As I stood in my kitchen one evening, I felt the familiar urge for something sweet. I wanted to indulge, but I also craved a treat that nourished my body. That’s when I decided to whip up these Superfood Chocolate Almond Clusters. They are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, healthy fats, and a touch of crunch, making them the perfect guilt-free candy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
Prepare to immerse yourself in a delightful chocolate-making experience!
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the raw almonds on a baking sheet and toast them for about 10 minutes, or until they are golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
While the almonds are toasting, set a double boiler on the stove or use a microwave-safe bowl. If using the double boiler, fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil to the top pot, stirring occasionally until melted and smooth. If using a microwave, heat the chocolate in 30-second increments, stirring after each interval until fully melted.
Once the chocolate mixture is ready, remove it from the heat and stir in the chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix until everything is well combined and the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
Once the almonds are toasted, let them cool slightly. Then, add them to the chocolate mixture, stirring gently to coat each almond thoroughly.
Using a spoon, drop clusters of the chocolate-coated almonds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can make them as big or as small as you like, but I recommend aiming for bite-sized pieces.
Once all the clusters are formed, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened completely.
Once set, you can enjoy these Superfood Chocolate Almond Clusters right away or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They make a perfect snack or a delightful dessert to share with friends and family!
As I savored my first bite, the rich chocolate enveloped the crunchy almonds and the slight crunch from the chia seeds added an unexpected twist. This simple yet satisfying treat not only fulfilled my sweet tooth but also reminded me of the joy of creating healthy alternatives to traditional candies. Enjoy your culinary adventure!