Craving a delicious, guilt-free treat? These Cocoa Dusted Roasted Almonds are your perfect go-to. This recipe transforms simple nuts into a delightful, Healthy Chocolate Snack you’ll love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Almonds: Use raw, unsalted whole almonds.
- Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is best. You can use Dutch-processed for a darker color.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup works well. Agave nectar or honey (if you don’t mind a different flavor) are also good alternatives.
- Salt: Essential for balancing sweetness.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 cups raw whole almonds
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon water
Spices & Dusting:
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 270-280 calories
- Tools Needed: Baking sheet, parchment paper, large mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Coat the Almonds
In a large bowl, combine the almonds, maple syrup, and water. Stir well until all the almonds are evenly coated.
3. Roast for Crispness
Spread the coated almonds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are lightly golden and fragrant. This step makes them crunchy.
4. Dust with Cocoa
Remove the almonds from the oven. In the same large bowl (or a clean one), combine the cocoa powder, sea salt, and optional cinnamon. Add the warm roasted almonds and toss well until they are thoroughly coated with the cocoa mixture.
5. Cool and Enjoy
Spread the dusted almonds back onto the baking sheet to cool completely. As they cool, the coating will set. Once cooled, these Healthy Chocolate Snacks are ready to be enjoyed!
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cocoa mixture for a sweet and spicy treat.
- Vanilla Boost: Stir 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the maple syrup mixture before coating.
- Coffee Infusion: Add 1/2 teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the cocoa powder for a mocha flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Cocoa Dusted Roasted Almonds in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks, making them a perfect make-ahead Healthy Chocolate Snack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you use pre-roasted almonds? While you can, roasting raw almonds yourself gives them a fresher, crispier texture and helps the coating stick better.
- Why are my almonds not crispy? Ensure your oven temperature is accurate and you’re roasting them long enough. A slightly lower temperature for a longer time can help.
- Can you reduce the sugar content? Yes, you can slightly reduce the maple syrup, but it helps the cocoa stick.
- Is this a good Healthy Chocolate Snack for kids? Absolutely! The natural ingredients and balanced sweetness make them a great option.
- What if the cocoa doesn’t stick well? Make sure your almonds are still warm when you toss them with the cocoa mixture. The warmth helps the coating adhere.
- Can you use another type of nut? Yes, pecans or walnuts can also be used, but adjust roasting time as needed since they are softer.