Valentines Treats Chocolate Almond Clusters

Name: Valentines Treats Chocolate Almond Clusters
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup roasted almonds; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Valentine's Treats Chocolate Almond Clusters because they bring together my favorite flavors in one delightful bite. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds creates a treat that's perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or simply indulging in a sweet moment, these clusters are always a hit. Plus, they're super easy to prepare, making them a fun activity to do for a loved one. I promise, once you try them, you'll want to make them again and again!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:22:14.200Z

When I first created these Chocolate Almond Clusters, I was searching for a unique snack idea to surprise my partner. The process was simpler than I expected, yet the outcome was impressively delicious. I discovered that toasting the almonds before mixing them with chocolate enhances their flavor, lending some extra depth to each bite.

Another tip I learned along the way is to let the chocolate set at room temperature instead of in the fridge. This allows the clusters to maintain a beautiful sheen and ensures they don't become too cold and hard. With every batch I make, I find myself falling deeper in love!

        Why You'll Love These Treats
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy roasted almonds
Perfectly sweet with a hint of salt for balance
Quick and easy to make, great for surprise gifts

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key players in these Chocolate Almond Clusters are the dark chocolate chips and roasted almonds. The chocolate provides a deep, rich flavor that contrasts beautifully with the nutty crunch of the almonds. Opt for high-quality chocolate chips, preferably 70% cacao, as they will not only taste better but also give you a smoother melt. Roasting the almonds beforehand enhances their flavor, so if you have raw almonds on hand, roast them in a dry skillet for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.

Coconut oil plays a crucial role in this recipe beyond just helping the chocolate melt smoothly. It adds a subtle tropical note and helps the chocolate remain shiny as it hardens, providing that glossy finish. If you prefer, you can substitute the coconut oil with a neutral oil like canola or even unsalted butter, but keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly.

The finishing touch of sea salt is not merely an optional garnish; it elevates the overall flavor by balancing the sweetness of the chocolate. Choose a flaky sea salt for a satisfying crunch. If you want to experiment, consider using flavored salts, like smoked sea salt, to add an unexpected depth to your clusters.

Perfecting Your Technique

When melting the chocolate, ensure you use a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil, which can cause water to splatter into the chocolate, leading to clumping. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and glossy, which usually takes about 5-8 minutes. Be cautious not to overheat; overheated chocolate can become grainy and unusable.

Dropping the chocolate-almond mixture onto the baking sheet is a chance to be creative! You can use two spoons to create uneven clusters for a more rustic look, or you can use a cookie scoop for uniformity. Remember to leave some space between each cluster, as they will spread slightly as they cool. If you're aiming for an eye-catching presentation, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the top before they set.

If you find that your chocolate has hardened before you can form all the clusters, just return it to the heat for a minute or two to soften it up again. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 10-second increments, stirring between each until it returns to a pourable state. Being aware of the temperature is key—chocolate should never be boiling hot; rather, it should be warm to the touch.

Ingredients

For the Clusters

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup roasted almonds
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 tablespoon coconut oil

Gather all these ingredients before you start for a smooth preparation process!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water to create a double boiler effect, stirring continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Combine with Almonds

Remove the bowl from the heat and quickly stir in the roasted almonds. Ensure they are fully coated with chocolate for maximum flavor.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop clusters of the chocolate-almond mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. They can be as big or small as you like!

Add Sea Salt

Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on each cluster for that delightful sweet-and-salty contrast.

Let Set

Allow the clusters to set at room temperature until the chocolate hardens completely. This may take about 20 minutes.

Enjoy your delicious clusters as a sweet treat or gift them to someone special!

Pro Tips

Try adding dried fruit or a sprinkle of crushed pretzels for additional flavors and crunch!

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Almond Clusters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a particularly warm climate, it's best to keep them in the fridge to prevent the chocolate from melting. Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving to enjoy the full flavor and texture of the chocolate and almonds.

If you're making these treats in advance, consider freezing them for a longer shelf life. Place the clusters on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a zip-top bag once solid. They'll keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Just take them out a few hours before you plan to share them to allow them to thaw gradually.

For gifting, you can also layer these clusters in a decorative box or jar, separating each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Personalize the gift by adding a handwritten note or a theme, such as pairing these clusters with homemade chocolate dipped strawberries for a delightful Valentine's Day treat.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Chocolate Almond Clusters are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your presentation by serving them alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for that classic chocolate and berry pairing. For a more festive look, try adding a sprinkle of edible gold dust or colored sugar on top before the chocolate sets for a glamorous touch.

If you'd like to switch things up, consider substituting half of the almonds with other nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even adding dried fruit such as cranberries or cherries for a chewier texture. You can also mix in a tablespoon of vanilla extract or orange zest into the melted chocolate to infuse additional flavor.

For those looking for a low-sugar or sugar-free option, use sugar-free chocolate chips and make sure to adjust the quantity of sea salt, as some brands might have different sweetness levels. This variation retains the core concept of the recipe while catering to different dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate; it will create a sweeter cluster!

→ How should I store the clusters?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! They are a great make-ahead treat. Just ensure they are stored properly to maintain freshness.

→ What other nuts can I use?

You can substitute almonds with your favorite nuts like walnuts, pecans, or cashews.