Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce

Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce might sound a bit unexpected at first but the idea actually came to me one Thanksgiving evening when I was trying to figure out what to do with all the leftover cranberry sauce because I didn’t want to waste it. I’ve always loved the contrast of tart berries and rich chocolate so I thought why not roll them into little bites and give them a sweet glossy coating?

Ever since then it’s become a creative way for me to repurpose leftovers into a whole new dessert that looks fancy but takes barely any effort. Each bite bursts with juicy cranberry flavor wrapped in creamy chocolate and a little crunch from add-ins like nuts or crispy rice. It’s a sweet surprise that everyone ends up loving even those who say they don’t like cranberry sauce!

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Cranberry sauce – The tangy fruity center that holds everything together
• Crushed nuts or crispy rice – Adds texture and helps firm up the filling
• Cream cheese – Binds the filling and adds a creamy contrast to the tart berries
• Chocolate chips – For melting into that smooth outer shell
• Coconut oil – Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives it a glossy finish
• Optional toppings – A pinch of sea salt or chopped herbs for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – To combine the cranberry filling mixture
• Spoon or scoop – For shaping the filling into small round bites
• Baking sheet – To line and chill the bites as they firm up
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier
• Microwave-safe bowl – For melting the chocolate coating
• Fork or dipping tool – To easily coat the bites in melted chocolate

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Filling

I start by mixing cranberry sauce, softened cream cheese, and either crushed nuts or crispy rice in a bowl. I stir until it comes together into a thick, scoopable texture.

Step 2: Form into Balls

Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, I shape the mixture into bite-sized balls. Then I place them on a parchment-lined tray and chill them in the freezer for 20–30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

While the bites are chilling, I melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. I heat in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Dip and Coat

Once the cranberry balls are firm, I use a fork to dip each one into the melted chocolate and coat it completely. Then I let any excess drip off before placing them back on the tray.

Step 5: Garnish and Set

While the chocolate is still wet, I sprinkle with a bit of sea salt or chopped herbs for contrast. Then I chill them in the fridge until the chocolate is fully set.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

These bites are best served slightly chilled. I arrange them on a pretty plate and watch them disappear at every party!

Tips

I use leftover whole berry cranberry sauce but you can also use fresh if you prefer

Adding crispy rice makes them light and crunchy while nuts add richness

A bit of orange zest in the filling gives a citrusy holiday vibe

Don’t skip chilling the filling or they’ll be too soft to dip properly

Ways to Serve

On a holiday dessert platter next to cookies and truffles

As a sweet treat after dinner or with coffee

Packaged in mini cupcake liners as edible holiday gifts

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use jellied cranberry sauce for Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce?

Yes! Just make sure to mix it with something like cream cheese or crushed nuts to help it hold its shape.

How long do Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce bites last?

You can store them in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce bites?

Absolutely. Just thaw them in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce bites soon! They’re a deliciously creative way to transform leftovers into something new and delightful. If you make them let me know how they turned out or share your twist on the recipe.

Happy Cooking!

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