Description
Delight in the perfect combination of rich dark chocolate, toasted almonds, fresh orange zest, and a hint of flakey sea salt with these Orange and Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds. This elegant treat offers a balance of bitterness, citrus brightness, and a touch of savory saltiness, ideal for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
Almond Mixture
- 5 ounces slivered almonds
- 1 large orange, finely grated zest (use 2 oranges for more intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon flakey sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling (optional)
Chocolate Coating
- 3 ounces dark chocolate
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to create a non-stick surface for the chocolate clusters.
- Toast almonds and mix with zest: Place the slivered almonds in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toast them, stirring frequently, until they begin to brown and release a nutty aroma. Remove from heat, immediately mix in the orange zest and flakey sea salt, then set aside to cool to room temperature.
- Melt the chocolate using a bain-marie: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil, then reduce to a slight simmer. Break dark chocolate into pieces and place them in a metal bowl. Set the bowl on top of the simmering pot ensuring the water does not touch the bowl and there is no steam leakage inside. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Combine almonds and chocolate: Once the almond mixture has cooled, quickly stir it into the melted chocolate until all almonds are evenly coated with chocolate.
- Form chocolate clusters: Using two teaspoons, scoop out the chocolate almond mixture and drop small piles onto the prepared cookie sheet. Optionally, sprinkle extra flakey sea salt over the clusters for added texture and flavor.
- Cool and harden: Allow the chocolate-covered almond clusters to cool completely at room temperature until the chocolate hardens. Once set, peel them off the parchment paper and package or serve.
Notes
- For a stronger orange flavor, use the zest of two oranges instead of one.
- Ensure the almonds are completely cool before mixing with chocolate to prevent it from seizing or melting improperly.
- If desired, sprinkle extra sea salt on top of clusters before chocolate hardens to enhance the salty-sweet contrast.
- Store the finished clusters in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for best flavor and texture.
