Stumbling upon a jar of jellied cranberry sauce in my pantry made me pause and smile, igniting memories of holiday feasts. What if I could elevate this simple classic into something utterly irresistible? Enter my Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce, the delightful treat that’s about to become your new go-to dessert. With just a few ingredients and a quick preparation time, you can transform those canned cranberries into a crowd-pleaser that balances sweet and tart flavors perfectly. Not only is this recipe a fun twist on traditional cranberry sauce, but it can also be made ahead and stored in the freezer, making it ideal for gatherings or those late-night cravings. Are you ready to impress your family and friends with this sweet surprise? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this a must-try recipe?
Elevated Classic: Transforming store-bought cranberry sauce into a gourmet delight has never been easier!
Decadent Indulgence: Rich dark chocolate envelops tart cranberries, creating an irresistible flavor combination that pleases all palates.
Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress guests or satisfy cravings.
Make Ahead: Perfect for gatherings, this treat can be stored in the freezer—ready whenever you need a sweet surprise!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These bite-sized delights are sure to wow both friends and family, making them a hit at any occasion.
Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Ingredients
For the Coating
• Dark chocolate chips – A rich, melt-in-your-mouth option that pairs perfectly with cranberries.
• Coconut oil (optional) – Adds smoothness to the chocolate, making it easier to coat and enhancing the shine.
For the Base
• Jellied cranberry sauce – The star ingredient that brings a sweet and tangy flavor to your chocolate covered cranberry sauce.
With these simple ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating a scrumptious dessert that’ll be the talk of the table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce
Start by opening a 14-ounce can of jellied cranberry sauce and carefully cutting it into approximately ½-inch thick discs, aiming for two full “ribs” from the can imprint. This will give you perfectly shaped rounds for your Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce. Place these rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
Step 2: Freeze the Rounds
Next, pop the baking sheet with the cranberry sauce rounds into the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential to ensure the cranberry slices are firm enough to hold up when coated in the melted chocolate, resulting in a neat and delicious treat that will impress your guests.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
While the cranberry rounds are chilling, prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 16 ounces of dark chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil if you choose to use it. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir well. Continue heating in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, ready for coating.
Step 4: Coat the Cranberry Rounds
Once the cranberry sauce rounds are firm, remove them from the freezer. Using a fork, gently submerge each slice into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before transferring the coated rounds back onto the lined baking sheet. Repeat this process for all slices to create your decadent Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce.
Step 5: Set the Coated Treats
Now that each cranberry slice is beautifully coated in chocolate, return the baking sheet to the freezer. Let the coated rounds set for approximately 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely hardened. This will make them easy to handle and ready to serve as a delightful dessert for your family and friends.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After the chocolate has set, carefully remove the baking sheet from the freezer, and your Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce treats are ready to be served! Arrange them on a beautiful platter and share this delightful creation with your loved ones. Enjoy every bite of this warm yet stunningly cool dessert!
Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful recipe to match your taste buds!
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Nutty Delight: Add crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios on top for a delightful crunch after dipping in chocolate.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the melted chocolate for an unexpected spicy twist. It elevates the dessert to a whole new level of excitement!
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Fruit Fusion: Dip additional dried fruits like apricots or cherries in the chocolate for a fun assortment of flavors. This combination of sweet and tart will have everyone reaching for more!
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the melted chocolate to infuse a refreshing citrus flavor. This brightness will perfectly complement the tartness of the cranberries.
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Vegan Option: Swap out dark chocolate for vegan chocolate chips and use a plant-based oil like almond instead of coconut oil for a delectable vegan treat. Everyone deserves a taste of this sweet delight!
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Caramel Drizzle: After the chocolate has set, drizzle melted caramel over the coated rounds for a rich, decadent finish that is simply irresistible. It adds an extra layer of sweetness that’s hard to resist!
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Cocoa Dust: Finish off by rolling the chocolate-covered cranberries in cocoa powder instead of sprinkles. This creates a rich, elegant feel that’s sure to impress.
These variations will surely spice up your dessert experience, making it even more fun to share and enjoy! If you're intrigued by the ideas of combining textures or flavors, you might also love trying these delectable dark chocolate truffles or these zesty chocolate orange balls for an added twist in your dessert repertoire.
What to Serve with Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce
Planning the perfect meal to complement this delightful treat can elevate any gathering into an unforgettable occasion.
- Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of tangy cheeses such as goat cheese or sharp cheddar balances the sweet and tart flavors beautifully.
- Roasted Nuts: Crunchy, lightly salted nuts add a satisfying contrast in texture, enhancing the overall experience of each chocolate-covered bite.
- Honey-Glazed Brie: Warm, melty brie drizzled with honey creates a luxurious, creamy backdrop that pairs wonderfully with the vibrant cranberry sauce.
- Ginger Cookies: Spicy, chewy ginger cookies provide a festive kick that harmonizes with the sweetness of chocolate, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Sparkling Wine: A bubbly, chilled glass of sparkling wine refreshes the palate between bites, making it an elegant beverage choice for your dessert.
- Dark Chocolate Mousse: For the ultimate chocolate lover’s treat, serve this rich dessert—its smoothness complements the tartness of the cranberries perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of citrus and berries adds a refreshing note, enhancing the flavors and providing a bright contrast to the rich chocolate.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee bring out the depth of the chocolate, making it an ideal pairing to finish your meal with style.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce
Coating Technique: Use a fork to submerge the cranberry rounds completely, ensuring an even chocolate coating without any bare patches.
Chill Time: Don’t skip the freezing step; it’s crucial for creating a firm base that holds up under the chocolate, preventing mushiness.
Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor that beautifully complements the tartness of the cranberries in this chocolate covered cranberry sauce.
Avoid Overheating: When melting chocolate, be patient and use short intervals in the microwave. Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize up and lose its smooth consistency.
Storage Tips: Keep your treats in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain their freshness and prevent any freezer burn. They can last for up to a month!
Storage Tips for Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce
Room Temperature: Chocolate covered treats can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days; however, they may lose their texture and freshness.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This will help maintain the quality of your Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce while keeping it cool.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the chocolate-covered rounds in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Allow them to thaw in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Reheating: If desired, you can microwave the chocolate-covered cranberries for 10-15 seconds to slightly warm them, enhancing their flavor without compromising texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce treats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cut the jellied cranberry sauce into rounds and freeze them up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a hassle-free assembly later. Simply prepare the rounds, chill them in the freezer, and then store in an airtight container. When you're ready to finish, melt your dark chocolate and coat the frozen cranberry rounds. Return them to the freezer for 30 minutes to set, and they'll be just as delicious as if made fresh. By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time before gatherings or those sudden dessert cravings!
Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to choose jellied cranberry sauce?
When selecting jellied cranberry sauce, look for cans that have no visible dents or damage. I recommend checking expiration dates too! Choose a brand that has a smooth texture without dark spots to ensure freshness.
How should I store Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce?
For room temperature storage, keep your chocolate-covered treats in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but for optimal freshness, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, place the chocolate-covered rounds in the freezer in an airtight container where they can last up to 1 month.
Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce?
Absolutely! To freeze, layer the chocolate-covered cranberry rounds in an airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge for a couple of hours to maintain their delicious texture.
What should I do if the chocolate seizes while melting?
If your chocolate seizes, don’t worry! Add a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil (about 1 teaspoon at a time) and gently stir until the chocolate smooths out again. If chocolate is overheated, it's best to melt new chocolate chips as the texture may change.
Are these treats safe for pets?
While chocolate is a delightful treat for us, it’s toxic to many pets, particularly dogs and cats. Please keep your Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce safely out of reach from pets, ensuring their safety while you indulge in this delicious dessert.
Decadent Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce to Wow Your Guests
Equipment
- microwave-safe bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Fork
Ingredients
For the Coating
- 16 oz Dark chocolate chips A rich, melt-in-your-mouth option that pairs perfectly with cranberries.
- 1 tablespoon Coconut oil Optional, adds smoothness to the chocolate.
For the Base
- 14 oz Jellied cranberry sauce The star ingredient that brings a sweet and tangy flavor.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberry Sauce: Open a 14-ounce can of jellied cranberry sauce and cut into approximately ½-inch thick discs. Place rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze the Rounds: Pop the baking sheet with the cranberry rounds into the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 16 ounces of dark chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir and heat in 15-second intervals until fully melted.
- Coat the Cranberry Rounds: Remove cranberry sauce rounds from the freezer and submerge each slice into the melted chocolate using a fork. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing back on the baking sheet.
- Set the Coated Treats: Return the baking sheet to the freezer and let the rounds set for approximately 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is hardened.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once set, remove from the freezer and serve on a platter. Enjoy your Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce treats!
