If you adore the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce combined with the rich, velvety goodness of dark chocolate, then you are in for an absolute treat with these Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites. This delightful little bite-sized dessert manages to be both elegant and comfortingly nostalgic, perfect for holiday celebrations or whenever you crave something special and easy to whip up. The luscious dark chocolate perfectly balances the bright tartness of the cranberry sauce, creating a harmony of flavors that dance beautifully on your taste buds. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your dessert lineup!

Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These few simple ingredients come together to craft a dessert that shines in taste and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from the iconic tartness of the cranberry sauce to the smooth melt of the dark chocolate, with a little coconut oil thrown in to make the dipping process silky and effortless.

14 ounce can jellied cranberry sauce: This classic canned favorite delivers a perfectly smooth, sweet-tart base that’s easy to slice and use.
16 ounces dark chocolate chips: Rich and bittersweet, these chips melt flawlessly into a coating that enhances the cranberries without overpowering them.
1 Tbsp coconut oil (optional): Adding coconut oil helps achieve a smoother chocolate texture for dipping and faster setting.

How to Make Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites

Step 1: Cut the Cranberry Sauce

Begin by opening your can of jellied cranberry sauce and slicing it into approximately ½ inch thick discs. Aim for about two full “ribs” from the imprint on the can to get the perfect bite-sized rounds that are easy to handle and coat.

Step 2: Freeze the Cranberry Rounds

Lay the cranberry discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Pop the tray into your freezer for at least 30 minutes. Freezing firms up the cranberry sauce, making it less sticky and much easier to dip without losing shape. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but I highly recommend freezing for the best results.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips with the optional coconut oil. Microwave in one-minute bursts on high, stirring between each interval, then switch to 15-second increments to avoid burning. Keep stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and silky smooth, creating the perfect coating.

Step 4: Dip the Cranberry Slices

Remove the cranberry slices from the freezer and using a fork, submerge each piece into the melted chocolate completely. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing back on your lined tray. Take your time to ensure every bite gets a luscious, even coat.

Step 5: Harden the Coated Bites

Once all slices are dipped, return the baking sheet to the freezer for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has set firmly. This quick chill locks in the fabulous contrast of creamy chocolate and tangy cranberry in each bite.

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites

Garnishes

While these bites are heavenly as-is, a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or a light dusting of sea salt can elevate them visually and add a pop of texture. Fresh rosemary sprigs on the serving platter also make a charming, festive touch.

Side Dishes

Pair these Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites with a warm cup of spiced tea or a glass of sparkling wine to complement the bittersweet flavor profile wonderfully. They also make a delightful addition to any holiday dessert board featuring nuts, cheeses, and dried fruits.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your bites on a decorative platter or slate board lined with festive greenery for that holiday wow factor. Pop a toothpick into each bite to create elegant finger treats, perfect for parties or gifting in small boxes tied with ribbon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and maintain their texture for up to 5 days, making them perfect for prepping in advance for events or simple indulgence anytime.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these bites well ahead of schedule, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a sealed container or freezer bag. Frozen, they keep beautifully for up to a month and thaw quickly in the fridge when ready to serve.

Reheating

These bites are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer slightly softened chocolate, allow them to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberry sauce instead of canned?

While fresh cranberry sauce can work, the jellied canned version holds together better for dipping and creates those neat, uniform slices that make the bites so perfect. Fresh sauce is usually less firm and may be too runny.

Is the coconut oil necessary?

Not strictly, but it really helps smooth out the melted chocolate for a glossy finish and easier dipping. If you skip it, just be careful to stir the chocolate well to avoid lumps.

Can I use milk chocolate or white chocolate instead?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap dark chocolate chips for your preferred chocolate variety. Just keep in mind that the tangy cranberry pairs especially well with bittersweet dark chocolate for a balanced flavor.

How should I serve these at a party?

Arrange them on a pretty platter, maybe with festive garnishes like edible gold flakes or fresh herbs. Providing toothpicks helps guests easily pick up the bites without sticky fingers.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, kids usually love the combination of chocolate and cranberry sauce. Just be mindful of any allergy concerns and supervise younger kids during the dipping process if they want to help make them.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how simple and wonderfully tasty Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites are to make, there’s no reason not to give them a try. They bring together the best of sweet, tart, and rich flavors in a bite-sized package that’s as charming as it is delicious. Whether for holiday gatherings, gifts, or a thoughtful homemade treat, these bites are sure to impress and become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.

Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 24 reviews

Author: Thomas
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12–14 cranberry sauce bites 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce Bites, a unique and festive treat combining the tartness of jellied cranberry sauce with the rich depth of dark chocolate. Perfect as a holiday snack or an elegant party bite, these frozen delights offer a smooth, sweet, and tangy flavor experience that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Ingredients

Scale

Cranberry Sauce

14 ounce can jellied cranberry sauce

Chocolate Coating

16 ounces dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother dipping)

Instructions

Cut Sauce: Open the can of jellied cranberry sauce and cut it into approximately ½-inch thick discs, roughly 2 full “ribs” based on the can’s imprint. These will form the base of your bites.
Freeze Rounds: Place the cranberry sauce discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Freeze them for at least 30 minutes to firm up; this step helps with easier dipping later, though it can be skipped if you’re in a hurry.
Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and the optional coconut oil. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring thoroughly each time, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Dip: Remove the frozen cranberry discs from the freezer. Using a fork, dip each disc completely into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off before placing it back onto the lined baking sheet. Repeat until all discs are coated.
Harden: Return the chocolate-dipped cranberry bites to the freezer for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate sets completely. Once firm, they are ready to enjoy or store for later.

Notes

Freezing the cranberry rounds before dipping helps the chocolate set better and prevents the cranberry sauce from melting during dipping.
Coconut oil is optional but adds a smoother texture to the melted chocolate and helps with coating.
Store the finished bites in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain their shape and flavor.
For variation, try different types of chocolate like milk or white chocolate, though dark chocolate offers the best flavor balance.
Handle the bites gently after chocolate hardens, as the cranberry sauce inside can be delicate.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: Freezing and Dipping
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cranberry sauce bite
Calories: 90
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 20mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: dark chocolate cranberry bites, jellied cranberry sauce dessert, holiday chocolate treats, frozen chocolate snacks, festive cranberry snacks