1. Home
  2. Recipes
  3. Dark Chocolate Cranberry Sauce

Dark Chocolate Cranberry Sauce

Category: Sweet Finishes & Fresh-Baked Joy

This easy-to-make treat features thick slices of chilled jellied cranberry sauce dipped into melted dark chocolate infused with coconut oil for extra smoothness. The cranberry slices are firmed up in the freezer before coating, ensuring a clean dip and a satisfying texture. Once coated, they chill again until the chocolate sets solid, creating a deliciously contrasting bite of sweet, tangy fruit with rich chocolate coating. Perfect for quick prep and a refreshing finish to any meal or snack time.

Save on Pinterest Share This Recipe Email This Recipe Print This Recipe Go Directly to Recipe
Breanna smiling at the camera.
Created By Breanna
Last updated on Thu, 18 Dec 2025 21:25:23 GMT
A slice of dark chocolate covered cranberry sauce. Save
A slice of dark chocolate covered cranberry sauce. | foodiffy.com

This dark chocolate covered cranberry sauce turns a simple holiday staple into an elegant treat perfect for unexpected guests or a sweet snack. It takes only a little prep and freezing time to transform familiar flavors into a fun bite-sized dessert, ideal for those who love a mix of tart and rich with minimal fuss.

I made this one chilly afternoon when I wanted a festive snack but didn&t want to bake. It quickly became a favorite, especially surprising friends who expected something more traditional.

Ingredients

  • Jellied cranberry sauce: for ease of slicing and a smooth texture. Look for a quality brand that tastes fresh and not overly sweet.
  • Dark chocolate chips: bring depth and balance to the tartness. Choose good quality chocolate with at least 60 percent cacao for best results.
  • Coconut oil: is optional but makes melting and dipping the chocolate smoother and shinier. Use refined coconut oil if you want a neutral flavor.

Instructions

Open and Slice:
Open your can of cranberry sauce and carefully cut it into half-inch thick discs. Each disc will be about 2 of the curved ribs you see on the can imprint, perfect for dipping.
Freeze the Slices:
Place the cranberry rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Put them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes until firm. If you are short on time you can skip this step but dipping will be messier.
Melt the Chocolate:
Add the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for one minute then stir. Continue heating in 15 second bursts stirring each time until the chocolate is fully melted and silky smooth.
Dip and Chill:
Retrieve the cranberry slices from the freezer. Using a fork fully submerge each slice in the melted chocolate. Let any excess drip back into the bowl before placing them carefully on the lined tray. Repeat until all slices are coated.
Set in Freezer:
Return the tray to the freezer for about 30 minutes until the chocolate coating is completely hardened. Now they are ready to enjoy chilled or to pack in an airtight container.
A piece of dark chocolate covered cranberry sauce.
A piece of dark chocolate covered cranberry sauce. | foodiffy.com

My favorite part is how the tartness of the cranberry sauce shines through the bittersweet shell of chocolate. These remind me of sharing cozy moments by the fire during holiday gatherings when simple pleasures like this feel extra special.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in a single layer on parchment paper in an airtight container in the freezer. They keep well for weeks and thaw quickly before serving. If you leave them at room temperature too long the chocolate can soften, so keep chilled until just before enjoying. For easier portion control, pop a few in a little box to bring to a party or gift with holiday cookie trays.

Ingredient swaps

Try milk chocolate if you prefer something sweeter but balance with fresh cranberry or less sweet cranberry sauce. You can substitute coconut oil with vegetable oil but it may slightly change the shine and firmness of the chocolate coating. For a fun twist, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or cinnamon on the chocolate before freezing to enhance flavors.

Serving ideas

Serve as an elegant appetizer or palate cleanser alongside rich cheeses or charcuterie. Offer alongside hot drinks like mulled wine, chai tea or dark roast coffee for a cozy treat. Arrange on a festive platter with fresh cranberries and sprigs of rosemary for holiday guests.

A plate of dark chocolate covered cranberry sauce.
A plate of dark chocolate covered cranberry sauce. | foodiffy.com

Enjoy turning your holiday cranberry sauce into a festive bite of chocolate covered delight. These treats are sure to surprise and please even those who might not expect this clever twist on a classic dish.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned?

Fresh cranberries would not provide the same smooth texture or sweetness. The jellied canned sauce offers a firm, sliceable base essential for dipping.

→ What does the coconut oil add to the chocolate?

Coconut oil helps thin the melted chocolate slightly, making it easier to coat the cranberry slices smoothly and giving it a glossy finish.

→ Can I substitute dark chocolate with milk or white chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind the flavor contrast changes. Dark chocolate balances the tanginess well, while milk or white chocolate will add more sweetness.

→ Is it necessary to freeze the cranberry slices before dipping?

Freezing firms up the cranberry rounds, making them easier to dip and helping the chocolate set quickly without melting the fruit.

→ How long should the chocolate-coated slices chill after dipping?

About 30 minutes in the freezer is ideal to fully harden the chocolate layer and maintain the tart filling’s freshness.

→ Can I store the coated cranberry slices for later?

Yes, keep them refrigerated or frozen in an airtight container to preserve freshness and chocolate texture.

Dark Chocolate Cranberry Sauce

Rich dark chocolate envelops chilled cranberry slices, offering a sweet and tangy contrast with a smooth finish.

Preparation Time
10 mins
Time to Cook
2 mins
Overall Time
12 mins
Created By: Breanna

Type of Recipe: Desserts & Baking

Cooking Difficulty: Suitable for Beginners

Cultural Origin: American

Portion Size: 8 Number of Servings (Approximately 16 chocolate-covered cranberry slices)

Dietary Options: Good for Vegetarians, Gluten-Free

Ingredients Required

→ Sauce

01 400 g jellied cranberry sauce (1 can)

→ Coating

02 450 g dark chocolate chips
03 15 ml coconut oil (optional)

Guide to Cooking

Step 01

Open the can of jellied cranberry sauce and slice into discs approximately 1.3 cm thick, about two ribs per slice.

Step 02

Arrange the cranberry slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicon mat. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up for easier dipping.

Step 03

Combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1 minute, stir, then continue heating in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.

Step 04

Remove cranberry slices from the freezer. Using a fork, submerge each slice completely in the melted chocolate. Allow excess chocolate to drip off, then place back on the lined baking sheet.

Step 05

Return coated slices to the freezer for approximately 30 minutes until the chocolate hardens fully.

Extra Suggestions

  1. Freezing the cranberry slices before dipping ensures a smoother coating and prevents the chocolate from melting too quickly.

Necessary Equipment

  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Fork

Allergen Info

Always check ingredient labels for allergens, and talk to a health expert if you’re unsure.
  • May contain traces of nuts and milk from chocolate

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Nutrition facts are for general information and shouldn’t replace professional health advice.
  • Energy (Calories): 210
  • Fats: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Protein: 2 g