Candied Chocolate Covered Almonds

Candied Chocolate Covered Almonds are a delightful treat that paired crunchiness with the rich taste of chocolate. This recipe is both delicious and versatile, making it a great choice for meal prep or a healthy snack alternative. With benefits like being high in protein and fiber, it fits well within various healthy lifestyles, including low-calorie and weight-loss diets. Let’s dive deeper into this sweet snack that can be enjoyed by everyone, including those who are diabetic-friendly and gluten-free!

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS Candied Chocolate Covered Almonds

Candied Chocolate Covered Almonds offer a perfect combination of sweetness and nutty flavors. They provide numerous health benefits, making them an excellent choice for those interested in healthier snacking options. Almonds are known for their high protein content, which supports muscle maintenance and aids in weight loss. Meanwhile, the light sugar coating gives you a sweet treat without going overboard on calories. These almonds are not only great for satisfying a sweet tooth but also serve as a nutritious snack you can enjoy any time of the day.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Equipment 1: Baking Sheet

A baking sheet is essential for roasting the almonds. It provides a flat surface to ensure even cooking.

Equipment 2: Saucepan

You will need a saucepan to prepare the sugar syrup, which is a key step in ensuring that the almonds get that crunchy, sweet coating.

Equipment 3: Heatproof Bowl (Double Boiler)

To melt the chocolate, a heatproof bowl placed over simmering water will allow for controlled melting, keeping your chocolate smooth and silky.

Equipment 4: Spatula

A spatula is necessary for stirring the almond mixture and ensuring that all the nuts get evenly coated in sugar and chocolate.

INGREDIENTS

Ingredient 1: Raw Almonds

You will need 1 1/3 cups (200 g) of raw almonds. Almonds are high in protein and healthy fats, making them an excellent base for this recipe. They also contain fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

Ingredient 2: Cane Sugar or Granulated White Sugar

Use 6 tablespoons (80 g) of sugar. This is what gives the almonds their sweet, crunchy coating. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness.

Ingredient 3: Water

2 tablespoons (30 ml) of water are required to help dissolve the sugar, creating the syrup that coats the almonds.

Ingredient 4: Salt

A pinch of 1/4 teaspoon salt enhances the flavor of the almonds and balances out the sweetness.

Ingredient 5: Sweet or Semi-Sweet Milk Chocolate Bars

You will need 2-4 bars (200-400 g) for coating the almonds. Chocolate adds richness and flavor while still keeping this a healthier option compared to many candies.

Ingredient 6: Cocoa Powder or Powdered Sugar

Lastly, you might want some cocoa powder or powdered sugar for dusting. This adds a lovely finish and can help prevent the chocolate from sticking.

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HOW TO MAKE Candied Chocolate Covered Almonds

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This temperature is vital for roasting the almonds perfectly, bringing out their natural flavors and enhancing their crunchiness.

Step 2: Roast the Almonds

Spread 1 1/3 cups of raw almonds on a baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t burn. Once done, let them cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Sugar Mixture

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, salt, and water. Bring this mixture to a boil, swirling the pan occasionally. Avoid stirring with a spoon to prevent the sugar from crystallizing. You want to heat the syrup until it reaches 120°C (about 250°F).

Step 4: Coat the Almonds

Add the roasted almonds to the melted sugar syrup. Stir gently with a spatula to ensure all almonds get coated with the sugary syrup. Reduce the heat to low, continuing to stir until the almonds are coated with a crunchy, sugary crust.

Step 5: Caramelize the Sugar Coating

Keep stirring until the sugar browns a little to create larger sugar crystals. Once you see the sugar start to crystallize, continue mixing over medium heat until you reach a half-caramelized state. Remove from heat and mix in 2 teaspoons of butter to maintain smoothness. Spread the almonds on a lined baking sheet to cool completely.

Step 6: Temper the Chocolate

Finely chop the two chocolate bars and divide them into two portions: 2/3 and 1/3. Melt the larger portion (2/3) in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, making sure not to let the bowl touch the water. Stir continuously until it reaches 115°F (46°C).

Step 7: Cool the Melted Chocolate

Once melted, remove the bowl from heat and add the remaining 1/3 of the chocolate. Stir until it cools down to 82°F (28°C). This step is crucial for getting a nice shine in your finished chocolate.

Step 8: Reheat and Finish

Gently reheat the tempered chocolate over the double boiler until it reaches between 88°F and 90°F (31–32°C). Your chocolate is now tempered and ready for coating the almonds.

Step 9: Coat with Chocolate

Dip each coated almond in the tempered chocolate. Use a spatula to help cover the almonds completely, making sure they’re well-coated. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to set.

TIPS AND TRICKS

• Healthy Version: To make these almonds healthier, consider using less sugar or a sugar substitute suitable for your dietary needs.
• Batch Cooking: This recipe is great for meal prep. You can roast a large batch of almonds and coat them according to your cravings throughout the week.
• Storage: Store your Candied Chocolate Covered Almonds in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
• Variations: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or cayenne pepper to your sugar coating for an extra kick in flavor. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, for unique tastes.

Candied Chocolate Covered Almonds FAQ

1. Are Candied Chocolate Covered Almonds healthy?
Yes, they are healthy! Almonds are high in protein and healthy fats, while the sugar coating can be adjusted for a lighter option. This treat is also gluten-free and can fit into many dietary preferences.

2. How should I store leftover almonds?
Store your Candied Chocolate Covered Almonds in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last up to two weeks, ensuring you can enjoy them for a while!

3. Can I use dark chocolate for a healthier alternative?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and can reduce sugar content in your delicious treat while still providing an indulgent chocolate flavor.

4. How can I make these diabetic-friendly?
You can use sugar substitutes like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of regular sugar to make them diabetic-friendly.

CONCLUSION

Candied Chocolate Covered Almonds are not only a delicious treat but also a nutritious snack option. With their high protein content and satisfying crunch, they are perfect for anyone focused on health, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a sweet treat that won’t derail your healthy eating. Made with simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare and can suit various dietary needs. Give them a try, and don’t hesitate to share your own variations or experiences with this delightful recipe!

Candied Chocolate Covered Almonds

A delightful treat that pairs the crunchiness of almonds with the rich taste of chocolate, perfect for healthy snacking or meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Almonds

• 1 1/3 cups Raw Almonds High in protein and healthy fats.
• 6 tablespoons Cane Sugar or Granulated White Sugar Adjust based on sweetness preference.
• 2 tablespoons Water Helps dissolve the sugar.
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• 2-4 bars Sweet or Semi-Sweet Milk Chocolate Bars For coating the almonds.
• 1-2 tablespoons Cocoa Powder or Powdered Sugar For dusting to prevent chocolate from sticking.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Spread 1 1/3 cups of raw almonds on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Let them cool.
3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, salt, and water. Bring to a boil, swirling occasionally but not stirring. Heat until the syrup reaches 120°C (250°F).

Coating

1. Add the roasted almonds to the melted sugar syrup. Stir gently until all almonds are coated.
2. Keep stirring until the sugar browns slightly. Remove from heat and mix in 2 teaspoons of butter.
3. Spread the almonds on a lined baking sheet and let them cool completely.
4. Finely chop the chocolate bars and melt the larger portion over simmering water until it reaches 115°F (46°C).
5. Remove from heat and add the remaining chocolate, stirring until it cools down to 82°F (28°C).
6. Gently reheat until it reaches between 88°F and 90°F (31–32°C) and then dip each almond in the tempered chocolate.
7. Place the chocolate-coated almonds on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set.

Notes

Store your almonds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. You can also try other spices or types of chocolate for different flavors.