Chocolate and Cashew Clusters
Chocolate and cashews are a match made in heaven. The rich, creamy chocolate combined with the crunchy, buttery cashews creates a delightful treat that is hard to resist. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy dessert or a homemade gift for a loved one, these chocolate and cashew clusters are the perfect choice. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious and indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup of milk chocolate chips
- 1 cup of roasted cashews
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and milk chocolate chips together. You can do this by microwaving them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract to the melted chocolate and stir until well combined.
- Gently fold in the roasted cashews, making sure they are fully coated in the chocolate.
- Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the chocolate and cashew mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each cluster.
- If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cluster for an extra burst of flavor.
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened.
- Once the clusters are firm, remove them from the refrigerator and transfer them to an airtight container or package them in a decorative box for gifting.
Tips:
- Feel free to customize your clusters by adding other ingredients such as dried fruit, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Make sure to use roasted cashews for this recipe, as they add an extra depth of flavor. If you only have raw cashews, you can roast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
- If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can use all milk chocolate chips instead of a combination of dark and milk chocolate.
- Store the clusters in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
These chocolate and cashew clusters are a simple yet decadent treat that will satisfy any chocolate lover. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack or give them as a gift, they are sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in these irresistible clusters!