Crispy & Sweet Honey Almond Clusters
Nutty Bliss! The Perfect Homemade Honey Almond Clusters Recipe
Indulge in these delightfully crunchy and chewy honey almond clusters, perfect as a beer snack or a delightful treat for kids. The combination of sweet honey and toasted almonds creates an irresistible flavor explosion that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients- Almonds 150g
- Water 2 Tbsp (approx. 30ml)
- Honey 2 Tbsp (approx. 30ml)
- Canola Oil 2 Tbsp (approx. 30ml)
- Brown Sugar 20g
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, it’s crucial to toast the almonds thoroughly to bring out their nutty flavor. If you have an oven, preheat it to 160°C (320°F) and toast the almonds for about 5-7 minutes until they’re lightly golden and fragrant. Alternatively, you can use a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Toast the almonds, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until they release a delicious nutty aroma and deepen in color. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2
Once the almonds are toasted, set them aside in a separate bowl. Now, let’s prepare the delicious syrup. The syrup base will consist of water, canola oil (or any neutral cooking oil), and of course, honey for sweetness. In the same pan you used for toasting (or a clean one), combine 2 tablespoons of water, 2 tablespoons of canola oil, and 2 tablespoons of honey.
Step 3
Place the pan over medium heat and bring the syrup mixture to a boil. Once it starts bubbling vigorously, keep an eye on the heat. Cooking over medium heat rather than high will help prevent the syrup from burning.
Step 4
As soon as the syrup begins to boil, add all the toasted almonds back into the pan. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, stir the almonds continuously to ensure they are evenly coated with the syrup. Keep mixing to prevent them from clumping together.
Step 5
This is a key step! Continue to cook and stir the almonds in the syrup until the syrup has reduced and coats the almonds beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when the syrup becomes thick and sticky, and the almonds start to cling to each other slightly. Keep stirring to ensure even cooking and coating.
Step 6
Transfer the syrup-coated almonds to a large mixing bowl. Now, add the brown sugar (20g). The brown sugar will add another layer of caramelization and a richer, deeper flavor to your almond clusters.
Step 7
Work quickly once the brown sugar is added! Toss the almonds rapidly to coat them with the sugar before it fully dissolves into a syrup. The goal is to get a light coating of sugar crystals on each almond, rather than a completely melted syrup. Over-mixing can make them too sticky.
Step 8
Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper. Spread the sugar-coated almonds evenly on the prepared surface. Allow them to cool and set undisturbed. To speed up the process and ensure maximum crispiness, I placed mine in front of a gently running fan for a few minutes. This helps the clusters harden quickly.
Step 9
Once the syrup and sugar coating have completely hardened, your delicious honey almond clusters are ready! Let them cool completely before breaking them apart or cutting them into bite-sized pieces. They are best enjoyed fresh!
