Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Clusters

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Clusters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 20 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Clusters for a quick treat or snack. These delightful clusters are incredibly easy to whip up and are filled with the rich flavors of chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts. Every time I make them, the aroma of melting chocolate fills my kitchen, and I never fail to sneak a taste. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed during a quiet moment at home, these clusters are sure to impress anyone with their decadent flavor and satisfying crunch. Plus, they come together in no time, making them a go-to recipe for me!

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:10:22.209Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Clusters, the goal was to create a sweet treat that wasn’t overly difficult. I was amazed at how quickly all the ingredients came together. I prefer using dark chocolate for a more intense flavor, and I believe the addition of a sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness beautifully.

Another detail I discovered is to let the clusters set in the refrigerator instead of at room temperature. This not only helps them harden faster but also gives them a delightful snap as you bite into them. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

        Why You'll Love These Clusters
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts
Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
Perfect for a sweet snack or a delightful dessert

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality dark chocolate is essential for achieving the rich flavor profile in these clusters. Opt for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a deeper taste. Many commercial brands work well, but I find that artisanal chocolates often yield the best results. The quality of chocolate not only affects flavor but also dictates the melting process, ensuring a smooth and glossy finish that holds the clusters together beautifully.

Hazelnuts are the star of this snack, adding a delightful crunch that complements the creamy chocolate. Toasting them enhances their natural oils, intensifying their flavor. If you're short on time, pre-torasted hazelnuts are readily available at many grocery stores. However, toasting them at home in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes can produce a fresher taste. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Techniques for Perfect Chocolate Clusters

When melting the chocolate, use a microwave-safe bowl and start with low power to avoid overheating, which can lead to seizing. A gentle approach helps maintain a smooth consistency. Stirring between intervals is crucial; I recommend a total of 1.5 to 2 minutes, depending on your microwave's wattage. If you notice any lumps, continue to stir until melted completely. This ensures that the chocolate fully integrates with the coconut oil, resulting in a glossy finish.

Forming the clusters can be adjusted based on personal preference. For bite-sized snacks, aim for tablespoon-sized mounds. If you desire larger clusters, use a 1/4 cup measurement. It's essential to space them out on the parchment-lined baking sheet, as they will slightly spread while cooling. After refrigeration, if any clusters stick to the parchment, gently peel them away to maintain their shape without breakage.

Ingredients

For the Snack Clusters

1 cup hazelnuts, toasted
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

Ensure that your hazelnuts are toasted for the best flavor!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Mix Ingredients

Once melted, remove from the microwave and stir in the toasted hazelnuts and sea salt. If using, mix in the dried cranberries as well.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop small clusters of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can shape them as small mounds according to your preferred size.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the clusters for about 10 minutes to allow them to harden. Once set, serve and enjoy your delicious treats!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider drizzling some melted white chocolate over the clusters before chilling.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Clusters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. However, to preserve their crunchiness, keeping them in the refrigerator is a great option if you plan to enjoy them over a longer period. Storing them in the fridge can extend their freshness to two weeks, but be cautious as they may get a bit firmer in texture.

If you want to make a larger batch ahead of time, consider freezing them. Individually wrap each cluster in plastic wrap or place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits based on personal preference. Almonds or walnuts can replace hazelnuts for a different flavor profile. For a tropical twist, consider adding dried pineapple or coconut flakes alongside the cranberries; these flavors meld beautifully with chocolate. Just remember to keep the ratio of dry ingredients in check to maintain the right texture.

If you're looking to tailor these clusters for a special diet, consider using dairy-free or vegan chocolate. There are many excellent brands available today that provide the same luscious taste without dairy. Alternatively, you can swap coconut oil for a non-dairy butter substitute, ensuring the clusters remain luscious and decadent while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that milk chocolate will make the clusters sweeter.

→ How long do these clusters last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I add other nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add other nuts like almonds or walnuts for variety.

→ Is it possible to make them vegan?

Yes, just choose dairy-free chocolate chips and omit the coconut oil for a vegan version.