If you have a soft spot for the perfect combination of zesty, salty, and rich flavors all wrapped up in a crunchy bite, then you’re going to absolutely fall for this Orange and Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds Recipe. These treats are not only incredibly easy to make but also a fantastic fusion of toasted almonds, bright orange zest, luscious dark chocolate, and just the right hint of flaky sea salt. They deliver a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more, whether as a snack, a thoughtful gift, or a sophisticated party nibble.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe proves that sometimes less is more. Each element plays a vital role in developing that irresistible flavor profile and providing texture — from the fragrant orange zest to the crunchy almonds and the silky dark chocolate.
- 5 ounces slivered almonds: Toasted to bring out their nutty aroma and add a satisfying crunch to the final bite.
- 1 large orange (finely grated zest only): The zest infuses bright citrus notes and a fragrant punch that complements the chocolate beautifully; use two oranges if you like your treats extra zesty.
- 1 teaspoon flakey sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling if desired): Sea salt works wonders here, enhancing the chocolate’s richness and balancing the sweetness with a touch of savory.
- 3 ounces dark chocolate: Choose a good quality dark chocolate for a deep, smooth flavor and a luscious coating that brings everything together.
How to Make Orange and Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Begin by lining a cookie sheet with parchment paper. This small step is crucial because it ensures your chocolate-covered almonds won’t stick as they cool and harden, making cleanup a breeze and presentation flawless.
Step 2: Toast and Flavor the Almonds
Toast the almonds in a large skillet over medium-high heat until they start turning golden brown. Toasting amplifies their natural flavor and crunch. Quickly mix in the orange zest and sea salt while the almonds are still warm so the zest oils and salt really meld into the nuts. Then, set them aside to cool completely to room temperature before moving on.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate Using a Bain-Marie
Bring a medium pot of water to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Break your dark chocolate into pieces and place it in a heatproof metal bowl. Rest the bowl over the pot, making sure the steam gently melts the chocolate without any water touching it. This gentle melting method, called a bain-marie, keeps the chocolate glossy and smooth without burning or seizing.
Step 4: Combine and Shape Your Almond Clusters
Once the chocolate is fully melted, stir in your cooled almond, orange zest, and salt mixture quickly so every nut gets a beautiful chocolate coat. Using two teaspoons, scoop small piles of this mixture onto your parchment-lined sheet. These clusters should be bite-sized and rustic-looking—each one a little piece of chocolatey, citrusy heaven. Let them cool completely until the chocolate is firm.
How to Serve Orange and Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra wow factor, lightly sprinkle additional flakey sea salt on top of the clusters right after you drop them on the parchment sheet, before the chocolate firms up. This touch will elevate the salty-sweet balance and add a pretty sparkle that makes each piece look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
These almonds make a fabulous snack on their own but also pair beautifully with a creamy cheese platter, fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples, or alongside a glass of robust red wine or sparkling citrus cocktail for a sophisticated treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Try packaging these clusters in small decorative boxes or glass jars tied with ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts. Alternatively, serve them in small bowls during holiday gatherings or place individual clusters in mini cupcake liners for an elegant party presentation that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your Orange and Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature, away from heat or sunlight, for up to two weeks. This keeps the chocolate from melting and preserves the crunch of the almonds perfectly.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these treats a little later, freeze the clusters in a sealed container or zip-top bag with parchment paper layers to prevent sticking. They maintain excellent texture and flavor for up to three months and thaw quickly when brought to room temperature.
Reheating
Since these are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary and can cause the chocolate to lose its shine or texture. Instead, allow frozen clusters to thaw naturally on the counter for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use whole almonds instead of slivered almonds?
Absolutely! Whole almonds work just fine and will provide a bit more crunch. If you prefer, you can roughly chop them to make the clusters easier to bite.
What type of dark chocolate should I use?
Look for a dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content for a rich flavor that pairs well with the orange zest and sea salt. High-quality chocolate gives the best texture and taste.
Can I substitute the orange zest with another citrus?
Yes, lemon or grapefruit zest would offer a different but delightful citrus twist. Just be sure to finely grate the zest to avoid any bitterness from the pith.
Is it necessary to toast the almonds first?
Toasting is highly recommended because it enhances the nutty flavor and crunchiness, making a huge difference in the overall taste of this recipe.
How can I make these vegan or dairy-free?
Choose dairy-free dark chocolate varieties, often labeled vegan, to keep the recipe fully plant-based while maintaining the decadent flavor everyone loves.
Final Thoughts
This Orange and Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds Recipe is such a wonderful treat to make at home. It’s simple, satisfying, and so full of flavor that you’ll want to whip up batch after batch. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging yourself, these almonds bring a cozy, bright, and luxurious touch to any snack time. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience that perfect harmony of orange zest, sea salt, crunch, and rich chocolate!
Print
Orange and Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 32 servings
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
These Orange and Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds combine toasted almonds with a vibrant orange zest and a touch of flakey sea salt, all enveloped in smooth dark chocolate. This treat offers a perfect balance of nutty crunch, citrus brightness, and a hint of savory saltiness, ideal for a sophisticated snack or elegant gift.
Ingredients
Almond Mixture
- 5 ounces slivered almonds
- Zest of 1 large orange (finely grated; use 2 oranges for a more intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon flakey sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling (optional)
Chocolate Coating
- 3 ounces dark chocolate, broken into pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to keep the coated almonds from sticking.
- Toast the almonds and mix: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the slivered almonds. Toast them until they just start to brown and release their aroma. Remove from heat, and immediately mix in the finely grated orange zest and 1 teaspoon of flakey sea salt. Allow the mixture 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 gentle simmer. Place the broken chocolate pieces into a metal bowl that fits snugly on top of the pot without touching the water. Stir the chocolate gently until fully melted and smooth. This gentle melting technique prevents overheating the chocolate.
- Combine and form clusters: Quickly stir the cooled almond, zest, and salt mixture into the melted chocolate until all pieces are evenly coated. Using two teaspoons, scoop small piles of the mixture and drop them onto the prepared parchment-lined cookie sheet, forming clusters.
- Set the chocolate: Allow the chocolate-covered almond clusters to cool and harden completely at room temperature before peeling them off the parchment paper and packaging for storage or gifting.
Notes
- If you prefer a stronger orange flavor, use the zest of two oranges as suggested.
- Flakey sea salt enhances the flavor and adds texture, but you can omit extra sprinkling if desired.
- Ensure the water in the bain-marie does not touch the bottom of the metal bowl to avoid overheating the chocolate.
- Store finished clusters in an airtight container at room temperature to avoid condensation which can dull the chocolate shine.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of dark chocolate to adjust sweetness and intensity.
