Chocolate Almond Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Clusters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups of almonds, toasted; 1 cup of dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon of coconut oil (optional); Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Highlighted under: Sugar Studio

I absolutely love making Chocolate Almond Clusters! These little treats combine rich chocolate with crunchy almonds, creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. I find them incredibly easy to put together, making them a go-to sweet snack for any occasion. The satisfying crunch of the almonds paired with the smoothness of the chocolate will keep you coming back for more. Whether it’s for a party or just to enjoy at home, these clusters are sure to impress everyone around you.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:31:13.497Z

When I first made Chocolate Almond Clusters, I was amazed at how simple they were! The combination of melting chocolate and crunchy almonds creates a delicious contrast. I prefer using dark chocolate for a richer flavor, and I always toast the almonds a bit beforehand for added depth. It only takes a few minutes to prepare, and the clusters are ready to enjoy after a quick cool down.

One key tip I discovered is to use high-quality chocolate—it really makes a difference in taste. You can also customize these clusters by adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of vanilla extract to the melted chocolate. Trust me, these tweaks take the recipe to another level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor combined with nutty almonds
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for any occasion
Customizable with your favorite nuts or toppings

Mastering Chocolate Melting

Melting chocolate can be tricky, but using high-quality dark chocolate chips ensures a smooth, luscious texture. The addition of coconut oil can help the chocolate stay glossy and make it easier to work with, providing a more fluid consistency that coats the almonds perfectly. When microwaving, always start with shorter intervals of 30 seconds to prevent overheating. Chocolate should be melted gently; look for it to become just glossy before stirring. If it has a matte finish or is grainy, it has likely overheated, so avoid letting it reach that stage.

If you're new to melting chocolate, you might find using a double boiler easier and safer. Simply fill a pot with about an inch of water and place a heatproof bowl on top, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water. Heat it on low until the chocolate melts, stirring consistently for even melting. This method prevents direct contact with heat, reducing the risk of burning. Whatever method you choose, the key is to be patient and keep an eye on the chocolate's texture throughout the process.

Creating Perfect Clusters

Forming well-shaped clusters can take a little practice, but there are some simple tricks to help. Use a generous spoonful of the chocolate-almond mix as you drop it onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. This not only makes for a heartier cluster but also helps them hold their shape as they set. For a rustic look, you can use two spoons to create more irregular, appealing shapes, but aim for clusters that are mostly uniform in size for even cooling and presentation.

If you find the clusters are spreading too much after they've been dropped onto the baking sheet, there could be too much chocolate relative to the almonds. Adding a few more almonds can help stabilize the structure when setting. It’s also crucial to chill them promptly after forming; this allows the chocolate to firm up and maintain the shape you’ve created. A quick 15-minute refrigeration is usually sufficient, but you could even leave them longer—just make sure they are covered to prevent any absorbance of unwanted flavors from the fridge.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to get started:

Ingredients

2 cups of almonds, toasted
1 cup of dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon of coconut oil (optional)
Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Now that you have everything, let's start making these delightful clusters!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil if using. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.

Combine with Almonds

Add the toasted almonds to the melted chocolate and mix well, ensuring all almonds are evenly coated.

Form Clusters

Drop spoonfuls of the chocolate-almond mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use the back of the spoon to form clusters.

Chill and Serve

Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cluster if desired. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set. Enjoy!

That’s it! You now have delicious Chocolate Almond Clusters ready to enjoy.

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try mixing in other ingredients like dried fruit or different nuts for variety. You can also drizzle white chocolate on top for a decorative touch.

Storage Tips

Chocolate Almond Clusters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week, maintaining their delicious crunch. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them which can extend their shelf life to about two weeks. Always ensure they are completely cool before sealing them to avoid any condensation that could make them soggy. If placing them in the fridge, layer parchment paper between the clusters to prevent them from sticking together.

If you prefer to keep these tasty treats longer, you can also freeze them. Just place the clusters in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to three months this way. To enjoy, simply take them out and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before indulging.

Variations to Try

One of the great aspects of Chocolate Almond Clusters is their versatility. You can easily customize them by swapping out the almonds for other nuts like cashews or pecans, or even dried fruits such as cranberries or cherries for a chewy contrast. Toss in some shredded coconut or drizzle your favorite nut butter on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Feel free to play around with different types of chocolate too; try using milk chocolate or a blend of dark and white chocolate for a visually stunning and delicious treat.

For those who enjoy added spice, consider mixing a touch of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the melted chocolate for a warm twist. Adding these flavors not only enhances the taste but also gives a unique twist that’s sure to surprise your taste buds. Experiment with toppings as well—consider using crushed freeze-dried fruit or a sprinkle of chopped sea salt to highlight the sweetness of the chocolate and the nuttiness of the almonds!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate will give a sweeter flavor, but the taste will differ from the original recipe.

→ How should I store the chocolate clusters?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these clusters ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make them a few days in advance and keep them stored properly.

→ What alternatives can I use for almonds?

Feel free to substitute with pecans, walnuts, or any nut of your choice to suit your taste.