Chocolate Almond Coconut Snack Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Coconut Snack Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup almonds, chopped; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

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I love whipping up these Chocolate Almond Coconut Snack Clusters whenever I need a quick, energy-boosting treat. With just a few ingredients, they come together in minutes and satisfy my sweet cravings without the guilt. Each cluster is a delightful blend of rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and chewy coconut. It’s the perfect snack to keep on hand, whether for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or a post-workout fuel. Trust me, once you try them, they'll become a staple in your kitchen too!

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-21T21:37:35.067Z

When I first decided to make these clusters, I had some leftover chocolate and an abundance of almonds and coconut in my pantry. I was pleasantly surprised by how easy they were to prepare. Melting the chocolate over low heat ensures a smooth and glossy finish, which is key to making them appealing and delicious. Don't rush this step!

During my first attempt, I realized that mixing the nuts and coconut into the chocolate while it was still warm helps everything stick together beautifully. This little tip makes the clusters hold their shape and enhances the flavor. Since then, I’ve made these clusters countless times, experimenting with different nuts or adding a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor dimension.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate that pairs beautifully with crunchy almonds
Chewy coconut adds a tropical twist to every bite
Quick to prepare, making them perfect for any snack time

      

Mastering the Chocolate Melting Process

Melting chocolate is a crucial step in this recipe, and it requires attention to prevent burning. Using a small saucepan over low heat promotes slow and even melting, reducing the chance of scorching. Stir continuously with a rubber spatula for a smooth, glossy finish without lumps. If you prefer, you can also melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it's fully melted. This flexibility allows you to choose the best method for your kitchen setup.

Letting the melted chocolate cool slightly is important before mixing it with the other ingredients. If the chocolate is too hot, it can cause the shredded coconut to become overly soft, losing its texture. Cooling it just for a minute ensures a better consistency for the clusters while still allowing for easy mixing. Look for a temperature that’s warm but not scalding to the touch; this will keep the integrity of the coconut and almonds intact.

The Art of Cluster Formation

When scooping the mixture onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, consider using a standard tablespoon or even a small cookie scoop for uniformity. This not only makes for an aesthetically pleasing treat but also ensures even distribution of chocolate, nuts, and coconut in each cluster. If you prefer larger bites, feel free to double the amount in each scoop, keeping in mind that this may slightly increase the chilling time required for setting.

Shaping the clusters can be an enjoyable task! Lightly pressing the mixture together with your fingers helps them maintain their form once set. If you notice some clusters falling apart after chilling, don’t worry; a gentle squeeze before serving can help them hold together better. For added flair, you could sprinkle a few extra chopped almonds or coconut flakes on top of the clusters before chilling for a more decorative finish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Clusters

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup almonds, chopped
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Now that you have everything, let’s move on to the fun part!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your clusters:

Melt the Chocolate

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool for a minute.

Mix Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped almonds, shredded coconut, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the melted chocolate until everything is well coated.

Form Clusters

Using a tablespoon, scoop out the mixture and drop it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Shape into clusters as desired.

Chill to Set

Refrigerate the clusters for about 10–15 minutes, or until the chocolate is set. Enjoy your homemade snack!

Enjoy these delicious snacks anytime you need a boost of energy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these clusters with your favorite nuts or add dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.

Essential Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient plays a significant role in creating the perfect Chocolate Almond Coconut Snack Clusters. The dark chocolate provides a rich and slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the honey or maple syrup, while the almonds contribute a satisfying crunch. Opt for raw or roasted almonds based on your preference; roasting adds a deeper flavor, enhancing the overall experience. If you're aiming for a nut-free version, sunflower seeds can be a great substitute that maintains a similar texture.

Unsweetened shredded coconut not only adds chewiness but also gives a tropical flair that balances the richness of the chocolate. Be sure to use high-quality coconut, as the flavor dramatically affects the clusters. If coconut isn’t to your liking, consider using chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a chewier texture and a burst of sweetness, although this will change the flavor profile.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Almond Coconut Snack Clusters are incredibly versatile when it comes to storage. Once fully set, you can transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, they can be frozen for 2-3 months. Just ensure you layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thawing them in the refrigerator prevents condensation that can cause the chocolate to sweat, keeping them looking as good as they taste.

If you’re looking to enjoy them at a later date or preparedness is your goal, you can also prepare the chocolate and mix it with the dry ingredients ahead of time, storing them in a sealed bag until you’re ready to form clusters. This makes last-minute snack preparation a breeze, and you’ll always have your ingredients ready to whip up these delicious bites.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can, but keep in mind that milk chocolate is sweeter and may alter the taste of the clusters.

→ How do I store the clusters?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Consider adding nuts like cashews, peanuts, or even some dried cranberries for an extra twist.

→ Are these clusters gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you verify that your chocolate and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.