chocolate-covered bites.
Pecan Pie Bars: Their nutty density mingles with the tartness of cranberries, adding another layer of flavor to your holiday spread.
Red Wine: A bold red with berry undertones enhances the dark chocolate’s depth, making for a sophisticated pairing at your celebratory gatherings.
Apple Crisp: The warm, spiced flavors of this dessert bring a homely comfort, perfectly wrapping up your feast with delightful seasonal notes.

Variations & Substitutions for Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce

Looking to personalize your Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce bites? Let’s explore some fun twists that will elevate this treat to new heights!

Sugar-Free: Substitute jellied cranberry sauce with a sugar-free version to make this treat suitable for those watching their sugar intake.
Milk Chocolate Delight: Use milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate for a creamier taste that balances the tartness beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Top your chocolate-covered bites with chopped pistachios or almonds for an added depth of flavor and texture.
Spicy-Sweet: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the melted chocolate for a bold kick that beautifully contrasts with the sweet tartness.
White Chocolate Bliss: Switch to white chocolate for a sweet, creamy twist. You can also add a splash of peppermint extract for a festive touch.
Lemon Zest Boost: Mix in lemon zest into the melted chocolate for a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cranberries.
Coconut Coating: Roll your dipped bites in shredded coconut after dipping for a tropical twist and extra chewiness.

There’s no limit to your creativity! Serve these enticing variations alongside other holiday favorites like my Chocolate Chip Pumpkin or Raspberry Chocolate Mousse for a delightful dessert spread.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce

Avoid Soggy Bites: Ensure that your cranberry slices are fully frozen before dipping. This prevents them from losing their shape and helps maintain the perfect texture.
Choose Your Chocolate Wisely: Dark chocolate offers a rich flavor that complements the tartness of the cranberry sauce. Remember, using milk or white chocolate will change the sweetness level of your bites.
Use a Cooling Rack: After dipping, place your chocolate-covered slices on a cooling rack instead of directly on parchment. This prevents sogginess while the chocolate sets, allowing air to circulate.
Experiment with Flavor: Don’t hesitate to mix in extracts (like vanilla or orange) into the melted chocolate for a personalized twist. This small adjustment can elevate your chocolate covered cranberry sauce bites!
Presentation Counts: For festive occasions, sprinkle toppings like crushed nuts or festive sprinkles before the chocolate sets to create beautiful and appealing treats that will impress all your guests.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce

Fridge: Keep your chocolate covered cranberry sauce bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Layer them with wax paper to prevent sticking.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bites in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to three months without losing flavor.

Reheating: Thaw frozen bites overnight in the fridge before serving. Enjoy them cold for a refreshing snack or dessert, as the texture is best when chilled.

Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Recipe FAQs

What kind of cranberry sauce should I use?
Absolutely! For this recipe, canned jellied cranberry sauce works best as it provides a smooth texture that coats well with chocolate. Whole fruit versions might not adhere properly, resulting in a messy finish.

How should I store Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce bites?
To keep these delightful bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. I often layer them with wax paper between the layers to prevent sticking and maintain their beautiful appearance.

Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce bites?
Yes, you can! After preparing the bites, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll stay delicious for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.

How do I prevent the chocolate from sticking when dipping?
If you find that the cranberry jelly is stuck, you can create a small hole in the can with a bottle opener to help release it. Additionally, make sure the cranberry slices are adequately frozen; this will help them hold their shape and prevent the coating from becoming too messy during dipping.

Are these Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce bites suitable for my gluten-sensitive friend?
Very! These bites are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making them a versatile treat that can be enjoyed by most. Just double-check your chocolate chips to ensure they are also gluten-free, especially if you’re using alternative chocolate types.

What can I use instead of coconut oil?
If you prefer not to use coconut oil, feel free to omit it! The dark chocolate can still be melted perfectly without it, though keep in mind that the chocolate may have a thicker consistency. If you’re looking for alternatives, a small amount of butter could work too!