Chocolate Coconut Almond Clusters

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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Almond Clusters for a sweet snack or a quick treat to share with friends. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and chewy coconut creates an irresistible flavor and texture that always leaves everyone wanting more. It’s a simple recipe that comes together in just a few minutes, and I find that it's perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth or impressing guests at gatherings. You won’t believe how easy it is to make these delightful clusters at home!

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:52:11.848Z

During one of my baking sessions, I wanted to create something that balanced indulgence with a hint of healthiness, and that’s when I stumbled upon the idea for Chocolate Coconut Almond Clusters. The mix of flavors is fantastic, and using good-quality dark chocolate elevates the taste. I suggest melting the chocolate gently to avoid burning it, which ensures a smooth texture for coating the almonds and coconut.

These clusters are not only easy to make, but they also make a beautiful presentation on a dessert table. I love packing them into cute bags for friends, and they have even become my go-to gift for last-minute celebrations. Trust me, once you serve these, they’ll become a favorite among your friends and family!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich layers of flavor with chocolate, coconut, and almond.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute treats.
A delightful combination of textures that’ll leave you craving more.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Coconut Almond Clusters plays a crucial role in developing their unique taste and texture. The dark chocolate not only delivers a rich flavor but also lends a satisfying melt-in-your-mouth quality that balances perfectly with the crunchy almonds. Shredded coconut adds chewiness, enhancing the overall enjoyment and making each bite a delightful experience. Opt for unsweetened coconut to control the sweetness, ensuring it complements the dark chocolate rather than overpowering it.

Using whole almonds provides a satisfying crunch that can be enhanced by roasting them beforehand. Roasting the almonds for 8-10 minutes at 350°F results in a more complex nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, consider substituting sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, which still offer a great texture without the allergens.

Tips for Perfect Clusters

When melting the chocolate, be sure to do so gently to prevent burning. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until glossy and smooth. If your chocolate seizes up or becomes grainy, try adding a half teaspoon of coconut oil to rescue it. This will help achieve the silky consistency needed to coat the other ingredients effectively. Additionally, ensure your mixing bowl is completely dry; any moisture can affect the chocolate's melting process.

When forming the clusters, it's important not to overcrowd them on the baking sheet. Leave space between each cluster to allow for proper cooling and setting. Using a spoon or a small cookie scoop helps to achieve uniform sizes, which not only looks appealing but also ensures even setting. For a variation, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of each cluster just before they set to enhance the flavor contrast.

Ingredients

For the Clusters

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup whole almonds
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Mix all ingredients well before forming clusters.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

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

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the shredded coconut, whole almonds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the melted chocolate until everything is well combined.

Form Clusters

Using a spoon, drop clusters of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Shape them into manageable bites, ensuring they hold together.

Chill and Set

Refrigerate the clusters for about 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is set and firm.

Serve

Once set, enjoy your delicious Chocolate Coconut Almond Clusters, or pack them up for later!

Ensure that clusters are stored in an airtight container for freshness.

Pro Tips

Using a mixture of dark and milk chocolate can provide a more complex flavor profile if desired. Feel free to customize the clusters with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Coconut Almond Clusters can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy schedules. Once your clusters have set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, where they will keep well for up to a month. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

If you're planning to serve these clusters at gatherings, consider making a larger batch and packaging them in decorative boxes or jars for a thoughtful homemade gift. Just be mindful to let them return to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture—cold chocolate can be a bit too firm.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with the flavor profile of these clusters! For a tropical twist, add chopped dried mango or pineapple to the chocolate mixture. You can also experiment with different types of nuts such as pistachios or hazelnuts for varied texture and taste. Just make sure to keep the overall ratio of chocolate and dry ingredients similar for best results.

Another option is to incorporate spices such as cinnamon or sea salt to enhance the chocolate's richness. A sprinkle of cayenne pepper could add an exciting kick, balancing the sweetness with a hint of heat. Options like almond extract or orange zest can also infuse additional flavors into the chocolate, making each cluster uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long do these clusters last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

→ Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts like pecans or walnuts.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Absolutely! Just use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil.

→ Can I add sweeteners to the mixture?

Certainly! Adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup can enhance the sweetness.