These nut clusters are a simple yet indulgent treat that perfectly balances sweetness and crunch. With velvety dark chocolate and your choice of nuts, this delicious treat is delightfully easy to make.
Enjoy these morsels as a snack, or pair them with Mascarpone dip and mint Oreo balls for a fun dessert bar.
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When I'm craving a sweet and salty snack, I turn to treats like White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups, Valentine's pretzels, or these chocolate nut clusters. They take just minutes to make and are endlessly customizable.
Whether you need a homemade gift idea or want a fuss-free casual dessert, these chocolate-covered nuts are ideal.
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Why This Recipe Works
- Two ingredients! It doesn't get any easier than this.
- Completely customizable! Pick your favorite nuts and type of chocolate.
- A healthy, sweet-salty snack. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants, and nuts are rich in heart-healthy fats.
- Perfect for gifting. Add to cookie platters or edible gift baskets. Share with your neighbors or bring these to a party.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Dark chocolate: I prefer Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting chips because they melt beautifully. Any variety of chocolate can be used: dark, semi-sweet, milk, or white chocolate. Choose good quality baking bars or chocolate chips (like Ghirardelli or Guittard) for the best melting quality.
- Roasted nuts: Choose your favorite or use a combination. Cashews, pecans, almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, and peanuts are all great choices. Both salted and unsalted work great.
- Flaky (or coarse) sea salt is a delicious finishing touch and is completely optional.
See the recipe card for complete instructions and ingredient amounts.
Variations
Try any of these delicious combinations, or get creative. The options are endless!
- White chocolate with macadamia or pistachio nuts
- Dark chocolate with pecans or almonds
- Milk chocolate with peanuts
Methods for Melting Chocolate
Chocolate can be a little temperamental, so using one of these two methods will ensure quality results every time.
Double Boiler Method
This method is the most fool-proof way to melt chocolate.
- Place a heat-safe glass bowl over a pot of gently simmering water. Make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water. (A double-boiler pan can also be used.)
- Add the chocolate to the bowl and stir until completely melted.
- TIP: If using baking chocolate bars, chop the chocolate before adding it to the bowl to speed up the melting process.
Microwave Method
This method is easy but requires a little bit of patience so the chocolate doesn't burn.
- Add chopped chocolate or chips to a microwave-safe glass bowl.
- Microwave at 15- or 30-second intervals using 50% power, stirring between intervals until the chocolate is completely melted.
✔ Chocolate can burn easily, so using 50% power and short heating times is very important.
Do I Need to Add Coconut Oil When Melting Chocolate?
Coconut oil is often used to achieve a smooth and shiny finish. This isn't necessary when using Ghirardelli melting wafers. If you use other varieties of chocolate, learn more about using coconut oil when melting chocolate in this article.
How to Make Nut Clusters
Step 1: Add the chocolate to a heat-proof glass bowl set over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the water doesn't touch the bottom of the bowl. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted. Remove the bowl from the heat and add the nuts, stirring to coat them completely.
Step 2: Transfer small spoonfuls of the chocolate-nut mixture to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle flaky salt on top, if desired. Leave at room temperature until firm, 30-60 minutes.
Nut Clusters FAQs
Chocolate-covered nuts should be stored in an airtight container. They will last at room temperature (60-70℉) for up to one week or in the fridge for up to one month.
Yes! Ensure the clusters are completely set before transferring them to a freezer-safe plastic bag or container. Freeze for up to 6 months.
Roasted nuts should be used for the best results. To roast raw nuts, bake them on a sheet pan at 350℉ for 7-10 minutes, shaking the pan every 2-3 minutes. When the nuts become fragrant, they are ready. The nuts should not brown. Cool them before proceeding with the recipe.
Try These Sweet Treats Next
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📖 Recipe Card
Chocolate Nut Clusters
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Ingredients
- 10 ounces dark chocolate melting wafers (or baking bars or chips, see notes)
- 1¾ cups roasted cashews (see notes)
- flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Add the chocolate to a heat-safe glass bowl placed over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the water does not touch the bottom of the bowl. Stir the chocolate until it is completely melted. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the nuts until completely coated.10 ounces dark chocolate melting wafers, 1¾ cups roasted cashews
- Transfer small spoonfuls of the mixture to a parchment-lined sheet pan. Sprinkle with flaky salt. Let the clusters sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes until set.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the exact amounts and specific ingredients used.
Abbey McDermott says
These indulgent yet healthy morsels are so easy to make and satisfy my sweet and salty craving every time.