You might think cranberries are just for Thanksgiving dinners, but I’m here to show you their hidden potential! Enter my Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce, a delightful treat that flips the script on traditional flavors. In under an hour, you can whip up this decadent yet easy-to-make dessert that’s bound to be a conversation starter at any gathering. Not only does this recipe take only 10 minutes of prep (yes, please!), but it’s also freezer-friendly, making it perfect for those last-minute cravings—or when you want to impress friends without the stress. Trust me, once you taste that sweet tartness coated in rich dark chocolate, you'll be hooked! Are you ready to dive into this deliciously unique creation?
Why a Unique Treat for Any Occasion?
Decadent, this Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce combines the tartness of cranberries with rich dark chocolate for a surprising treat. Quick prep takes only 10 minutes, making it a delightful last-minute dessert option! Freezer-friendly means you can prep this ahead of time for parties or unexpected guests. Visually stunning, these chocolate-covered slices are sure to impress on any platter. Versatile enough to serve at holidays or casual get-togethers, it's a unique twist to elevate your dessert game!
Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Ingredients
For the Base
• 14-ounce can jellied cranberry sauce – This is the star ingredient that provides the tangy foundation for your decadent dessert.
For the Chocolate Coating
• 16 ounces dark chocolate chips – Dark chocolate not only adds richness but also complements the tartness of the cranberry sauce beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional) – Adding coconut oil can create a smoother melting chocolate that coats better and adds a hint of coconut flavor.
Enjoy crafting this delicious Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce—your taste buds will thank you!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce
Start by opening the 14-ounce can of jellied cranberry sauce. Using a sharp knife, cut the sauce into approximately ½-inch thick discs, slicing through about two full “ribs” that the can imprint leaves. Lay the cranberry rounds on a parchment-paper-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch. This step is crucial for achieving a clean chocolate coating later.
Step 2: Chill the Rounds
Place the baking sheet with the cranberry sauce discs into the freezer and let them chill for at least 30 minutes. This process solidifies the sauce and makes it easier to coat with chocolate, helping to ensure that they hold their shape. You’ll know they’re ready when they are firm to the touch and have a chilled feel.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, add 16 ounces of dark chocolate chips along with 1 tablespoon of optional coconut oil. Microwave the mixture on high for 1 minute, then stir well. Continue to heat in additional 15-second increments, stirring after each time until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. The coconut oil adds a beautiful sheen and helps create a velvety coating for your Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce.
Step 4: Coat the Cranberry Slices
Remove the frozen cranberry rounds from the freezer. Using a fork, carefully dip each slice into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s completely submerged. Lift it out, allowing the excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Carefully place the chocolate-coated slice back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat this process until all slices are beautifully coated with chocolate.
Step 5: Set the Chocolate Coating
After coating, it’s time to firm up your Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce. Return the baking sheet to the freezer for another 30 minutes. This step is essential, as it allows the chocolate to harden completely, creating that perfect crunch when you take a bite. Once they're set, you’ll see how the rich chocolate envelops the vibrant cranberry slices, ready to impress!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chocolate is fully set, take the baking sheet out of the freezer. You can serve the Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce immediately or store them in an airtight container in the freezer. These delightful chocolate treats are perfect for family gatherings, parties, or as a sweet snack anytime. Enjoy the unexpected combination of flavors!
What to Serve with Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce
Indulge in a delightful meal experience with these charming accompaniments that perfectly enhance the flavors of your decadent treat.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture contrasts beautifully with the chocolate-dipped tartness, making each bite a delicious adventure. Serve them on the side for a comforting pairing.
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Sparkling Wine: The light, effervescent bubbles in a good sparkling wine provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate, making every sip a celebration. Perfect for special occasions!
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Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, especially tangy goat cheese or rich brie, can balance the sweetness of the chocolate, adding an elegant touch to your dessert display.
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Chocolate Drizzled Strawberries: These delightful treats mirror the chocolate-covered theme while offering a fresh, fruity bite that complements the cranberry sauce's tartness perfectly.
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Fresh Mint Salad: Crisp mint leaves add a vibrant burst of freshness and cut through the richness of the chocolate, making for a delightful and refreshing palate cleanser.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The warm, aromatic spices in a chai latte harmonize beautifully with the chocolate, creating a cozy and indulgent drink option for chilly days.
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Mini Cheesecakes: These rich, mini desserts paired with your Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce create a perfect harmony of flavors, blending tangy and creamy elements for a memorable sweet experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce slices are perfect for food prep enthusiasts! You can cut the cranberry sauce into discs and freeze them up to 3 days in advance, which allows you to whip up this treat with minimal effort later. Once frozen, store the discs in an airtight container to maintain their quality and prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to impress, simply melt the dark chocolate and coat the frozen rounds, then return them to the freezer for about 30 minutes until set. This way, you have a delightful dessert at your fingertips whenever the cravings strike!
Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
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Nutty Delight: Add crushed nuts like almonds or pecans on top for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
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Minty Fresh: Incorporate peppermint extract into the chocolate for a refreshing minty twist that's perfect for the holidays.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle cayenne pepper over the chocolate for a surprising heat that enhances the tartness of the cranberries.
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Coconut Bliss: Roll the chocolate-coated slices in shredded coconut for a tropical vibe that complements the flavors beautifully.
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Fruit Fusion: Swap jellied cranberry sauce for raspberry or strawberry jam to explore exciting new flavor profiles.
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Sweet Zest: Add orange or lemon zest into the chocolate mixture to infuse your treat with a bright, citrusy note.
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Dark Chocolate Variation: Use white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter, creamier version that’s just as delicious.
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Boozy Twist: Drizzle some bourbon or rum-infused chocolate over the top for an adult-only treat that will elevate your gatherings.
Dive into these variations and unleash your inner chef! You might discover your new favorite version of this delightful treat.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce
Fridge: Store the Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to satisfy your sweet tooth anytime!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chocolate-covered slices in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months.
Reheating: There's no need to thaw if you’re craving a slice; simply grab one from the freezer and enjoy it straight away! If desired, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before savoring.
Tip: For serving later, make sure to separate the slices with parchment paper, preventing them from sticking together.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce
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Chill Thoroughly: Make sure your cranberry slices are fully frozen. This prevents them from falling apart during the chocolate coating process.
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Smooth Chocolate: If you find your chocolate too thick, adding extra coconut oil can help achieve a smoother consistency for easier coating.
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Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate chips; they melt better and taste richer, enhancing your Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce.
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Avoid Chocolate Clumps: Stir the chocolate frequently during melting to avoid hot spots, which can lead to clumps.
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Presentation Matters: For an elegant touch, drizzle some leftover chocolate over the coated slices once they've set, giving a beautiful finish that impresses.
Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberry sauce should I use?
For this recipe, I recommend using a 14-ounce can of jellied cranberry sauce. The jellied form provides a firm texture that is ideal for slicing and coating, ensuring a delightful bite when paired with the rich dark chocolate. If you prefer homemade cranberry sauce, just ensure it has a similar consistency to create the best results.
How long can I store Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce in the fridge?
Absolutely! You can store your Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to satisfy your cravings whenever they strike! Just be sure to keep them covered to prevent moisture and maintain their deliciousness.
Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce?
Yes, you can freeze these treats! Place the chocolate-covered slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Once hardened, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Simply grab one whenever you're in the mood for a tasty snack!
What should I do if my chocolate isn’t melting smoothly?
If you find that your chocolate is thick or clumpy while melting, don’t worry! Just add an extra tablespoon of coconut oil to the chocolate and continue heating in 15-second increments, stirring after each. This will help achieve a smoother consistency for a better coat on your cranberry slices. Make sure to stir often to prevent any hot spots from developing.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, be sure to choose dark chocolate chips that are dairy-free if you're avoiding dairy. Additionally, check the labels to ensure there are no allergens. While this treat is not suitable for pets due to the chocolate, it’s a delightful, unique snack for those who can enjoy it.
Decadent Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce You’ll Love
Equipment
- microwave
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
Ingredients
For the Base
- 14 ounces jellied cranberry sauce Provides the tangy foundation for your dessert.
For the Chocolate Coating
- 16 ounces dark chocolate chips Adds richness and complements the tartness.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil Optional, creates a smoother melting chocolate.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Open the 14-ounce can of jellied cranberry sauce and cut it into approximately ½-inch thick discs.
- Lay the cranberry rounds on a parchment-paper-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don't touch.
- Place the baking sheet into the freezer and let them chill for at least 30 minutes.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 16 ounces of dark chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of optional coconut oil.
- Microwave the mixture on high for 1 minute, then stir well. Continue heating in 15-second increments until smooth.
- Remove the frozen cranberry rounds from the freezer and dip each slice into the melted chocolate.
- Allow excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl and place the slice back on the baking sheet.
- Repeat until all slices are coated with chocolate.
- Return the baking sheet to the freezer for another 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden.
- Once set, serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer.
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