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- 1 cup raw almonds - 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher) - 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for smoothness) - Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling You can swap raw almonds for other nuts like cashews or pecans. Use milk chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter taste. If you want a dairy-free option, choose vegan chocolate chips. You can skip the coconut oil, but it helps the chocolate stay smooth. - Almonds: These nuts are full of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They help keep you full and are good for your heart. - Dark Chocolate: This chocolate is rich in antioxidants. It may lower blood pressure and improve heart health. - Coconut Oil: This oil can boost energy and support metabolism. It can help improve brain function too. - Sea Salt: A little sea salt enhances flavor and helps balance sweetness. It can also help with hydration. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for toasting the almonds. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help the clusters come off easily later. Spread 1 cup of raw almonds in a single layer on the baking sheet. Place them in the oven for about 10-12 minutes. Stir the almonds halfway through to ensure even roasting. When they smell fragrant and look lightly golden, they are ready. While the almonds are toasting, it's time to melt the dark chocolate chips. You can use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each. Alternatively, use a double boiler on the stove. If you want smoother chocolate, add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Stir until the chocolate is silky and fully melted. Once the almonds cool slightly, mix them into the melted chocolate. Stir until every almond is fully coated. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop clusters onto the baking sheet. Make them as big or small as you like. While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes on each cluster. This adds a nice contrast to the sweet chocolate. Let the clusters set at room temperature. For quicker results, place them in the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens. Once set, gently lift the clusters off the parchment paper. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Enjoy your tasty dark chocolate sea salt almond clusters! For these clusters, I recommend using dark chocolate chips with 70% cocoa or higher. This type of chocolate gives a rich, bold flavor. It also brings a nice balance to the sweetness of the almonds. If you prefer, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter treat, but it won’t have the same depth. To make perfect clusters, coat the almonds well in the melted chocolate. Stir them gently to cover each almond evenly. Use a tablespoon or small scoop to form clusters. This helps them stick together nicely. Keep the clusters a bit spaced apart on the baking sheet. This prevents them from sticking together as they cool. These clusters are great for many occasions. You can serve them as a snack, a dessert, or a party treat. They pair well with coffee or tea, making them a lovely afternoon pick-me-up. You can also package them in small bags for gifts or party favors. Enjoy them anytime you crave something sweet and salty! Pro Tips Toasting Almonds: Ensure you stir the almonds halfway through to get an even roast and enhance their flavor. Melting Chocolate: Using a double boiler can help prevent the chocolate from seizing, ensuring a smooth melt. Using Sea Salt: Sprinkle the sea salt immediately after forming the clusters while the chocolate is still soft for better adherence. Storage Tips: Store the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture and flavor. {{image_2}} You can change the taste of your Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almond Clusters. Try adding spices like cinnamon or cayenne pepper for warmth. A splash of vanilla extract adds a sweet note. You can also mix in some orange zest for a fresh, zesty kick. If you want a sugar-free option, use sugar-free dark chocolate chips. These have a rich taste without added sugar. You can also swap the almonds for raw sunflower seeds for a nut-free treat. This keeps the clusters crunchy and tasty. Feel free to switch out the almonds for other nuts. Pecans, walnuts, or cashews work well too. Each nut brings its own flavor and texture. You can also try adding dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a sweet touch. Top with shredded coconut for a tropical twist. To keep your Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almond Clusters fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure the container is dry to prevent any moisture. You can use glass jars or plastic containers with tight lids. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if needed. This helps prevent sticking. Avoid direct sunlight and heat. A cool, dark pantry works best. When stored correctly, these clusters can stay fresh for about two weeks. You may notice the chocolate may lose its shine after a few days, but the taste remains great. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. To freeze your clusters, first let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the clusters to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with a date. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy them, just take out the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature. Yes, you can use milk chocolate or white chocolate. Each type brings a unique taste. Dark chocolate has a rich flavor and pairs well with sea salt. Milk chocolate is sweeter and creamer. White chocolate adds a buttery taste. Choose what you like best or mix them! You will know almonds are done when they smell nutty and look golden brown. Toast them for about 10-12 minutes. Be sure to stir them halfway. This helps them toast evenly. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. You can replace coconut oil with butter or any neutral oil. Olive oil is another choice, but it has a strong flavor. Using butter gives a nice creaminess to the chocolate. Each option will still make your clusters taste great. Dark chocolate and almonds offer health benefits. Almonds are full of good fats, fiber, and protein. Dark chocolate has antioxidants that help your body. These clusters can be a healthier treat when eaten in moderation. Just watch your portion size! In this post, we covered the key ingredients for your recipe and their benefits. I shared detailed steps for making chocolate almond clusters, including tips for the best results. We talked about tasty variations and how to store your treats for later. In conclusion, follow these steps for a delicious and healthy snack. Customize it to fit your taste. Enjoy creating your sweet clusters!

Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almond Clusters

Delicious clusters of toasted almonds coated in rich dark chocolate and sprinkled with sea salt.
Print Recipe Save Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup raw almonds
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for smoothness)
  • to taste sea salt flakes, for sprinkling

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Spread the raw almonds in a single layer on the baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Stir halfway through for even roasting.
  • While the almonds are toasting, melt the dark chocolate chips. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl by microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or using a double boiler on the stovetop. If desired, add the coconut oil to the chocolate for extra smoothness. Stir until completely melted and silky.
  • Once the almonds are toasted and cooled slightly, add them to the melted chocolate. Stir to thoroughly coat the almonds in chocolate.
  • Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop clusters of the chocolate-covered almonds onto the prepared baking sheet. You can make these as big or small as you like!
  • While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes on top of each cluster for a savory contrast.
  • Allow the clusters to set at room temperature or place them in the refrigerator for faster cooling until the chocolate is completely hardened.
  • Once set, gently lift the clusters off the parchment paper and store them in an airtight container.

Notes

For extra smoothness, add coconut oil to the melted chocolate.
Keyword almonds, chocolate, dessert, snack