Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Almond Clusters

Nuts. Chocolate. Sea Salt. Enough said, right? I want them all.

I'm usually an "eat lots of dessert because life is short" kinda girl. But, I have been participating in a family fitness challenge so I have been cutting back in the dessert department. This is a short term thing, I can assure you! ;)

But, in the mean time I have found that these dark chocolate nut clusters are perfectly satisfying and a much healthier option than other treats. Plus the added sea salt just makes these even tastier.

I like to keep these in an airtight container in my freezer and when I have a strong urge for something sweet I can just munch on one of these clusters. They are seriously so delicious and SO EASY. Which is a must when you are a busy human.

Side note: Next time I will make them a bit smaller. I like my clusters a bit more bite-sized.

Recipe:

2 cups raw almonds
10 oz. dark chocolate
Sea salt

Preheat oven to 300ºF.

Place almonds on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 15-20 minutes.

Place chocolate in a metal bowl over a bain marie. * Stir the chocolate until it is completely melted. Remove bowl from bain marie and add the toasted almonds. Stir until all almonds are coated.

Using a spoon or portion scoop, scoop the almonds in clusters on a silpat or parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle a bit of sea salt on the tops and pop the tray into the refrigerator for 10 or 15 minutes until they are cooled solid. Remove the clusters and place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator or freezer.


*Bain marie is another name for a double boiler. You place the metal bowl over a pot that has about an inch of simmering water. The metal bowl should be nestled in the pot but should NOT be touching the water at all. The steam between the simmering water and the metal bowl is the goal!

Coconut Oil Granola

I am a simple granola kinda girl. Of course I love nuts and craisins and all the goodies that are usually included in granola. However, when I want a bowl of greek yogurt and berries with crunchy granola... I prefer the granola to be simple and not overly sweet. If you find yourself agreeing with me then this granola is for you! It is made with a few simple ingredients and comes together really quickly and easily.

Recipe:

3 cups old fashioned oats
3/4 cup coconut oil, melted
2 T. honey
2 T. pure maple syrup
Mix-ins of your choice (nuts, toasted coconut, cinnamon, craisins, etc.)

Preheat the oven to 250ºF.

Place the oats and any mix-ins in a large mixing bowl. *If you are using raisins or any other dried fruit, wait to add until the baking process is almost completed.

In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut oil, honey and maple syrup. Pour over the oats and stir to combine. Spread the mixture on a non-stick baking sheet.

Bake for 1 hour (stirring the granola every 20 minutes). Remove pan from oven. Do not stir. Allow granola to cool. Then break into chunks and store in an air-tight container or ziploc.