Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup macadamia nuts, roughly chopped
- 1 cup pitted prunes, roughly chopped
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Spread the chopped macadamia nuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool.
3. In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate and coconut oil together until smooth.
4. Add the chopped prunes and toasted macadamia nuts to the melted chocolate mixture. Stir until everything is well coated.
5. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop clusters of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Let the clusters cool and harden at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
7. Once the clusters are firm, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 5-7 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 20 clusters
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 150
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Macadamia nuts can be substituted with any other nut of your choice.
- Prunes can be substituted with dried apricots or figs.
- Dark chocolate can be substituted with milk or white chocolate.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the clusters for a sweet and salty flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the melted chocolate mixture for a warm and spicy flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to chop the nuts and prunes into small pieces to ensure they stick together in the clusters.
- Use a cookie scoop to ensure even-sized clusters.
- Store the clusters in the refrigerator to keep them firm and prevent the chocolate from melting.
Storage instructions:
- Store the clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- These clusters are best served cold, but if you prefer them at room temperature, let them sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the clusters on a platter with a dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt or chopped nuts.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
- These clusters make a great addition to a cheese board or charcuterie platter.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chocolate mixture is too thick, add a teaspoon of coconut oil at a time until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- If the clusters are not sticking together, add a tablespoon of melted chocolate to the mixture and stir until well coated.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils used in the preparation of this recipe to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Food history:
- Chocolate-covered nuts and fruits have been enjoyed for centuries, with the first recorded recipe dating back to the 17th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, nutty, and chocolatey.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert or snack.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Chocolatey, Fruity