Imagine a snack that perfectly balances rich, indulgent chocolate with the crunch of almonds and a touch of sea salt to heighten every bite. That’s exactly what the Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almonds Recipe delivers—a simple yet irresistible treat that combines intense dark chocolate with toasted almonds and flaky sea salt, creating a sweet and salty sensation you’ll find hard to resist. Whether you’re after a quick snack or a homemade gift, this recipe brings gourmet appeal right into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but oh so essential, each playing a key role in crafting the deep flavor, satisfying crunch, and delightful color that make the Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almonds Recipe such a standout snack.
- Whole almonds (1 cup): Raw or roasted, they provide the perfect nutty crunch and a nutritious base for this treat.
- Dark chocolate (6 oz, 70% cocoa or higher): The heart of the recipe, giving rich, intense chocolate flavor with a slightly bitter edge that complements the almonds.
- Flaky sea salt (1/2 teaspoon): Adds that magical contrast that enhances both the chocolate’s depth and the almonds’ natural sweetness.
How to Make Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almonds Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Almonds
If you’re starting with raw almonds, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial because it unlocks the oils within the nuts, boosting their aroma and crunch, transforming simple almonds into something wonderfully fragrant and inviting. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.
Step 2: Melt the Dark Chocolate
The best way to melt chocolate is gently and patiently. Use a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring the chocolate until it becomes silky smooth. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to avoid burning. Smooth melted chocolate ensures each almond gets a luscious coating.
Step 3: Coat the Almonds in Chocolate
Add your toasted almonds directly into the melted chocolate and stir well, making sure every nut is fully covered. This step is where the magic happens—the nuts transform, bathing in rich dark chocolate that will soon harden into an irresistible shell.
Step 4: Arrange and Sprinkle Sea Salt
Using a fork, lift each almond from the chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. While the chocolate is still glossy and soft, sprinkle a light dusting of flaky sea salt on top. The salt will amplify the flavors and provide that signature snap and shine.
Step 5: Chill Until Set
Pop the tray into the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to let the dark chocolate harden and lock in the perfect texture. Once set, your Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almonds are ready to enjoy or package as a thoughtful homemade gift.
How to Serve Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almonds Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of additional flaky sea salt right before serving adds an extra burst of flavor and keeps the nuts looking beautifully glistening. For a festive touch, dust lightly with cocoa powder or espresso powder to deepen the chocolate aroma.
Side Dishes
These almonds pair wonderfully with a simple cheese platter, fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears, or even a light white wine or sparkling water to cleanse your palate between bites. Their rich sweetness provides a delightful contrast to savory and fresh accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond just a snack bowl, try serving these almonds in small glass jars with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift. You can also press them into clusters on parchment paper, making bite-sized portions perfect for parties or afternoon pick-me-ups. Another idea: scatter them over a bowl of vanilla ice cream for added crunch and chocolate bliss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almonds in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness and freshness. If your home is warm, storing them in the fridge prevents the chocolate from melting and keeps that satisfying snap intact.
Freezing
If you want to keep these almonds on hand for longer, freezing works beautifully. Just place them in a sealed freezer bag or container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy the perfect texture.
Reheating
No reheating needed here since these almonds are best enjoyed cool or at room temperature. If the chocolate feels a bit too cold and hard after refrigeration or freezing, simply let them sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly, then dive in.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides almonds?
Absolutely! While almonds have a fantastic crunch and flavor, you can experiment with walnuts, pecans, or cashews. Just adjust toasting times accordingly and enjoy the same chocolatey, salty goodness.
Do I have to use 70% dark chocolate?
Not at all. You can use any dark chocolate you prefer, but 70% cocoa or higher brings the ideal balance of bitterness and sweetness that pairs perfectly with the salt and nuts.
What if I don’t have flaky sea salt?
Regular sea salt or kosher salt can work in a pinch, but flaky sea salt melts slower and provides a more delicate texture and flavor burst. It’s worth picking up for this recipe!
Can I make clusters instead of individual chocolate almonds?
Yes! Just spoon small piles of the chocolate-coated almonds onto parchment paper before chilling. Clusters are a fun variation and make a lovely gift option.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Definitely. Using dark chocolate that’s certified vegan and gluten-free maintains the vegan and gluten-free status of this snack, making it inclusive and delicious for many diets.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about making your own Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almonds Recipe at home—the perfect blend of textures and flavors that you just can’t find in store-bought snacks. So why not treat yourself or someone you love to this irresistible, easy-to-make delight? Once you try it, it’s likely to become a beloved snack in your repertoire, just like it is in mine.
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Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almonds Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almonds combine the rich bitterness of 70% cocoa dark chocolate with crunchy almonds and a hint of flaky sea salt for a perfect sweet and salty snack.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole almonds (raw or roasted)
- 6 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare almonds: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If using raw almonds, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until fragrant, then let cool.
- Melt chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water using the double boiler method or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring until smooth.
- Coat almonds: Add the almonds to the melted chocolate and stir to fully coat.
- Arrange almonds: Using a fork, lift each almond out, letting excess chocolate drip off, and place them individually on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Season with sea salt: Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt while the chocolate is still wet.
- Set chocolate: Refrigerate the almonds for 20–30 minutes until the chocolate sets.
- Store: Transfer the finished almonds to an airtight container and store at room temperature or in the fridge.
Notes
- Use roasted salted almonds for extra flavor, but reduce the amount of added sea salt.
- For chocolate almond clusters, spoon out small piles of coated almonds onto the parchment before chilling instead of placing individually.
- These treats make wonderful edible gifts or afternoon snacks.
