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- 1 cup raw almonds - 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa) - 2 tablespoons coconut oil - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt - 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract - Optional: Sea salt flakes for garnish Each serving has about 150 calories. The macronutrient breakdown is as follows: - Fat: 12g - Carbohydrates: 9g - Protein: 4g Almonds pack a punch of nutrients. They have healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Eating almonds can help improve heart health and lower cholesterol. They also provide vitamin E, which supports skin health. Dark chocolate has great antioxidant properties. It may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health too. The cocoa in dark chocolate boosts mood and can make you feel happier. Together, chocolate and almonds create a tasty snack that is also good for you. Enjoy your chocolate covered almond clusters as a healthy treat! For the full recipe, check out the details in the recipe section. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for getting the best flavor from the almonds. Spread 1 cup of raw almonds evenly on a baking sheet. Next, toast the almonds for about 10-12 minutes. Stir them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. The almonds should be golden and fragrant when done. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. While the almonds toast, let's prepare the chocolate. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of dark chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. This blend helps the chocolate melt smoothly. Heat the mixture in 30-second intervals. Stir it well after each interval until it is fully melted and smooth. Once the almonds are toasted and cool enough to touch, mix them with the melted chocolate. Stir them well to coat each almond. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a spoon to scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the chocolate-covered almonds. Drop them onto the prepared sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cluster. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each one. If you like, add sea salt flakes for extra flavor. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step ensures the chocolate hardens completely. Once set, carefully remove the clusters from the parchment paper. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. For the full recipe, check the section above. To make the best chocolate-covered almond clusters, choose high-quality dark chocolate. I recommend chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich taste. This chocolate has less sugar and more antioxidants. Toasting the almonds is key. It brings out their natural flavor and adds crunch. Spread the raw almonds on a baking sheet and toast them at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Stir halfway through to avoid burning. Keep an eye on them, as they can brown quickly. One common mistake is overheating the chocolate. Heat it in short bursts in the microwave. Stir between intervals to ensure a smooth melt. Overheating can make the chocolate seize and become unusable. Another mistake is not spacing the clusters properly. Leave about 2 inches between each scoop on the baking sheet. This allows them to set without sticking together. You can add spices to elevate your clusters. A pinch of cinnamon can add warmth and flavor. Experiment with nutmeg or even cayenne for a kick. Optional toppings can enhance the look and taste. Try adding dried fruit like cranberries or cherries. They add sweetness and texture, making your clusters even more delightful. For more tips, check out the Full Recipe for additional ideas and insights! {{image_2}} You can switch up the chocolate to fit your taste. - Milk chocolate clusters: Use milk chocolate chips. They make a sweeter treat. - White chocolate clusters: White chocolate gives a creamy flavor. It pairs well with the almonds. Don't feel stuck with almonds. You can use other nuts too. - Using cashews or pecans: Cashews are soft and creamy. Pecans add a nice crunch. - Mixing nuts for texture: Combine different nuts for a fun mix. This adds great texture and flavor. Add some fun flavors to your clusters. - Adding peppermint extract: A few drops of peppermint give a fresh twist. - Incorporating orange zest: Zest from an orange adds a bright taste. It makes the clusters pop! Feel free to experiment with these variations. Each choice brings a new delight to your snack! For the full recipe, check back with the overall guide. Store your chocolate covered almond clusters in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. Use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid. Avoid cardboard boxes, as they allow air in. Keep them at a cool room temperature if you plan to eat them soon. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them. At room temperature, these clusters last about one week. They stay fresh and tasty when stored correctly. If you refrigerate them, they can last up to two weeks. The cool air slows down spoilage, keeping the chocolate firm and the almonds crunchy. These chocolate covered almond clusters make great gifts. Use clear bags to show off their beauty. Tie a colorful ribbon around the bag for a nice touch. You can also place them in a decorative box. Add a handwritten note to make it special. This personal touch shows you care. Chocolate covered almond clusters can last about two weeks at room temperature. To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container. If you put them in the fridge, they can last about a month. Just make sure to let them warm up a bit before eating. This helps the chocolate taste its best. Yes, you can make these clusters vegan! Use dairy-free chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips. You can also swap the coconut oil with a plant-based butter. Make sure to check the labels to confirm they are vegan-friendly. The best way to melt chocolate is using the microwave or a double boiler. If you use the microwave, heat the chocolate in short bursts of 30 seconds. Stir after each burst until smooth. If using a double boiler, place the chocolate in a bowl over simmering water. Stir until melted. This method helps avoid burning. Yes, chocolate covered almond clusters can fit many diets. They are gluten-free, as they do not use any wheat products. For those on a keto diet, use sugar-free chocolate chips. Almonds are low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making them a great choice. These clusters are a tasty and healthy snack for many! You can find the Full Recipe to try this snack at home. To wrap up, you now have a clear guide to making chocolate-covered almond clusters. We covered ingredients, health benefits, and step-by-step instructions. Plus, I shared tips to perfect your clusters and different variations to try. Remember to store them well and think of creative gifts. These treats are tasty and good for you. Enjoy making and sharing them!

Chocolate Covered Almond Clusters

Indulge in the irresistible taste of decadent chocolate covered almond clusters! This easy recipe combines toasted almonds and rich dark chocolate for a perfect sweet and salty treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create mouthwatering clusters that are sure to impress. Ready to satisfy your cravings?
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Ingredients
  

1 cup raw almonds

1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)

2 tablespoons coconut oil

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: Sea salt flakes for garnish

Instructions
 

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the raw almonds on a baking sheet.

    Toast the almonds in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden and fragrant, stirring halfway through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

      While the almonds are toasting, prepare the chocolate. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.

        Once the almonds are toasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. When they are cool enough to handle, add them to the melted chocolate mixture. Stir until the almonds are fully coated in chocolate.

          Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the chocolate-covered almond mixture and drop them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

            Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt over each cluster. If desired, you can also sprinkle some sea salt flakes for extra flavor and flair.

              Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has completely hardened.

                Once set, remove the clusters from the parchment paper and store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

                  Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 12-15 clusters