Smooth, creamy milk chocolate serves as the perfect base for these elegant mendiants—small, round confections topped with roasted pecans, vibrant pistachios, and tangy dried cranberries. These chocolate treats are ideal for gifting, serving at holiday gatherings, or enjoying as a refined, bite-sized dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Milk Chocolate Mendiants are a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. With minimal ingredients and no baking required, they come together quickly while still looking and tasting gourmet. The sweet and creamy chocolate pairs beautifully with crunchy nuts and tart dried fruit, offering a balanced treat with great texture and visual appeal. Their customizable nature also makes them a creative option for holidays or themed events.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• milk chocolate, chopped (preferably couverture or high-quality)

• whole roasted pecans

• shelled pistachios

• dried cranberries

directions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

2. Melt the milk chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

3. Spoon small circles of the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches in diameter, spacing them evenly.

4. While the chocolate is still soft, gently press a few pecans, pistachios, and cranberries onto the surface of each disc.

5. Allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature, or place the tray in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm up.

6. Once fully set, carefully remove the mendiants from the parchment and store in an airtight container.

Servings and timing

Servings: 20 mendiants
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Dark chocolate option: Swap milk chocolate for dark chocolate (60–70% cacao) for a richer, less sweet version.

• White chocolate version: Use white chocolate and top with freeze-dried raspberries and pistachios for a festive look.

• Add sea salt: Sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt on top for contrast and enhanced flavor.

• Themed mendiants: Customize toppings to match holidays (e.g., red and green for Christmas, orange and black for Halloween).

• Add seeds: Incorporate sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for additional crunch and nutrition.

storage/reheating

Store the mendiants in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.
Avoid storing in a warm environment or exposing them to direct sunlight. These treats are best served at room temperature. No reheating is required.

FAQs

What kind of chocolate should I use?

High-quality couverture or premium milk chocolate is best for smooth melting and better taste.

Can I temper the chocolate?

Yes, tempering the chocolate will result in a shinier finish and prevent bloom, though it is not essential for this recipe.

How do I stop the toppings from falling off?

Press them gently into the chocolate while it’s still soft to ensure they stick as it sets.

Can I use raw nuts?

You can, but roasted nuts offer better flavor and a more appealing texture.

Are mendiants gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all individual ingredients are gluten-free, including the chocolate and toppings.

Can I freeze mendiants?

Freezing is not recommended, as it may cause condensation and texture changes when thawed.

How do I make them more festive?

Use colored dried fruits, edible glitter, or gold dust for a seasonal or celebratory appearance.

Can I add spices?

Yes, a tiny pinch of cinnamon or cardamom in the melted chocolate can add warmth and depth.

Are they suitable for children?

Absolutely. You can even involve kids in decorating the discs with toppings.

What is the ideal storage temperature?

Keep mendiants in a cool room, ideally between 60°F and 70°F (15°C–21°C), to maintain their texture and appearance.

Conclusion

Milk Chocolate Mendiants with Pistachio, Pecan & Cranberry are a stylish, delightful confection that requires little effort but offers big rewards. With their smooth chocolate base and eye-catching toppings, they’re perfect for entertaining, gifting, or simply treating yourself to a luxurious bite. Easy to customize and fun to make, these little discs of joy are a charming addition to any dessert table.