Chocolate covered almonds offer the perfect combination of crunchy, nutty goodness and smooth, velvety chocolate. They strike the ideal balance between indulgence and wholesome snacking, making them a go-to treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as a midday pick-me-up, a festive party snack, or a thoughtful homemade gift, these chocolatey bites are surprisingly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Customize them with a sprinkle of sea salt, a dash of warm spices, or a drizzle of caramel for an extra layer of flavor. Skip the store-bought version and craft your own for a fresher, more satisfying experience. Let’s get started!
Table of contents
Ingredient lineup
To create the perfect chocolate covered almonds, gather these simple yet essential ingredients along with optional add-ins for extra flavor and texture.
The essentials
- Raw almonds: provide a crunchy, nutty base.
(Substitute: roasted almonds for a deeper flavor.) - Dark chocolate (70% or higher): melts smoothly and gives a rich, slightly bitter taste.
(Substitute: milk chocolate for a sweeter version or white chocolate for a creamy twist.) - Coconut oil: helps create a glossy, smooth chocolate coating.
(Substitute: cocoa butter for a more traditional chocolate tempering.)
Optional flavor boosters
- Vanilla extract: enhances the natural sweetness of the chocolate.
- Espresso powder: deepens the chocolate flavor for a mocha-inspired treat.
- Cinnamon; adds warmth and complexity to the coating.
- Cayenne pepper: gives a subtle spicy kick to contrast with the chocolate.
Optional toppings
- Flaky sea salt: balances sweetness and enhances the chocolatey depth.
- Crushed nuts: adds an extra crunch; try pistachios, hazelnuts, or pecans.
- Cocoa powder: dust the almonds for a slightly bitter, elegant finish.
- Shredded coconut; adds a tropical touch.
Step-by-step directions
Making chocolate-covered almonds is easy, but a few key steps will guarantee a glossy, flavorful finish. Follow these steps for a foolproof treat that’s ideal for snacking, gifting, or adding to desserts.
Toast the almonds
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Spread the almonds in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Toast them for 8–10 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they are golden and fragrant. Toasting deepens their nutty flavor and adds an irresistible crunch. Let the almonds cool slightly before coating to prevent the chocolate from seizing.
Melt the chocolate
Break the chocolate into small, even pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl. If using a double boiler, place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom doesn’t touch the water. Stir continuously until melted. If using a microwave, heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Once melted, stir in vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, or a dash of cinnamon for extra depth of flavor. For an extra glossy finish, let the melted chocolate cool slightly before dipping the almonds.
Coat the almonds
Add the toasted almonds to the melted chocolate and stir with a spatula or fork until completely coated. For a thicker chocolate shell, let them sit for a minute, then stir again to add another layer of chocolate. Using a fork or slotted spoon, lift out each almond, letting excess chocolate drip off. This prevents large clumps and ensures a smooth, even coating.
Arrange and garnish
Place the coated almonds on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart so they don’t stick together. If adding toppings like flaky sea salt, crushed nuts, or cocoa powder, sprinkle them on while the chocolate is still wet for the best adhesion.
Chill and enjoy
Chill the almonds in the fridge for 20–30 minutes until the chocolate hardens into a smooth, firm coating. Once firm, gently break apart any almonds that may have stuck together. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.
Pro oh là là tips
Take your chocolate covered almonds to the next level with these expert customizations and perfect pairings.
Customization and variations
- Caramel drizzle delight: drizzle melted caramel over the chocolate-coated almonds before they set for a sweet, buttery contrast. Let them cool completely for a smooth finish.
- Spiced indulgence: add a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne, or cardamom to the melted chocolate for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Sweet & salty contrast: sprinkle flaky sea salt or crushed pretzels over the almonds for a balanced, gourmet touch.
- Espresso infusion: stir in finely ground espresso powder to the melted chocolate for a deep, coffee-infused flavor.
- Dairy-free option: use high-quality dairy-free dark chocolate for a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing richness.
- Candy-coated upgrade: dust the almonds with cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or matcha after the chocolate sets for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Orange zest infusion: mix finely grated orange zest into the melted chocolate for a bright, citrusy twist that enhances the deep chocolate flavor.
Servings and pairings
- Café-style treat: pair with a creamy cappuccino or cold brew espresso for a satisfying balance of nutty, chocolatey, and bold coffee flavors.
- Elegant dessert board: serve alongside chocolate croissants or iced oatmeal cookies for a decadent, bakery-inspired spread.
- Holiday gifting: package in decorative jars with iced oatmeal cookies or mochi muffins for a homemade gourmet gift.
- Energy-packed snack: toss a handful into Greek yogurt with honey or oatmeal for a protein-rich, chocolatey crunch.
- Fruit & chocolate harmony: serve with fresh orange slices or dried cherries for a bright, tangy contrast to the rich chocolate coating.
- Refreshing afternoon pick-me-up: enjoy with a lemon balm drink for a light, refreshing contrast to the deep, nutty chocolate flavor.
- Cheese & nut platter: serve with aged gouda, brie, and fresh berries for a sophisticated sweet-and-savory appetizer.
Frequently asked questions
Are chocolate-covered almonds healthy?
Chocolate-covered almonds can be a nutritious snack in moderation. Almonds provide healthy fats, protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, while dark chocolate offers antioxidants. However, added sugars in chocolate can increase calorie intake, so choosing dark chocolate with minimal sugar makes them a healthier option.
Do chocolate-covered almonds have iron?
Yes, both almonds and chocolate contain iron. A serving of chocolate-covered almonds can provide about 5–10% of the daily iron requirement, depending on the type of chocolate used. Dark chocolate has a higher iron content compared to milk chocolate.
How many calories are in 1 chocolate-covered almond?
One chocolate-covered almond typically contains around 7–10 calories, depending on the type and thickness of chocolate used. Dark chocolate versions may have slightly fewer calories than those coated in milk chocolate due to lower sugar content.
How many chocolate almonds can I eat a day?
A reasonable portion is about 1 ounce (28–30 grams), which equals roughly 15–20 chocolate-covered almonds. This provides a balance of nutrients without excessive sugar or calories, making it a satisfying and mindful snack.
How long do chocolate-covered almonds last?
Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, chocolate-covered almonds can last up to 3 months at room temperature. Refrigerating them extends shelf life to about 6 months, while freezing can keep them fresh for up to a year.
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of homemade chocolate covered almonds. With their rich chocolate coating and satisfying crunch, they make the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you keep them classic or get creative with flavors and toppings, they’re an irresistible addition to any snack stash. Experiment with different chocolates and mix-ins to make them uniquely yours.
Do you love yours with dark, milk, or white chocolate? Drop your favorite flavor combinations in the comments below!
Happy snacking, and bon appétit!
Recipe card
Print
Chocolate covered almonds
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups raw almonds
- 6 oz dark chocolate (70% or higher), chopped
- 1 tsp coconut oil
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Optional toppings:
- ¼ tsp flaky sea salt
- 2 tbsp crushed nuts (pistachios, hazelnuts, or pecans)
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder or shredded coconut
Instructions
1️⃣ Toast the almonds
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Spread almonds on a parchment-lined baking sheet and toast for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let cool slightly.
2️⃣ Melt the chocolate
In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate, coconut oil, and cinnamon. Melt using a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract if using.
3️⃣ Coat the almonds
Add the almonds to the melted chocolate and stir until fully coated. Lift them out with a fork, letting excess chocolate drip off.
4️⃣ Arrange and garnish
Place coated almonds on a parchment-lined tray. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, crushed nuts, or cocoa powder while the chocolate is still wet.
5️⃣ Chill and enjoy
Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes until set. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Notes
Pro oh là là tip: for a warm, spiced depth of flavor, mix a pinch of cayenne with the cinnamon for a subtle heat that complements the chocolate!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes