Chocolate Almond Coconut Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Coconut Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup roasted almonds; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love experimenting with sweet treats, and these Chocolate Almond Coconut Clusters are one of my favorite creations! They combine the richness of chocolate with the crunch of almonds and the chewiness of coconut, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures. I appreciate how easy they are to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving, these clusters are sure to impress anyone with a sweet tooth. Let me share my secrets for achieving that ideal balance of crunch and sweetness!

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:55:13.169Z

During a recent baking session, I decided to use some ingredients I had on hand to create a unique dessert. The combination of chocolate, almonds, and coconut turned out to be a match made in heaven. I experimented with different ratios and finally landed on the perfect blend that provides a delightful taste in every bite.

While making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Clusters, I discovered that toasting the almonds enhances their flavor immensely. It adds a depth that complements the sweetness of the chocolate and the coconut perfectly. I highly recommend not skipping this step—it’s a game-changer!

        Why You'll Love These
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds and chewy coconut
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute treats
Versatile clusters that can be enjoyed anytime or gifted to loved ones

      

The Role of Each Ingredient

In this recipe, dark chocolate is not just for sweetness; it provides a rich, deep flavor that balances well with the texture of the almonds and coconut. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cocoa for a more intense taste. The added coconut oil helps with the melting process, ensuring a smooth consistency that makes the clusters easy to form and less likely to crack when set.

Shredded coconut gives the clusters their chewy texture, making each bite an adventure in flavor and mouthfeel. Unsweetened coconut is ideal as it prevents the clusters from becoming overly sugary. The roasted almonds not only add crunch but also a nutty richness that complements the chocolate beautifully. If you prefer, feel free to substitute the almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.

Forming Perfect Clusters

When dropping the mixture onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, aim for consistency in size—about 2 tablespoons per cluster. This will ensure even setting and a uniform bite size. If you're finding the mixture too sticky, lightly oil your spoon with a bit of coconut oil to help it glide smoothly when forming the clusters. Don't worry if they appear a bit uneven; imperfections add to the homemade charm!

After chilling them in the refrigerator, check for firmness before removing the clusters from the parchment. They should feel solid to the touch and glossy on the outside. If your chocolate doesn’t harden completely, you might have used too much coconut oil, or the chocolate may not have been melted properly. Next time, ensure you're stirring often and maintaining a gentle heat to avoid overheating the chocolate.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your tasty Chocolate Almond Coconut Clusters!

Ingredients

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1 cup roasted almonds
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

All set? Let’s get started on making these delicious clusters!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to make your delicious Chocolate Almond Coconut Clusters.

Melt the Chocolate

In a double boiler, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Stir occasionally until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut and roasted almonds. Pour the melted chocolate over the coconut and almonds, mixing until everything is well-coated.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop clusters of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Aim for about 2 tablespoons per cluster.

Chill to Set

Refrigerate the baking sheet for about 20 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened. Once set, carefully remove the clusters from the parchment paper.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Almond Coconut Clusters as a snack or a sweet treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, experiment by adding dried fruits or using different types of nuts in your clusters. This allows for a variety of flavor combinations!

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Chocolate Almond Coconut Clusters, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place clusters in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for about 1-2 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen clusters, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This will restore their chewy texture and make them delightful to bite into. Avoid microwaving them to thaw, as this can cause the chocolate to become soggy or bloom, which doesn’t impact flavor but affects appearance.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top of each cluster before they set for an enhanced flavor contrast. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt boosts the chocolate's richness and adds a gourmet feel. Additionally, you can mix in other ingredients like dried cranberries, raisins, or sunflower seeds for a twist on texture and flavor.

For a more tropical flair, try incorporating chopped dried mango or cashews. Just keep the total volume of mix-ins roughly the same to ensure the chocolate coats everything evenly. Experimenting with different nuts or using flavored chocolate (like mint or orange-infused) can also provide unique taste experiences each time you make these clusters!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that this will result in a sweeter flavor.

→ How should I store the clusters?

Store the clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make these clusters vegan?

Absolutely! Just ensure that the chocolate chips you use are dairy-free and your brands of coconut do not contain additives.

→ What can I substitute for almonds?

You can use any nut of your choice or even seeds for a different texture, like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds!