Dark Chocolate Cashew Clusters are the ultimate sweet and salty snack! With just three simple ingredients, these easy-to-make treats are perfect for when you need a quick snack or an indulgent dessert. The rich dark chocolate pairs perfectly with crunchy cashews, and the sprinkle of sea salt adds a delightful contrast. These clusters are ideal for serving at parties, giving as gifts, or enjoying as a personal treat!

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 24 cashews (about 4 per cluster)

• 4 oz dark chocolate (about 70% cocoa)

• Sea salt (for sprinkling)

Directions

1. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
   Line a 24-cup mini muffin tin with paper liners.

2. Arrange the Cashews:
   Place about 4 cashews in each muffin tin liner.

3. Melt the Chocolate:
   Break the dark chocolate into pieces and place it in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on medium heat for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted.

4. Spoon the Chocolate:
   Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate over the cashews in each muffin liner.

5. Sprinkle with Salt:
   Lightly sprinkle sea salt on top of each cluster to add a burst of flavor.

6. Chill the Clusters:
   Refrigerate the clusters until set, which should take about 30 minutes.

7. Serve:
   Once the chocolate has set, the clusters are ready to be enjoyed! Keep them refrigerated or store them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrients (Per Serving – Estimated)

Calories: 120 kcal
Carbohydrates: 7 g
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Sodium: 50 mg
Cholesterol: 2 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 5 g

Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate and Cashews

Dark chocolate, particularly varieties with a high cocoa content (70% or more), offers a range of health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants, known as flavonoids, have been linked to improved heart health by promoting better blood flow, lowering blood pressure, and improving cholesterol levels. Additionally, dark chocolate contains iron, magnesium, and zinc, all of which are important for maintaining energy levels, supporting the immune system, and ensuring proper muscle function.

Cashews, the other key ingredient in these clusters, also offer several health benefits. They are an excellent source of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels. Cashews are also rich in protein, providing a good source of plant-based protein for muscle repair and growth. In addition to their healthy fats and protein, cashews are loaded with vitamins and minerals like magnesium, copper, and zinc, all of which contribute to overall well-being.

The combination of dark chocolate and cashews creates a snack that provides healthy fats, protein, antioxidants, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, making it a guilt-free indulgence that supports both your taste buds and your health.

The Sweet and Salty Combination

One of the most beloved aspects of Dark Chocolate Cashew Clusters is the combination of sweet and salty flavors. Sweet and salty snacks have long been a favorite of snack lovers, and these clusters are no exception. The richness of the dark chocolate provides a satisfying sweetness, while the cashews add a natural, buttery richness that complements the chocolate beautifully. The light sprinkle of sea salt enhances these flavors, creating the perfect balance between savory and sweet.

Sea salt is the ideal finishing touch for these clusters, as it helps to bring out the natural flavors of the chocolate and cashews. Salt has the ability to amplify sweetness, which is why a pinch of sea salt can take the flavor of these clusters to the next level. It provides a subtle, salty kick that makes the sweetness of the chocolate even more pronounced, creating a complex flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.

This sweet and salty combination also offers a satisfying mouthfeel, with the creamy chocolate melting in your mouth and the cashews providing a crunchy texture. Each bite delivers a little bit of everything: smooth chocolate, crunchy nuts, and a hint of salt, making it a truly enjoyable treat.

Simplicity in Preparation

One of the standout features of Dark Chocolate Cashew Clusters is their simplicity. This recipe requires just three ingredients—dark chocolate, cashews, and sea salt—and the preparation process is quick and easy. The only real cooking involved is melting the chocolate, which can be done quickly in the microwave. The rest of the process involves layering the cashews in muffin tins, spooning the melted chocolate over them, and then allowing the clusters to set in the refrigerator.

This simplicity makes these clusters an ideal treat to prepare when you’re short on time but still want something delicious. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute snack to enjoy at home, or need a quick and easy dessert for guests, this recipe fits the bill. You can also easily double or triple the recipe to make larger batches, which is perfect for holiday parties, gatherings, or gifting.

Customizing Your Cashew Clusters

While the basic version of Dark Chocolate Cashew Clusters is already incredibly delicious, you can easily customize them to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. For example, you can experiment with different types of dark chocolate. While the recipe calls for 70% cocoa, you can adjust the cocoa percentage depending on how bitter or sweet you want the chocolate to be. A higher cocoa percentage will result in a more intense, slightly bitter chocolate flavor, while a lower cocoa percentage will create a sweeter taste.

In addition to adjusting the chocolate, you can add other mix-ins to the clusters. Chopped dried fruits, such as cranberries, raisins, or apricots, can add a touch of natural sweetness and chewiness. You can also add roasted almonds, pistachios, or walnuts for a different texture and flavor profile. If you’re a fan of spicier treats, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili flakes can give the clusters a bit of heat, creating an exciting contrast with the sweetness of the chocolate.

The Perfect Snack or Gift

Dark Chocolate Cashew Clusters are an incredibly versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. As a snack, they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still providing some nutritional value. With their protein and fiber content, they can help keep you full and energized, making them a great choice for a mid-afternoon snack or a post-workout treat.

They also make a fantastic gift, particularly for holidays or special occasions. You can package them in a decorative tin or jar with a ribbon for a homemade, thoughtful gift that’s sure to be appreciated. The beauty of these clusters lies in their simplicity and the fact that they can be made in large batches, which makes them ideal for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re gifting them to a friend, bringing them to a party, or serving them at a gathering, Dark Chocolate Cashew Clusters are a crowd-pleaser that will undoubtedly impress.

Storing and Enjoying Your Clusters

One of the great things about Dark Chocolate Cashew Clusters is their shelf life. Once they’ve been chilled and set, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This makes them perfect for meal prepping, as you can prepare a batch in advance and have them ready whenever you need a snack. If you prefer them at room temperature, simply allow them to sit out for a few minutes before eating.

If you plan on making a large batch, you can even freeze the clusters for longer storage. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will keep for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them at room temperature for a few minutes, and they’ll be as delicious as the day you made them.

Conclusion: A Simple Yet Indulgent Treat

In conclusion, Dark Chocolate Cashew Clusters are the ultimate sweet and salty snack that brings together three simple ingredients to create a delightful and satisfying treat. The combination of rich dark chocolate, crunchy cashews, and a touch of sea salt makes these clusters a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you enjoy them as a quick snack, a dessert, or a thoughtful gift, these clusters are easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. With their health benefits, simplicity, and versatility, Dark Chocolate Cashew Clusters are sure to become a favorite in your snack repertoire. They provide the indulgence of chocolate with the added benefits of protein and healthy fats from the cashews, making them the perfect treat for both your taste buds and your well-being.