Learn how to make Homemade Chocolate Clusters, a delightful treat that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the crunch of almonds. These candy-like delights are a perfect holiday treat or edible gift, sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. With a decadent blend of almond and chocolate chip cookie flavors, these chocolate candy treats will melt in your mouth and are a suitable replacement for dried fruit or chocolate raisins.
They last in your fridge for a long time, ready to pop into your mouth whenever sweet cravings hit.
Serve them with dried berries like strawberries, raspberries, or dried blueberries for a pop of color and flavor contrast. A cup of coffee or tea will also make a good match, as chocolate and caffeine are perfect together.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Low Carb – if you are watching your carb intake or following a low-carb lifestyle, these chocolate almond clusters are the ideal treat as they are low in sodium and no saturated fat. They are made with ingredients that will not spike your blood sugar levels, allowing you to enjoy them without guilt.
- Easy to Make – with just a few simple steps, you can quickly whip up a batch of these chocolate clusters. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe incredibly easy to follow.
- Versatile – you can customize these chocolate clusters to suit your taste preferences. Add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for extra crunch and flavor, or drizzle them with a sugar-free caramel sauce for an indulgent twist.
What Are Chocolate Clusters?
Chocolate nut clusters are nuts covered in melted chocolate. You can choose any chocolate for coatings, like semi-sweet chocolate chips or milk chocolate, and you can use any nuts of your choice. They are sweet snacks perfect for gifts and parties. Making chocolate almond clusters is much easier than it looks, so make them at home the next time you crave this snack.
Can I Use Roasted Almonds For Chocolate Clusters?
Yes. This recipe is flexible regarding ingredients if you follow all the steps. Roasted nuts are even better because the roasting process makes the flavor more intense, and they turn nutty and crunchy.
Chocolate Clusters As Edible Gift
These chocolate nut clusters are perfect as an edible gift. Imagine a classic chocolate dessert in a box. I am sure that anyone will be excited to open it. Aside from its flavor and sweetness, the appearance of these snacks is too good to be served as something other than gift treats every Christmas or Valentine’s Day.
How To Make Homemade Chocolate Clusters
Let us dive into these simple and easy steps to make your chocolate clusters. These clusters are made of almond nuts, but you can use any nuts you choose or whatever you have available at home.
I have also prepared a video for more details and visual instructions for this recipe.
Kitchen Gadgets Needed:
- Instant Pot: Use an instant pot to melt the chocolate perfectly and smoothly.
- Stick and Spoon: Essential for stirring the chocolate during the melting process.
- Glass Bowl: Suitable for handling the melted chocolate and easy dipping.
Ingredients Needed:
- Almonds: These nuts bring a delightful crunch to your chocolate nut clusters. Almonds provide a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with dark chocolate in particular.
- Chocolate: Look for good quality chocolate chips or bars at your local grocery store or make them yourself.
- Coconut Oil: This ingredient adds smoothness and helps to bind the chocolate mixture together.
- Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt enhances the flavor of the chocolate and balances out the sweetness. If you enjoy the combination of sweet and salty, do not skip this ingredient.
*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS TO MAKE CHOCOLATE CLUSTERS
First Step: Prepare Ingredients
First of all, prepare all your ingredients.
Try to experiment with your almonds and nuts; you can soak them overnight and roast them if you want. I use only fresh nuts for this recipe, but you can customize it.
The choice of chocolate also depends on you and your preference. You can do white chocolate, milk chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips and bars, and even semi sweet chocolate chips.
Chip the chocolate bars into small pieces for them to melt faster.
Second Step: Melt the Chocolate
Melt your chocolate pieces and coconut oil in a heatproof large bowl set over an instant pot of simmering water at low heat. Stir with a stick until the chocolate lumps are completely melted and smooth.
You can also use a microwave to melt the chocolate if an instant pot or double boiler is unavailable. Just make sure to put your chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl.
Once the chocolate is melted, prepare almonds for dipping.
Third Step: Dip And Form Clusters
Dip the almonds in the melted chocolate bowl, stirring every piece to cover it evenly. Make sure they are evenly coated to make the perfect cluster.
Using a tablespoon, drop small clusters of the chocolate mixture onto a wooden board with parchment or wax paper, leaving space between each cluster. For easy shaping, you can form the clusters using mini cupcake liners or a cookie scoop.
Make sure you form a heap out of the chocolate-covered nuts and that they are stuck together.
Fourth Step: Chill
After forming them on a parchment-lined board or a baking sheet, sprinkle on top with sea salt while the chocolate is still soft and silky. The sea salt will make an excellent contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate.
Refrigerate for 1 hour; they should be perfectly chilled and ready for snacking.
TIPS AND TRICKS FOR MAKING THIS RECIPE:
- Nuts – You can use any nuts you choose, including salted peanuts, salted nuts, and even walnuts.
- Chocolate – use any chocolate available in your refrigerator or freezer. You can use any dark chocolate types and semisweet chocolate chips.
- Melting chocolate – you can use a double boiler and microwave to melt the chocolate. These methods are easy as long as you do it right and safely.
- Parchment paper – using parchment paper or wax paper is beneficial when setting the clusters and ensuring they will not stick on the surface.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
How Long Will The Chocolate Nut Cluster Set?
Chocolate nut clusters typically need about 30 minutes to set in the refrigerator. During this time, the chocolate will harden up and create a good texture that holds shape when you bite into it.
Can I Use A Slow Cooker For Melting Chocolate Chips?
While a slow cooker for melting chocolate chips is possible, other methods are recommended. Chocolate is sensitive to heat and can easily scorch or seize if exposed to higher temperatures. I suggest using a microwave or double boiler if available.
What To Serve With Chocolate Candy Clusters?
You can enjoy your chocolate candy clusters with various nuts such as activated almonds or a crunchy granola to complement the smooth texture of the chocolate. A small serving of whipped cream is also perfect for serving with chocolate nut clusters for a creamy take on these treats.
Create a sweeter dessert by serving the chocolate clusters alongside a scoop of sugar-free ice cream or popsicles.
How Do I Store Chocolate Covered Nuts?
To store chocolate-covered nuts, keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Also, consider storing them in the refrigerator or at room temperature to prevent the chocolate from melting.
Place them in an airtight container or sealable bag to protect them from moisture, which can cause the chocolate to become soft or develop a whitish coating known as “bloom.”
Yes, definitely. Freezing is an effective way to extend their shelf life while maintaining their taste and texture. You can do it by placing them on a single-layer tray or plate to ensure they will not stick together. Once they are solid, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. Do the same on another batch until all is done.
If you are ready to eat them, thawing is unnecessary as they are better solid and frozen.
More Sugar-Free Recipes
Discover more of our sugar-free desserts using our homemade dark chocolate. Try these chocolate-covered strawberries that are chocolatey and fruity at the same time. Chocolate covered peanuts or chocolate-covered almonds are also perfect as a completely sugar-free snack.
If you need more fruity snacks mixed with chocolate for specific seasons and occasions, make these chocolate-covered blueberries a satisfying, sweet snack for all chocolate and fruit lovers.
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Sugar Free Chocolate Clusters Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Spoon
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Almonds
- 0,5 Cup Chocolate
- 1 Tablespoon Coconut Oil
Instructions
- First of all, prepare all your ingredients. The choice of chocolate also depends on you and your preference. You can do white chocolate, milk chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips and bars, and even semi sweet chocolate chips. Chip the chocolate bars into small pieces for them to melt faster.
- Melt your chocolate pieces and coconut oil in a heatproof large bowl set over an instant pot of simmering water at low heat. Stir with a stick until the chocolate lumps are completely melted and smooth. Once the chocolate is melted, prepare almonds for dipping.
- Dip the almonds in the melted chocolate bowl, stirring every piece to cover it evenly. Make sure they are evenly coated to make the perfect cluster. Using a tablespoon, drop small clusters of the chocolate mixture onto a wooden board with parchment or wax paper, leaving space between each cluster. For easy shaping, you can form the clusters using mini cupcake liners or a cookie scoop. Make sure you form a heap out of the chocolate-covered nuts and that they are stuck together.
- After forming them on a parchment-lined board or a baking sheet, sprinkle on top with sea salt while the chocolate is still soft and silky. The sea salt will make an excellent contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate. Refrigerate for 1 hour; they should be perfectly chilled and ready for snacking.
Video
Notes
- Nuts – You can use any nuts you choose, including salted peanuts, salted nuts, and even walnuts.
- Chocolate – use any chocolate available in your refrigerator or freezer. You can use any dark chocolate types and semisweet chocolate chips.
- Melting chocolate – you can use a double boiler and microwave to melt the chocolate. These methods are easy as long as you do it right and safely.
- Parchment paper – using parchment paper or wax paper is beneficial when setting the clusters and ensuring they will not stick on the surface.
Nutrition
Disclaimer
Please note that nutrient values are estimates only. Variations can occur due to product availability and manner of food preparation. Nutrition may vary based on methods of origin, preparation, freshness of ingredients, and other factors.
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I made these with dark chocolate chili bars and 85% dark chocolate bars and added Planters sweet & spicy peanuts. They have a great kick and are yummy. Thanks for all the great recipes.
Love your chilli bars idea. Must be really great.