Valentines Treats Chocolate Almond Crunch

Name: Valentines Treats Chocolate Almond Crunch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups dark chocolate chips; 1 cup chopped almonds (toasted); 1/2 cup rice cereal; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Home Baking Favorites

I absolutely love creating sweet treats for Valentine's Day, and this Chocolate Almond Crunch is one of my favorites! The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds makes it a delightful indulgence. I found that pairing the two not only enhances the flavor but also creates an interesting texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can impress your loved ones with a homemade delight that's perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:37:35.507Z

Every Valentine's Day, I look for creative ways to express my love through delicious treats. This Chocolate Almond Crunch recipe was born when I was experimenting with different flavor combinations. The sweet, creamy chocolate melds beautifully with the delightful crunch of almonds, creating a treat that's hard to resist. I’m always amazed at how such simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special!

While making this recipe, I discovered that toasting the almonds just before adding them to the chocolate makes a noticeable difference. It enhances the nutty flavor and adds an extra layer of crunch that truly elevates the final product. Plus, it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that gets everyone excited!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicious chocolate flavor complemented by crunchy almonds
Easily customizable with your favorite nuts or toppings
Perfect for sharing with loved ones on special occasions

      

Unlocking the Perfect Melt

Melting chocolate is an essential skill for this recipe, and achieving the right consistency is key to your Chocolate Almond Crunch's success. When melting dark chocolate chips, use precise intervals in the microwave—30 seconds is optimal. Stirring in between not only helps prevent scorching but also enables you to monitor the chocolate as it begins to melt, ensuring a smooth, glossy consistency that’s crucial for coating the other ingredients evenly.

If you encounter a situation where your chocolate becomes thick or seizes, don’t worry! Adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil can help smooth it out and make it easier to work with. Just incorporate it into the chocolate once it's melted for the best results. Remember, the goal is a silky mixture that will coat your almonds and cereal perfectly without clumping.

Customizing Your Crunch

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to personalize it according to your taste preferences. While the original version features toasted almonds and dried cranberries, feel free to experiment with different nuts like pecans or walnuts. You might also swap the dried cranberries for dried cherries or even some mini marshmallows for a playful twist, adding sweetness and a chewy texture to contrast with the crunchiness of the nuts and cereal.

For those who prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon to the melted chocolate for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness nicely. Just be cautious not to overpower the other flavors; a little goes a long way. This flexibility makes your Chocolate Almond Crunch not just a treat but also a creative outlet in the kitchen.

Storing Your Treats

Once your Chocolate Almond Crunch is set and ready to enjoy, proper storage can extend its deliciousness. Keep the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a warmer climate, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator to prevent any melting or texture changes, as chocolate can be sensitive to heat due to its fine structure.

If you want to make these treats ahead of time, they freeze beautifully! Just place the clusters in a single layer on a baking sheet until they harden, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Chocolate Almond Crunch Ingredients

2 cups dark chocolate chips
1 cup chopped almonds (toasted)
1/2 cup rice cereal
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the toasted almonds, rice cereal, and dried cranberries until everything is well-coated.

Form the Treats

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the paper, creating clusters.

Add Sea Salt

Sprinkle sea salt lightly over each cluster for an added touch of flavor.

Let Set

Refrigerate the clusters for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate is set completely. Once hardened, enjoy your delicious treats!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding a hint of cinnamon or chili powder to the chocolate mixture for a spicy kick!

Flavor Pairing Tips

Pairing this Chocolate Almond Crunch with a drink can enhance the overall experience. A rich coffee or espresso complements the deep chocolate flavor beautifully, while a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, can bring out the earthy tones of the almonds. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a spiced hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Another way to showcase this treat is by serving it alongside a fresh fruit platter. The tartness of fresh strawberries or a citrus fruit salad will balance the sweetness of the chocolate and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich textures of the crunch, allowing your guests to experience different flavor profiles.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Chocolate Almond Crunch clusters don’t hold together well, they may need more melting chocolate or might have been left to set too quickly. Ensure the chocolate coats all the dry ingredients thoroughly before forming the clusters. If you find they are too crumbly, try remelting the mixture slightly and adding more warm chocolate to help it bind together better.

In the event that the chocolate has bloomed (showing a white powdery appearance), rest assured it’s still safe to eat. This usually occurs from temperature changes. However, if you want to avoid it, ensure you store the clusters in a consistent environment and avoid moisture exposure during melting and setting processes.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe easily scales up or down depending on your needs. If you're planning a larger event, doubling the ingredients works seamlessly—just make sure to use a bigger mixing bowl and baking sheets to accommodate the increased volume. Keep in mind that you may need to set the clusters in batches in the refrigerator to ensure even cooling and setting.

If you want a smaller batch, feel free to halve the ingredients. For accurate measurements, use a kitchen scale for the chocolate and nuts. This ensures you still get the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it just as delightful in smaller quantities.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

→ How do I store the Chocolate Almond Crunch?

Store in an airtight container in a cool place for up to a week.

→ Can I make these treats gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free rice cereal or substitute with your favorite gluten-free grain.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add shredded coconut, chopped dried fruits, or even seeds for extra texture and flavor.