Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Clusters

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Clusters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g hazelnuts, toasted and roughly chopped; 2 tablespoons coconut oil; Pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Pastry Magic

I absolutely love making Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Clusters, especially when I need an easy, quick treat. These clusters are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, making them the perfect indulgence for when I need something satisfying yet not too heavy. Plus, whipping them up takes minimal time, so I can satisfy my chocolate cravings in minutes! You really can’t go wrong with this delicious snack.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:07:15.497Z

As I set out to create these Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Clusters, I initially experimented with various nut combinations. However, hazelnuts turned out to be the star, perfectly complementing the rich chocolate. The simplicity of melting chocolate and mixing in nuts became my go-to recipe for quick entertaining.

In my kitchen, these clusters have become a staple for movie nights. The trick I discovered was to allow the clusters to cool on parchment paper, ensuring they keep their delightful shape. By using good quality chocolate, I'm rewarded with an indulgence that's as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eyes.

        Why You'll Love These Clusters
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts
Quick and easy preparation for last-minute treats
Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without overindulging

      

The Chocolate Choice

Selecting the right type of chocolate is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your clusters. For a rich treat, I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa. This not only gives a deeper chocolate flavor but also balances well with the sweetness of the hazelnuts. Avoid chocolate chips, as they often contain stabilizers that can prevent them from melting smoothly.

If you're in the mood for something a bit sweeter, you can swap half of the dark chocolate with milk chocolate. This variation will give your clusters a creamier texture while still allowing the nuttiness from the hazelnuts to shine through. Experimenting with different chocolate percentages can lead to delightful variations in taste.

The Role of Hazelnuts

Toasting hazelnuts before use enhances their flavor, giving them a wonderfully nutty, aromatic quality that complements the chocolate beautifully. I recommend toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the pan frequently to prevent burning. You want them to be golden brown and fragrant, which will elevate the overall flavor of the clusters considerably.

If you're allergic to hazelnuts or wish to try something different, feel free to substitute them with pecans or walnuts. Both nuts bring their own unique profiles and pair well with chocolate. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces to maintain the texture of the clusters.

Storing Your Clusters

After your clusters have set in the refrigerator, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week without losing their delightful texture. However, I find that keeping them in the fridge not only prolongs their freshness but also makes for a refreshing treat when you're craving something sweet.

If you're making these ahead of time for an event, you can prepare and freeze the clusters as well. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator, maintaining their delicious integrity.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Clusters

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g hazelnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
2 tablespoons coconut oil
Pinch of sea salt

Make sure to toast the hazelnuts for enhanced flavor!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a double boiler or microwave, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together until smooth. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Combine with Hazelnuts

Remove the melted chocolate from heat and mix in the chopped hazelnuts and a pinch of sea salt, stirring until well combined.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop clusters of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Each cluster should be about a tablespoon in size.

Cool and Set

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until the clusters are firm.

Once set, these clusters can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For added flair, try drizzling white chocolate on top of the clusters before cooling them.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate seizes while melting (which can happen if water gets in), don't despair! You can save it by adding a teaspoon of coconut oil and gently reheating, stirring until smooth again. Always ensure that your mixing bowls and utensils are completely dry before contacting chocolate to prevent seizing.

In case your clusters don’t hold their shape after cooling, it usually means the chocolate wasn't melted thoroughly or was mixed improperly with the hazelnuts. Next time, ensure you stir the mixture until it is fully homogeneous before forming the clusters.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Hazelnut Snack Clusters make a great addition to a cheese platter for a fancy gathering. Their rich flavor contrasts nicely with savory cheeses, elevating your appetizer offerings. You can even chop them up and sprinkle them over ice cream or yogurt to add a delightful crunch.

If you're feeling creative, try drizzling a little white chocolate over the top of the clusters before they set. It not only adds a beautiful aesthetic but also introduces a new layer of sweetness that can balance the darkness of the chocolate perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate; it will create a sweeter flavor.

→ How long do these clusters last?

The clusters can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

→ Can I use other nuts?

Absolutely! Almonds or walnuts would also work beautifully in this recipe.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure the chocolate is gluten-free, this recipe will be gluten-free.