Valentines Treats Chocolate Almond Crunch

Name: Valentines Treats Chocolate Almond Crunch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 20 pieces
Ingredients: 2 cups almonds, roasted; 200g semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 100g dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 teaspoon sea salt; Optional: sprinkles for decoration

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Collection

I absolutely love making these Valentines Treats Chocolate Almond Crunch, especially around Valentine’s Day. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds creates a delightful treat that melts in your mouth. Preparing these bites is not only fun but also allows me to add a personal touch to each piece. Whether I’m packaging them for friends or enjoying them myself, they always bring joy and sweetness to the occasion. Trust me; once you make them, you’ll want to keep this recipe close to your heart!

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:33:34.933Z

When crafting these treats, I discovered that roasting the almonds beforehand brings out their natural flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the chocolate crunch. I experimented with different types of chocolate, and I found that a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate creates the perfect balance between sweetness and richness. This combination allows each bite to be both satisfying and indulgent.

Another tip I learned is to ensure the chocolate is tempered properly. This step not only helps in achieving the shiny finish but also ensures the chocolate remains firm at room temperature. It really elevates the treat, making it perfect for gifting or a special occasion!

        Why You'll Love These Treats
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy roasted almonds
Unique texture that adds a delightful crunch
Perfectly sweet without being overpowering

      

The Perfect Chocolate Melting Technique

Melting chocolate requires a gentle hand, especially for those who desire a smooth finish without graininess. I recommend a microwave-safe bowl for convenience. Begin microwaving the chocolate in 30-second bursts; check and stir after each interval. This prevents overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize. Aim for a glossy mixture that flows easily, indicating it’s ready for use. If it feels too thick, adding a teaspoon of coconut oil can help adjust the consistency without altering the flavor.

If you prefer using a double boiler, simmer a small amount of water in a saucepan and place the bowl with chocolate on top, ensuring it doesn't touch the water. This gentle heat will uniformly melt the chocolate while reducing the risk of burning. Keep an eye on it, stirring frequently, until it's completely smooth. Understanding these techniques is critical for achieving that seductive, silky texture that envelops the almonds so beautifully.

Choosing and Preparing Your Almonds

For this recipe, I strongly advise using roasted almonds as they introduce a rich, nutty flavor and enhance the overall texture profile. If you have raw almonds, you can roast them easily in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the almonds on a baking sheet. Roast for about 10-12 minutes, tossing halfway through, until they are golden. Keep an eye on them, as they can go from perfectly roasted to burnt quickly.

Feel free to experiment with different nut varieties. Cashews or hazelnuts can provide an exciting twist to this recipe. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, pumpkin seeds can be a fun alternative, offering a similar crunch while accommodating allergies. No matter your choice, remember that the nuts should be completely cooled before mixing with the chocolate to ensure the mixture doesn’t seize up when combined.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After your treats have cooled and the chocolate has set, storage is straightforward. Place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their freshness, they can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. Just be cautious of condensation forming when bringing them back to room temperature; this can affect the chocolate coating.

When presenting these special treats, consider placing them in decorative boxes or bags tied with a pretty ribbon—perfect for gifting! For a delightful twist, serve them alongside fresh strawberries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pairing enhances the experience, allowing the sweetness of the chocolate and richness of the almonds to shine even more.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious treats:

Ingredients

2 cups almonds, roasted
200g semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
100g dark chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
Optional: sprinkles for decoration

Make sure to arrange the ingredients neatly before starting.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your chocolate almond crunch:

Prepare the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet and dark chocolate with coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

Mix in Almonds

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the roasted almonds until they are evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.

Form the Treats

Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the chocolate-coated almonds onto a lined baking sheet. Ensure they're spaced out for easy separation.

Add Salt & Set

Sprinkle sea salt over each mound for an added flavor boost. Allow the treats to cool at room temperature until the chocolate hardens.

Optional Decoration

For an extra special touch, sprinkle colorful decorations on top before the chocolate sets completely.

Enjoy your treats once they've set, or package them beautifully for gifting!

Pro Tips

Always use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Consider experimenting with different nuts or flavors to make these treats truly your own.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate doesn’t melt smoothly, it might have overheated. The key is to be patient and keep a close eye on it. Next time, ensure you’re using shorter intervals or opt for the double boiler method as a failsafe. If your chocolate seizes while mixing, try adding a bit more coconut oil or even a splash of warm milk to salvage the texture.

Another issue could arise if they stick to the baking sheet. Ensure you’re using parchment paper or a silicone mat, which will help in easy removal. If you don’t have either, a light coating of cooking spray can help prevent sticking.

Variations to Try

Once you master the basic Chocolate Almond Crunch, consider diversifying flavors. You can infuse your melted chocolate with a splash of almond extract or vanilla for a heightened flavor profile. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate can also introduce a surprising kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.

For a healthier take, consider drizzling your finished treats with dark chocolate instead of fully coating them. This allows for the almond flavor to shine through while still indulging your sweet tooth without overwhelming sweetness.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This recipe can easily be scaled to fit your needs. Whether you're making treats for a small gathering or a larger party, simply maintain the same ratios of ingredients. If you want to make a smaller batch, you might find that a half recipe works perfectly; just remember to adjust your baking sheet size accordingly and reduce the chilling time slightly to allow for quicker setting.

If you're preparing for a larger event, consider using additional baking sheets to spread out the treats, keeping in mind that more mounds will require an extension of the cooling period. Plan your timing to coincide with any events or outings, ensuring they are freshly made and set before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that it will make the treats sweeter.

→ How should I store these treats?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I make these treats ahead of time?

Absolutely! They can be made a few days in advance, just ensure they are properly stored.

→ What can I substitute for the almonds?

You can use any nuts you prefer, such as walnuts or pecans, or even seeds for a nut-free version.