Milk Chocolate Nut & Fruit Clusters

Milk Chocolate Nut & Fruit Clusters are delightful bite-sized treats made by combining smooth, creamy milk chocolate with crunchy nuts and chewy dried fruits. These elegant and easy-to-make sweets are perfect for gift boxes, dessert trays, or a quick homemade indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These clusters are not only visually appealing but also offer a perfect combination of texture and flavor—sweet, creamy chocolate, crisp toasted nuts, and tart dried fruit. They require no baking, are quick to prepare, and can be customized endlessly with your favorite ingredients. Ideal for holiday treats, snacks, or party favors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Milk chocolate (chopped or chips)
• Assorted nuts (pecans, pistachios, almonds, or walnuts)
• Dried fruits (cranberries, cherries, or raisins)
• Sea salt (optional, for garnish)
• Coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)

Directions

1. Melt the milk chocolate in a heatproof bowl using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
2. Mix in a handful of chopped nuts and dried fruits, or reserve some for topping.
3. Spoon small mounds of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Top each cluster with a whole nut or a piece of dried fruit for decoration.
5. Optionally sprinkle with a tiny pinch of sea salt.
6. Let clusters set at room temperature, or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes until firm.
7. Store in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 12 clusters
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use dark or white chocolate instead of milk chocolate.
• Add shredded coconut, chia seeds, or puffed rice for added texture.
• Flavor with a drop of vanilla, almond, or orange extract.
• Make festive versions by using seasonal dried fruits or candy toppings.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: Not applicable. If they melt, refrigerate until set again.

FAQs

Can I use chocolate chips?

Yes, but high-quality chocolate bars will provide a smoother, more luxurious finish.

Do I need to temper the chocolate?

Tempering is optional. For a glossy finish and snap, tempering is recommended, but not necessary for home snacking.

Can I use salted nuts?

Yes, just adjust or omit any added sea salt on top.

What kind of dried fruit works best?

Dried cranberries, cherries, apricots, or raisins all work well. Chop larger fruits into small pieces.

Can I freeze these?

Yes, freeze in layers separated by parchment in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature.

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?

Avoid getting any water into the melted chocolate, and melt slowly over gentle heat.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chocolate and mix-ins are certified gluten-free.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Absolutely! This is a great no-bake project for kids with adult supervision during the melting process.

Can I make these in silicone molds?

Yes, you can pour the mixture into mini muffin molds or silicone trays for uniform shapes.

Are these suitable for gifting?

Definitely. Wrap them in cellophane bags or place in gift boxes for an elegant homemade gift.

Conclusion

Milk Chocolate Nut & Fruit Clusters are a deliciously simple, no-bake confection that looks as elegant as it tastes. Perfect for snacking, entertaining, or gifting, these treats combine classic flavors in a way that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.

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