Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites: A Cozy Holiday Treat
Ah, the joy of the Holiday season! It’s that magical time of year when the air is crisp, the scents of cinnamon and nutmeg waft through our homes, and we gather around the table with our loved ones. One of my fondest memories growing up was making homemade treats with my family. The sparkle of holiday lights outside matched the warmth of laughter within. Today, I’m thrilled to share a delightful recipe that embodies that spirit of togetherness and sweetness: Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites.
Picture this: luscious, rich dark chocolate wrapped around tender, tangy cranberry bites. This easy no-bake treat is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an exceptional addition to your holiday festivities. Perfect for those cozy gatherings or as a sweet surprise in gift boxes, these bites are sure to be a hit! Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Whip up these bites in no time for a last-minute party treat!
- Indulgent Flavor: The combination of dark chocolate and tart cranberry sauce is simply irresistible.
- No-Bake Goodness: No oven required — perfect for those busy days leading up to the holidays.
- Crowd-Pleasing: These bites will have your family and friends coming back for seconds!
- Beautiful Presentation: Drizzled with chocolate, they look stunning on any dessert table.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites
To create these delightful bites, gather the following simple ingredients:
- 14-ounce can jellied cranberry sauce
- 16 ounces dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)
How to Make Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites
Let’s get started on this cozy cooking adventure! Follow these steps to create your delicious Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites:
- Open the can of cranberry sauce and cut it into approximately ½” thick discs.
- Place the sauce rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave for 1 minute, stirring every 15 seconds until melted and smooth.
- Remove the cranberry discs from the freezer and dip each into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off before returning them to the baking sheet.
- Freeze again for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set. Enjoy!
Delicious Variations to Try
Want to get a little creative? Here are some fun ways to customize your Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites:
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed nuts (like pistachios or almonds) on top of the chocolate before it sets for a zesty crunch.
- Festive Flavors: Add a dash of orange or almond extract to the melting chocolate for a fabulous flavor twist!
- Festive Drizzle: Use white chocolate for a beautiful drizzle over the dark chocolate for a striking contrast.
- Coconut Lovers: Substitute the regular chocolate with chocolate mixed with shredded coconut for a tropical touch!
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
To ensure your Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites turn out perfectly:
- Make-Ahead Magic: These bites can be made a few days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the freezer.
- Slicing Secret: For easier slicing, let the cranberry sauce sit at room temperature for a few minutes after freezing.
- Ingredient Swaps: You can use milk chocolate or even semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
- Storage Suggestions: Keep any leftovers in the freezer where they can last for up to two weeks, although I doubt they will last that long!
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
Here’s a quick look at the nutrition information per serving (2 bites):
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 16g
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 30mg
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, these bites can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer for up to two weeks! -
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of chocolate and add various toppings as suggested. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer to keep them fresh. -
How long does it last?
If stored properly, these bites can last in the freezer for about two weeks.
A Cozy Closing Note
Making these Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites is not just about creating a treat; it’s about sharing moments of joy and love with the people we cherish. The perfect balance of sweet and tart, paired with that gorgeous chocolate coating, will bring a smile to everyone’s face this Holiday season.
Remember, these bites are not just a recipe but an experience to be shared. Save this Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites to your Holiday Treats board so it’s ready when you need a cozy dessert that’s sure to impress! Enjoy the warmth and magic of the season, and happy cooking, my friends!
Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 14-ounce can jellied cranberry sauce
- 16 ounces dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional) This helps the chocolate melt smoothly.
Instructions
Preparation
- Open the can of cranberry sauce and cut it into approximately ½” thick discs.
- Place the sauce rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
Chocolate Coating
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave for 1 minute, stirring every 15 seconds until melted and smooth.
- Remove the cranberry discs from the freezer and dip each into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off before returning them to the baking sheet.
- Freeze again for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set. Enjoy!
