There’s something magical about the combination of tart cranberries, crunchy almonds, and rich chocolate. When you bite into a Cranberry Almond Chocolate Cluster, the world seems to pause for just a moment, allowing you to savor that delightful explosion of flavors. It’s like a party in your mouth where everyone is invited—sweet, nutty, and just a bit tangy.
This delightful treat doesn’t just taste great; it also brings back fond memories of holiday baking with my grandma. The kitchen would be filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of melting chocolate as we crafted these clusters together. Whether you whip them up for a festive gathering or simply as an afternoon snack, these clusters promise joy in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cranberry almond chocolate clusters are incredibly easy to prepare, making snack time a breeze.
- They boast a delightful flavor profile that balances sweetness and nuttiness perfectly.
- Visually appealing with their vibrant colors, they make any dessert table pop.
- These clusters are versatile enough to enjoy as snacks or gifts for loved ones.
I remember the first time I made these with my friends; we couldn’t stop munching on them while watching our favorite movie!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Dark Chocolate Chips: Choose high-quality chocolate for a rich flavor that melts beautifully.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries add a delightful tartness that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Sliced Almonds: Opt for raw or toasted sliced almonds for added crunch; both options work wonderfully.
Sea Salt: A sprinkle enhances flavors and balances the sweetness; don’t skip this step!
Coconut Oil: Use refined coconut oil to help melt the chocolate smoothly without altering its flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Almond Chocolate Clusters
Prepare Your Workspace: Before diving into melting magic, clear your counter and gather all your ingredients and tools like bowls and baking sheets.
Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals until fully melted and smooth, stirring between each interval.
Add the Goodies: Once melted, remove from heat and fold in dried cranberries and sliced almonds until evenly coated with luscious chocolate.
Scoop It Out: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they have some space between them so they don’t stick together!
Sprinkle Some Love: Lightly sprinkle sea salt over each cluster before they cool completely; this step elevates their flavor profile to heavenly heights.
Chill Out!: Pop the baking sheet into the fridge for about 30 minutes or until clusters are set firm enough to hold their shape when removed.
Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Almond Chocolate Clusters with friends or stash them away for yourself—they’re that good!
You Must Know
- These Cranberry Almond Chocolate Clusters are a delightful mix of sweet and crunchy.
- They are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
- Perfect for snacking, gifting, or indulging during movie nights.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting the chocolate over low heat while preparing your almond and cranberry mixture. This ensures everything combines beautifully without burning the chocolate.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out almonds for walnuts or pecans. You can also add a dash of sea salt for that sweet-savory combo that’s simply irresistible.
Storing & Reheating
Store these clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. No reheating necessary; they taste best fresh!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a beautiful presentation, use parchment paper when cooling the clusters.
- Ensure your chocolate is tempered for a glossy finish.
- Don’t skip the cooling time; it helps set the clusters perfectly!
When I first made these Cranberry Almond Chocolate Clusters, my friends devoured them in minutes, declaring me a gourmet chef.
FAQ
What type of chocolate works best for these clusters?
Use high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate for rich flavor and smooth texture.
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Absolutely! Pecans, cashews, or even peanuts work well as delicious alternatives.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Avoid moisture and ensure all utensils are dry before melting the chocolate to keep it smooth.
Cranberry Almond Chocolate Clusters
Cranberry Almond Chocolate Clusters are a delightful blend of tart dried cranberries, crunchy almonds, and rich dark chocolate. These easy-to-make treats are perfect for snacking or gifting, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. Whether you’re reminiscing about holiday baking or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these clusters are sure to please. Pack them into festive containers for gifts or enjoy them fresh out of the fridge during movie nights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp refined coconut oil
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by clearing the counter and gathering all ingredients.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Fold in dried cranberries and sliced almonds until well-coated with chocolate.
- Drop heaping tablespoons onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Lightly sprinkle sea salt over each cluster before they cool completely.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until set.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 clusters (45g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Swap almonds for walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile. Ensure all utensils are dry when melting chocolate to prevent seizing. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
