Dark Chocolate Almond Clusters
User Reviews
5
Dark Chocolate Almond Clusters
Description
The Dark Chocolate Almond Clusters recipe starts by toasting shredded coconut until golden, enhancing its flavor. Bittersweet chocolate is melted together with coconut oil and vanilla extract, creating a smooth, slightly thickened chocolate base. Raw, unsalted almonds are stirred into this mixture, forming the clusters. Spoonfuls are then placed on parchment paper, sprinkled with the toasted coconut, and chilled in the refrigerator until firm.
The resulting clusters have a glossy chocolate exterior with crunchy almonds inside, complemented by a subtle coconut topping. The bittersweet chocolate pairs with the natural almond flavor without additional sweetness beyond the rock sugar generally not used in this step. These clusters make a nice snack or dessert bite with clean, simple ingredients.
The notes suggest that substitutions like dairy-free or milk chocolate are possible, as well as using roasted or salted almonds, which will alter the flavor subtly. Storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week helps maintain freshness. Omitting coconut and replacing it with sea salt is another option for variation. The clusters should be chilled thoroughly for best texture before serving.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup coconut shredded flakes
- 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate chopped
- 3 teaspoons coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups almonds raw, unsalted
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
- Place the shredded coconut in a small skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the flakes are golden brown; set aside.
- Melt the chopped chocolate and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Once melted, add vanilla and stir. Remove from heat and let cool 10 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Stir the almonds into the chocolate then spoon mounds onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with toasted coconut. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes until hardened.
Notes
- Store clusters in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week to keep them fresh.
- Substitute bittersweet chocolate with dairy-free, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate according to preference.
- Roasted, salted almonds can be used instead of raw almonds, though this will change the flavor profile slightly.
- You may omit the coconut and sprinkle with sea salt instead for a different taste.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12to 18 clusters, depending on size
Amount Per Serving
Calories 213 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 0g | |
| Calories | 213kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 17g | 26% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 1mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 232mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 5IU | 0% |
| Calcium | 69mg | 7% |
| Iron | 1.5mg | 8% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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