Description
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these easy-to-make Dark Chocolate Covered Hazelnuts. This decadent snack combines crunchy roasted hazelnuts with rich, melted dark chocolate, enhanced by a hint of coconut oil for a smooth finish and an optional sprinkle of sea salt for added depth. Perfect as a holiday gift, a delightful dessert, or a simple treat to enjoy anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole hazelnuts
- 1 1/4 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt or flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast Hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper and spread the hazelnuts in an even layer. Roast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned. Remove and let cool.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring thoroughly between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Hazelnuts and Chocolate: Add the toasted hazelnuts to the melted chocolate mixture and stir well, ensuring all nuts are evenly coated.
- Form Clusters: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the chocolate-coated hazelnuts onto the lined sheet pan, shaping them into clusters. You can make larger clusters (about 15) or smaller ones (up to 24), depending on your preference.
- Optional Salt Topping: Sprinkle sea salt generously over the clusters to add a contrasting flavor.
- Chill to Set: Place the sheet pan in the refrigerator and allow the hazelnut clusters to set and harden for at least 30 minutes or longer for best results.
- Serve and Store: Once set, enjoy immediately or store the clusters in the fridge to keep them firm. They also freeze well for several months.
Notes
- For variation, add mix-ins like chopped candied ginger or dried cranberries into the chocolate with the hazelnuts for extra flavor and texture.
- If preferred, dip individual hazelnuts instead of making clusters for bite-sized treats.
- Store the finished clusters in the fridge for best texture or freeze for long-term storage.
- Use any chocolate variety you prefer, such as milk or white chocolate, if desired.
- Ensure to cool the hazelnuts after roasting before mixing with chocolate to prevent melting or seizing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: dark chocolate covered hazelnuts, chocolate hazelnut clusters, roasted hazelnuts, chocolate snack, holiday treats
