When it comes to easy holiday treats, this one is a total winner: Chocolate Almond Clusters! These little bundles of chocolate joy take just minutes to make and look like something you'd snag at a fancy candy shop (without the fancy price tag).
Made with just a few simple ingredients and zero fuss, they're crunchy, chocolatey, sweet, salty, and wildly snackable! Great for gifting, parties, or hoarding in the back of the fridge. 🫣 No judgment here, friend!
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Why almond cashews are irresistible
First off, it's just so easy! There are no complicated steps. Just sweet, salty magic in every bite. The roasted almonds add a deep, nutty crunch that perfectly balances the rich chocolate. You can easily dress them up with a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed peppermint for extra flair.
They're festive, freezer-friendly, and a total crowd favorite! Basically your holiday MVP in candy form!
Chocolate Almond Clusters
Equipment
- baking sheet
- Parchment Paper
- small cookie scoop
Ingredients
- 3 cups whole natural almonds or raw almonds
- 12 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips
- pinch sea salt optional
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the almonds in a single layer, and toast them for 5-7 minutes, stirring and flipping them to avoid burning the nuts. Keep a watchful eye as they tend to burn quickly. Remove the almonds from pan when they are browned and fragrant. Set aside and allow to cool.
- Add the chocolate chips to a large microwave-safe mixing bowl. Cook at high in 30-second intervals until the chocolate is completely melted. Stir until smooth.
- Add the toasted almonds to the melted chocolate, and stir well to evenly coat each of the almonds.
- Using a small cookie scoop (or a spoon), portion the mixture into small clusters onto the prepared baking sheet. Immediately sprinkle with sea salt.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the candies to set.
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Nutrition
Candy ingredients
Please refer to the printable recipe card for the exact measurements for this recipe.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ's)
Toasting almonds, or any nut, enhances their flavor and texture, making them more enjoyable. Toasting nuts brings out the natural oils resulting in a richer, nuttier flavor and a crunchier texture. I always make sure to toast any nuts I use for any recipe… it just makes it that much more delicious!
Semi-sweet, dark, milk-take your pick! I personally love a dark chocolate. It has a richer flavor that isn't too sweet.
Yes, they are best kept refrigerated until you're ready to enjoy them!
Deb's top tips
When toasting nuts, be sure to take them out of the pan as soon as they're golden and fragrant. Leave them in, and the residual heat can keep cooking-and next thing you know, you've got scorched nuts instead of toasty goodness!
More candy recipes
If you're in candy-making mode, don't stop here! My Chocolate Covered Cashews are another crowd favorite, especially for nut lovers. The Cathedral Candy recipe is a vintage holiday classic that's as pretty as stained glass.
And don't forget to try the Cashew Toffee is buttery, crunchy, and completely addictive. All easy, all no-fail, all Bowl Me Over tested and approved!
Wrapping it up
So, whether you're whipping these up for a cookie tray, sneaking bites between wrapping presents, or gifting them to your neighbors (you know, the ones who definitely peek at your Amazon packages), these Chocolate Covered Almond Clusters are a sweet holiday win. Try them once, and I promise-they'll become a regular on your festive snack list.
🎄 Ready to make a batch? Grab your chocolate and almonds, and let's cluster it up! Don't forget to leave a comment and a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating if you love this recipe-your support helps keep the chocolate flowing!
Karen says
Oh my....These are my downfall.....I feel some extra pounds coming on this Christmas. Love them!
Debra Clark says
Hahaha, right? I always figure if you maintain during the holidays it's like losing 5 pounds. Seriously! Enjoy the treats Karen!!
Carol says
These look so good and simple to make.
Debra Clark says
Thank you so much Carol, I love hearing that! This little treat really is as easy as it looks. I tested it a few times (you know me!) and it never lasts long around here. I hope you get a chance to make a batch soon… just be warned, they tend to disappear faster than you expect. Let me know how they turn out for you!