Milk Chocolate Nut & Fruit Clusters

Milk Chocolate Nut & Fruit Clusters are decadent confections that combine creamy milk chocolate with a crunchy mix of nuts and chewy dried fruits. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding to dessert platters—rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Yet Elegant: Requires minimal ingredients and no special equipment
• Customizable: Use any combination of your favorite nuts and fruits
• Perfect for Gifting: Package in boxes or jars for a beautiful homemade gift
• Texture Heaven: Creamy, crunchy, and chewy in every bite
• Naturally Gluten-Free

Tip by Elsa: “Roast the nuts beforehand to amplify their flavor and create a deeper contrast with the creamy chocolate.”

Ingredients

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

• Milk chocolate, chopped or in chips
• Assorted nuts (e.g., almonds, cashews, pecans, walnuts)
• Dried fruits (e.g., cranberries, cherries, apricots, raisins)
• Sea salt flakes (optional, for garnish)
• Coconut flakes or crushed pretzels (optional, for variation)

Directions

1. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a tray with parchment paper.
2. Melt Chocolate: Gently melt milk chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently until smooth.
3. Mix Add-ins: Stir in the roasted nuts and chopped dried fruits until evenly coated.
4. Form Clusters: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared tray. Shape into clusters.
5. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle with sea salt flakes or toppings of your choice.
6. Chill: Refrigerate for 30–45 minutes until set. Store in an airtight container.

Tip by Elsa: “For glossy, professional-looking clusters, temper your chocolate before mixing in the nuts and fruit.”

Servings and Timing

Serves: 20–24 clusters
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Dark Chocolate Version: Use dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet treat
• Tropical Twist: Add dried pineapple, mango, and coconut
• Holiday Spice: Add cinnamon and nutmeg for seasonal flair
• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or puffed rice
• High-Protein: Mix in roasted chickpeas or high-protein granola chunks

Tip by Elsa: “Make smaller clusters for portion-controlled bites or mini dessert tray additions.”

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature (cool, dry place) for up to 10 days. Refrigerate if your kitchen is warm.
Freezing: Freeze in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Not applicable.

Tip by Elsa: “Store in a tin lined with wax paper to maintain texture and avoid melting.”

FAQs

Can I use chocolate chips?

Yes, but high-quality melting chocolate or bars give better flavor and texture.

Should I roast the nuts?

Yes, roasting brings out flavor and improves crunch.

What fruits pair best with milk chocolate?

Cranberries, cherries, and apricots provide tart contrast to the sweet chocolate.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate and certified vegan add-ins.

How can I temper the chocolate?

Use a thermometer and follow the seed method to melt and cool the chocolate to tempering temperature.

Can I use white chocolate?

Absolutely, but it’s sweeter and may benefit from saltier or more tart additions.

Are these good for kids?

Yes, just chop everything finely and avoid hard nuts for younger children.

Can I add spices?

Yes, cinnamon, cardamom, or a pinch of cayenne can enhance the flavor.

Do I need to grease the baking tray?

No, parchment or wax paper is enough to prevent sticking.

Can I shape these in molds?

Yes, silicone candy molds can give them a polished, uniform look.

Conclusion

Milk Chocolate Nut & Fruit Clusters are a deliciously simple treat with gourmet flair. Whether you’re satisfying a sweet tooth, building a party platter, or crafting edible gifts, these chewy, crunchy bites are always a hit—easy to love and easier to make.

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