Easy Chocolate Nut Clusters Recipe – Almond, Cashew & Peanut Delight

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Chocolate Nut Clusters Recipe – Almond, Cashew & Peanut Delight

Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a super simple, seriously addictive treat, you’ve come to the right place. These chocolate nut clusters are exactly what they sound like – little bites of chocolatey, nutty heaven. I first made these for Valentine’s Day a few years ago, and they’ve been a hit ever since! They’re perfect for gifting, a quick dessert, or just a little something to satisfy that sweet tooth. Let’s get started, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honestly, what’s not to love? These clusters are incredibly easy to make – no fancy equipment or skills needed. They come together in under 20 minutes (plus chilling time, of course!). Plus, you can customize them with your favorite nuts and sprinkles. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and honestly, they just make people happy!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delightful clusters:

• 6 oz chocolate (melting wafers/candy melts) – about 170g
• ½ cup almonds – about 75g
• ¼ cup cashews – about 35g
• ¼ cup peanuts – about 35g
• ½ teaspoon coconut oil (optional) – about 2.5ml
• Sea salt, to sprinkle
• Valentine’s Day sprinkles (or any festive sprinkles!)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec!

• Melting Wafers/Candy Melts: I highly recommend using melting wafers or candy melts. They melt beautifully and set up nice and firm. Chocolate chips can work in a pinch, but they sometimes don’t melt as smoothly.
• Coconut Oil: A tiny bit of coconut oil adds a lovely shine and a slightly softer texture to the chocolate. It’s totally optional, but I think it makes a difference!
• Nut Combination: I love the mix of almonds, cashews, and peanuts, but feel free to get creative! In some parts of India, you’ll find mixes with pistachios or even macadamia nuts. My aunt always adds a handful of chopped walnuts – delicious! You can adjust the ratios to your liking too.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This is essential – it prevents the clusters from sticking.
2. Now, melt the chocolate with the coconut oil (if using) in the microwave or in a double boiler. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy. Be careful not to overheat!
3. Add the almonds, cashews, and peanuts to the melted chocolate. Stir everything together until all the nuts are completely coated.
4. Using a fork or spoon, drop spoonfuls of the chocolate-nut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Don’t worry about making them perfect – rustic is charming!
5. Sprinkle the clusters with a pinch of sea salt and your festive sprinkles. I’m using Valentine’s Day sprinkles, but Diwali-themed sprinkles would be gorgeous too!
6. Pop the baking sheet into the freezer for about 15 minutes, or into the refrigerator for 45 minutes, until the chocolate is set.
7. Once set, store the clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Expert Tips

• Don’t Overheat the Chocolate: Burnt chocolate is sad chocolate! Low and slow is the way to go.
• Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Seriously, don’t skip it.
• Get Creative with Sprinkles: Match the sprinkles to the occasion!

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan chocolate to make these clusters plant-based. There are some amazing vegan chocolate options available now!
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the labels of your ingredients to be sure.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the melted chocolate for a little kick! My friend Priya loves this – she says it’s the perfect sweet and spicy combo.
• Festival Adaptations: For Diwali, use silver or gold edible glitter and festive sprinkles. For Christmas, use red and green sprinkles!

Serving Suggestions

These clusters are delicious on their own, but you can also:

• Serve them with a cup of chai.
• Add them to a dessert platter.
• Package them up as a homemade gift.

Storage Instructions

Store the chocolate nut clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They might get a little soft at room temperature, so keeping them chilled is best.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?

The biggest culprit is water! Make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry. If the chocolate does seize, try adding a tiny bit of vegetable oil or shortening and gently heating it.

Can I use different types of nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorites. Pistachios, walnuts, macadamia nuts – the possibilities are endless.

What’s the best way to melt the chocolate?

I prefer using the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. A double boiler works great too, but it takes a little longer.

How long do these clusters stay fresh?

They’re best enjoyed within 2 weeks, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I make these ahead of time for gifting?

Definitely! They’re a great make-ahead treat. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to gift them.

Enjoy making (and eating!) these delicious chocolate nut clusters. Let me know how they turn out in the comments below!