Snacking can be both delicious and healthy, especially when you whip up these Easy Roasted Almond & Cranberry Snack Clusters. This simple yet satisfying recipe combines the nutty crunch of almonds with the sweet tartness of dried cranberries, all brought together with honey or maple syrup. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or an on-the-go treat, these clusters are not only easy to make but also versatile—ideal for various occasions throughout the year.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 12 servings
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
Why Make This Easy Roasted Almond & Cranberry Snack Clusters
These Easy Roasted Almond & Cranberry Snack Clusters are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. Loaded with wholesome ingredients, they provide a boost of energy and nutrients, making them a great snack for both adults and kids. Whether shared at a family gathering or enjoyed during a Netflix binge, these clusters are packed with flavor and texture, offering a delightful mix of chewy and crunchy.
How to Make Easy Roasted Almond & Cranberry Snack Clusters
Making these snack clusters is incredibly straightforward, involving just a few steps to create something truly scrumptious. Follow these simple directions to prepare your tasty snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almonds
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your clusters bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the almonds, dried cranberries, honey or maple syrup, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed. If you want to add a bit more texture and fiber, this is the time to include rolled oats and chocolate chips.
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Step 3: Cooking
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the mixture evenly across the sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning, until the clusters are golden brown and fragrant.
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Step 4: Finishing
Once baked, let the clusters cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows them to firm up and makes them easier to break into bite-sized pieces. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
How to Serve Easy Roasted Almond & Cranberry Snack Clusters
These clusters are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a nutritious snack at a party or enjoy them as an energizing breakfast topping over yogurt. They also make for a delightful addition to trail mix or a thoughtful homemade gift when packaged in a jar decorated with a ribbon.
How to Store Easy Roasted Almond & Cranberry Snack Clusters
To keep your snack clusters fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider keeping them in the refrigerator, where they will remain good for about two weeks. If you want to keep them even longer, you can freeze them for up to three months!
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Roasted Almond & Cranberry Snack Clusters
- For crunchier clusters, make sure to spread the mixture evenly and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup.
- Feel free to substitute different nuts or dried fruits based on what you have on hand.
- Keep an eye on the clusters as they bake; the nuts can burn quickly if left unattended.
Delicious Variations
- Cocoa Delight: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
- Spiced Clusters: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Seed Boost: Throw in some pumpkin or sunflower seeds to increase the nutritional value.
- Yogurt Parfait Layers: Use these clusters layered with yogurt and fresh fruit for a delightful breakfast option.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes! Cashews, walnuts, or pecans can be substituted based on your taste preferences. -
What if I don’t have honey or maple syrup?
You can use agave syrup or brown rice syrup as alternative sweeteners. -
How can I adjust the cluster size?
The size of the clusters depends on how you compress the mixture before baking; larger mounds will yield bigger clusters. -
Are these clusters suitable for vegans?
Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey, they are fully vegan-friendly! -
Can I add fresh fruit to the recipe?
Fresh fruit is not recommended as it has high water content, which may affect the texture. Stick to dried fruits instead.
Conclusion
These Easy Roasted Almond & Cranberry Snack Clusters are not just a treat; they are a wholesome and guilt-free snacking option that everyone will love. Their simple preparation and delightful flavor make them perfect for any occasion, whether for packing in lunchboxes, enjoying during movie nights, or even for a sweet breakfast addition. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
