Here is a quick and simple recipe for Chocolate Almond Clusters -the perfect no-bake addition to any Christmas platter and one of the best homemade gifts.
Adjust the oven rack to the middle of the oven. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Spread the almonds onto the parchment paper and toast in the oven for about 10-12 minutes or until fragrant. Toss them around a couple of times while they are roasting. Remove and allow to cool down completely.
Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl and set aside.
Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Reduce heat to the lowest setting. Set the bowl with the chocolate over the pot ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water in the pot.
With a rubber spatula, stir until the chocolate is almost melted. Remove the bowl from the heat, wipe the underside to remove excess moisture and continue to stir until fully melted.
Allow the chocolate to cool down for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave, stirring at 30-second increments, until fully melted.
Stir in the toasted almonds into the melted chocolate. Make sure the melted chocolate coats each individual almond.
Scoop out the chocolate covered almonds with a small spoon and drop on the same parchment-lined baking sheet we used to roast the almonds.
As a recommended option, sprinkle a pinch of flaked salt over each cluster.
Can be refrigerated uncovered until set.
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Notes
Since there are only 3 ingredients in this recipe, purchase high-quality chocolate, fresh almonds and flaky salt for the best results.
Toasting the almonds creates a crunchier texture and it really brings out their flavor.
Allow the roasted nuts to cool down to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe. The almonds can be roasted in advance to avoid the wait time.
Place the individual clusters in festive holiday candy cups for gift giving.
How to store: Store these chocolate nut clusters in a single layer, in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for up to 1 month, or freezer for up to 2 months. Variation:
Any nuts can be used -pecans, walnut halves, Brazil nuts, cashews, or peanuts. You can also use a combination of nuts.
Additional add-ins include dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants, coconut, etc...) and seeds (sunflower, sesame, chia, etc...)
Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used.