Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the chopped dark chocolate into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each, until smooth and glossy. This should take about 1-2 minutes total.
- While the chocolate melts, chop your toasted almonds into uneven pieces for crunch and flavor. Toast them briefly in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then let them cool.
- Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt, mixing until well combined. Add the coconut oil now if using, for a shiny finish and softer texture.
- Fold the toasted almonds into the melted chocolate, ensuring each piece is coated evenly with the glossy mixture. The aroma of toasted nuts and rich cocoa will fill your space.
- Using a spoon, scoop small mounds of the mixture onto a parchment-lined tray, aiming for about 2-inch clusters. Dampening your hands slightly can help shape sticky clusters.
- Place the tray in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes until the clusters are firm, shiny, and set. You’ll hear a faint crack when pressing them, indicating they are ready.
- Once set, remove the clusters from the fridge and gently peel them from the parchment. They should be crisp on the outside with a crunchy almond interior.
- Serve immediately for the best crunch, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze and enjoy straight from the freezer with a satisfying snap.
Notes
Feel free to customize by adding dried fruits, shredded coconut, or swapping nuts for pistachios or cashews. For a more intense chocolate flavor, use higher cocoa content chocolate or add a pinch of cinnamon.
