Description

These irresistibly crunchy almond pecan clusters are a perfect blend of toasted nuts, coconut flakes, and a touch of natural sweetness. Enhanced with chia seeds and dried fruits, they’re a wholesome snack that combines texture and flavor in every bite. Ideal for a quick, healthy treat or an on-the-go energy boost, these clusters are deliciously satisfying and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale

Nuts and Seeds

2 cups Almonds (roasted for enhanced flavor)
1 cup Pecans (can substitute with walnuts)
1/4 cup Chia Seeds (or use flax seeds)

Dry Ingredients

1 cup Coconut Flakes (use unsweetened)
1/2 cup Dried Fruits (like cranberries or raisins)
1/2 cup Chocolate Chips (sugar-free for a sweet twist)
1/4 teaspoon Salt (a pinch enhances flavor)

Wet Ingredients

1/2 cup Maple Syrup (agave nectar is a vegan substitute)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (or almond extract for a nutty flavor)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for toasting the clusters evenly and achieving that perfect crunch.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted almonds, pecans, coconut flakes, chia seeds, and salt. Stir gently to distribute the salt evenly among the nuts and flakes.
Prepare Wet Mixture: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and vanilla extract until well blended. This mixture will bind the dry ingredients and add sweetness.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly with a spatula or wooden spoon until all the nuts, seeds, and flakes are evenly coated with the syrup mixture.
Form Clusters: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the baking sheet, shaping them into small clusters.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the clusters to ensure they become golden and crunchy but do not burn.
Cool and Add Fruits & Chocolate: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the clusters cool completely on the parchment paper. Once cooled, sprinkle the dried fruits and chocolate chips over the clusters, pressing lightly so they stick.
Store: Once the clusters are fully cooled and set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be refrigerated for longer freshness.

Notes

For a vegan option, substitute maple syrup with agave nectar and use vegan-friendly chocolate chips.
Roasting the almonds beforehand enhances their flavor and crunchiness.
You can substitute pecans with walnuts for a different taste profile.
Use unsweetened coconut flakes to avoid extra sugar content in the clusters.
Store clusters in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.