Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Almonds

Craving a snack that feels both decadent and smart Dark chocolate sea salt almonds fit the bill They deliver that satisfying crunch and sweet bittersweet hit while being easy to make at home My love for these came about when I needed a lastminute treat for a gettogether and discovered how much better they taste compared to storebought twists

When I first made these my best friend ate half the batch before dinner and now they are a regular whenever she visits

Ingredients

• Bittersweet or semisweet chocolate: Deepens flavor and gives an antioxidant kick Choose high quality for a glossy finish and rich snap
• Whole almonds: Bring crunch and heartiness Toasting them first brings out their nutty depth Opt for raw and unsalted for best control
• Coarse sea salt or flaky sea salt: Cuts through the sweetness and amps up the chocolate flavor Choose larger crystals for satisfying pops
• Turbinado sugar or any coarse raw sugar: Adds sparkle and a matching earthy sweetness Look for golden unrefined crystals for the tastiest result

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Tray:

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat This keeps the almonds from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze

Melt the Chocolate:

Break your chocolate into pieces and place in a heatproof bowl Use a double boiler for gentle melting or microwave in 30second bursts stirring after each burst until smooth and glossy Be patient low slow melting delivers the best dip

Coat the Almonds:

Toss the almonds into the melted chocolate Stir well to cover every almond evenly Use a fork or dipping tool to lift out a few at a time letting extra chocolate drip back into the bowl This step ensures each almond gets a glossy coat but wont glue into clusters

Arrange and Sprinkle:

Carefully place each chocolatecoated almond onto your prepared sheet Practice patience here then sprinkle with sea salt and turbinado sugar for a touch of crunch and glistening finish

Set the Chocolate:

Let the almonds rest until the chocolate hardens You can speed this up by placing the tray in the fridge Watch for a firm shiny coating as your sign they are ready for snacking

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My favorite part is the salty sparkle of sea salt against silky chocolate My son always tries to sneak an extra handful whenever I make these and they have totally become our rainy day project together

Storage Tips

Store your finished almonds in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to two weeks If your kitchen is warm keep them in the fridge but let them sit out a few minutes before snacking for the best texture Avoid humidity which can make chocolate bloom or turn streaky

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap semisweet chocolate or blends with milk chocolate if you prefer creamier flavor Try pecans pistachios or cashews for a twist and sprinkle with cinnamon or espresso powder for a gourmet vibe Coconut sugar works as a sub for turbinado but delivers a different depth

Serving Suggestions

These chocolate almonds work brilliantly atop oatmeal as a coffee break treat or sprinkled over plain Greek yogurt They also make thoughtful gifts in cellophane bags tied with a ribbon Just warn friends they vanish quickly

Cultural and Historical Context

Chocolatecovered nuts have roots in both European and Middle Eastern confectionery traditions Once reserved for celebrations they are now a beloved snack for any occasion If you are a fan of sweet and savory combos think of this as a modern take on traditional holiday treats

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These chocolate almonds are so simple yet feel gourmet—a satisfying homemade snack or gift that makes you proud with every bite

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I get chocolate to coat almonds evenly?

Stir almonds thoroughly in melted chocolate, ensuring each nut is fully covered before placing individually on parchment.

→ What kind of chocolate works best for this?

Bittersweet or semi-sweet high quality chocolate melts smoothly and pairs well with the nutty, salty flavors.

→ Can I use roasted or salted almonds instead of raw?

Raw almonds are ideal, but pre-roasted or salted kinds can be used for extra crunch or flavor. Adjust salt topping as needed.

→ What is the best way to set the chocolate quickly?

Cool the dipped almonds in the refrigerator to help the chocolate firm up faster and reduce smudging.

→ Is it necessary to temper the chocolate?

Tempering gives a glossy finish and prevents blooming but is optional if storing almonds in the refrigerator.