Chocolate Almond Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Clusters
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup whole almonds, toasted; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional); Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Almond Clusters whenever I crave a delightful treat that’s both simple and satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients, these clusters come together easily, offering a perfect blend of crunchy almonds and rich chocolate. They are not only delicious but also make for a fantastic gift or party treat. Plus, they’re a great way to indulge without a lot of fuss, making them a staple in my kitchen. I know once you try them, they’ll become a favorite for you as well!

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:55:11.140Z

When I first decided to make Chocolate Almond Clusters, I was on a mission to create something that felt indulgent yet wasn’t a hassle to prepare. Combining toasted almonds with melted chocolate, I discovered that the simple act of mixing brought such joy. I love how the crunch of the nuts is perfectly contrasted by the smooth chocolate, creating a satisfying texture that I often crave.

One of the best tips I can share is to let the chocolate cool slightly before dipping the almonds to prevent them from becoming too soggy. This small detail can elevate the final treat significantly. Once you make them, you’ll understand why I keep coming back to this recipe—it’s just too good not to!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor balanced with crunchy almonds
Quick and easy to make, with no baking required
Customizable with your favorite chocolate types

      

The Role of Almonds

Toasted almonds play a crucial role in the flavor profile of Chocolate Almond Clusters. Their nutty, slightly sweet taste complements the rich chocolate beautifully. Toasting the almonds enhances their crunchiness and adds a deeper, more aromatic flavor. You can achieve this by spreading almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet and toasting them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to stir them halfway through to prevent burning, as almonds can darken quickly.

If you're looking for a twist, consider substituting traditional almonds with other nuts such as pecans or cashews. Each nut variety will lend a distinct taste and texture, making your clusters unique. Just ensure the nuts are toasted similarly for uniform flavor. You can even mix a couple of nut types for a more complex flavor profile.

Choosing Your Chocolate

The type of chocolate you choose significantly influences the final taste of your clusters. Dark chocolate offers a rich, slightly bitter flavor that pairs harmoniously with the sweetness of the almonds. However, you can also experiment with milk chocolate for a creamier taste, or semi-sweet chocolate for a balanced sweetness. Just remember to adjust the sweetness level based on your preference, as different chocolate types will have varying sugar contents.

If you're feeling adventurous, try using flavored chocolate chips, such as sea salt or espresso, to add an extra layer of depth. You can mix different chocolates for a marble effect, which not only looks stunning but also combines various flavors. Just melt them together in the microwave to create a homogeneous mixture.

Perfecting Your Clusters

When dropping your almond-chocolate mixture onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, consider the size of your clusters. Smaller clusters will set faster and are perfect for snacks, while larger ones create more of a dessert feel. Aim for about 1 to 2 tablespoons of mixture per cluster, adjusting based on your preferences. Just ensure that they have enough space to expand slightly without merging together as they set.

For a more visually appealing presentation, you can create a slight peak in the center of each cluster before chilling. This gives them a more artisanal look. Also, if you prefer additional texture, consider folding in some crispy rice cereal before forming clusters for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy chocolate.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Almond Clusters

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

Ensure you have everything ready before you start melting the chocolate to keep the workflow smooth!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

Combine with Almonds

Once the chocolate is melted, add the toasted almonds to the bowl and mix well until all almonds are coated with chocolate.

Form Clusters

Using a spoon, drop small clusters of the almond-chocolate mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each cluster.

Sprinkle with Sea Salt

If desired, lightly sprinkle sea salt on top of each cluster before the chocolate sets for an extra flavor boost.

Chill Until Firm

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate has completely hardened.

Once set, store the clusters in an airtight container for up to a week—if they last that long!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, swap the almonds for your favorite nuts or add dried fruit to the mix for extra texture and flavor!

Storage Tips

Chocolate Almond Clusters can be stored for up to two weeks in an airtight container at room temperature. However, if you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, where they will stay fresh for up to a month. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent moisture from affecting the chocolate’s texture.

If you decide to freeze your clusters, layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They will retain their quality for about three months. When ready to enjoy, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before eating.

Serving Suggestions

These Sweet Chocolate Almond Clusters can be served as a delightful standalone treat or can be paired with other snacks. They work well alongside coffee or tea as a bite-sized dessert. Additionally, you can dress them up by presenting them in small decorative bags or boxes for gifting, perfect for special occasions or holidays.

For a fun twist, consider serving your clusters on a platter alongside fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas. The sweetness and acidity of the fruit balance perfectly with the rich chocolate, creating a varied tasting experience for your guests.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate isn’t melting smoothly, it may be overheated. When using the microwave, make sure to stick to 30-second intervals and stir well after each interval. Chocolate can retain its shape even when melted, so ensure it’s fully stirred until glossy and smooth before mixing in the almonds.

In case your clusters don’t hold their shape after chilling, it could be due to insufficient chocolate coating. Make sure all almonds are thoroughly coated, as the chocolate helps them stick together. If needed, melt a bit more chocolate and combine to reinforce the clusters before chilling again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate or even white chocolate based on your preference.

→ How should I store the Chocolate Almond Clusters?

Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these clusters vegan?

Yes, just ensure you use dairy-free chocolate and skip the coconut oil if you prefer.

→ What nuts can I substitute for almonds?

You can use any nuts you like, such as pecans, walnuts, or cashews. Just be sure they are toasted for the best flavor.