Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Vegan Chocolate Nut Clusters! These sweet and salty treats are quick to make, packed with healthy nuts, and covered in smooth, rich chocolate. Perfect for a snack or a gift!
Vegan Chocolate Nut Clusters Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts, pecans, or your favorites)
- 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (or chopped dark chocolate)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (or any plant-based oil)
- 1/4 tsp sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
- 1/4 cup dried fruit (optional, like cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for extra texture)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Nuts:
- Roughly chop your mixed nuts into smaller pieces if they are large. You can use a mix of your favorite nuts or go for a single type, like almonds or cashews.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate and coconut oil using a double boiler. Just place the bowl over a pot of simmering water and stir until melted.
- Combine Nuts and Chocolate:
- Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the vanilla extract (if using) for extra flavor.
- Add the chopped nuts (and dried fruit or shredded coconut, if desired) to the melted chocolate. Stir until the nuts are fully coated in chocolate.
- Form the Clusters:
- Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Spoon small mounds of the chocolate-nut mixture onto the lined tray. Each mound will form a cluster, so try to keep them bite-sized. You can make them as large or small as you like.
- Chill and Set:
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top of each cluster for a sweet and salty balance (optional).
- Refrigerate the chocolate nut clusters for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened and the clusters have set.
- Serve and Store:
- Once the chocolate has fully set, remove the clusters from the fridge and enjoy!
- Store the clusters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. They also freeze well if you want to make a larger batch and store them for longer.
Tips:
- Nut Variety: Feel free to mix and match nuts based on your preferences. Macadamia nuts, hazelnuts, or even pistachios work wonderfully too.
- Add-ins: You can also add seeds like chia, sunflower, or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Make it sweeter: If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can drizzle a little maple syrup or agave nectar into the chocolate before mixing in the nuts.
These Vegan Chocolate Nut Clusters are the perfect balance of rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and a touch of sweetness. They’re quick, satisfying, and make a great gift or snack for any occasion! Enjoy!
