Mint chocolate covered almonds are not just a snack; they’re a delightful experience waiting to elevate your taste buds. Perfectly balancing the rich decadence of dark chocolate with the refreshing zest of mint, these bite-sized treats are an ideal healthy indulgence. Whether you’re planning for a sophisticated New Year’s Eve gathering or simply seeking a wholesome yet irresistible snack, these mint chocolate almonds are your answer. A delicate sprinkle of coarse sugar adds an extra layer of sparkle and an appealing crunch that makes them utterly addictive. Prepare to fall in love with this effortlessly elegant creation!
The holiday season, often a whirlwind of festivities and family gatherings, can be a time for both joyful indulgence and cozy reflection. For many, it means venturing to colder climes, as our recent trip to Montana, the ‘Land of Negative Numbers,’ demonstrated. While the bone-chilling air certainly made its presence known – prompting thoughts of friends in North Dakota who question their geographical choices when the air itself “hurts their face” – the warmth of family and festive cheer quickly thawed any discomfort.
Indeed, cold weather isn’t so daunting when you’re snuggled indoors, surrounded by loved ones and a comforting mug of Honey Hot Chocolate. Our Christmas was filled with unforgettable moments that easily made up for the frosty temperatures outside. From witnessing Truman’s adorable portrayal of a wise man on Christmas Eve to Charlotte’s less-than-traditional interpretation of Mary (involving baby Jesus under her dress, a truly missed photo opportunity!), every moment was precious.
The culinary adventures were equally memorable. With Eric’s Swedish family, baking is not just a tradition; it’s an art form. We embarked on an epic cookie-making marathon, producing what felt like 300 cookies – a number I swear is not an exaggeration this time! The house was filled with the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked goods, a quintessential scent of the holidays. Beyond the baking, it was also a joy to see my Roasted Garlic Ratatouille photo transformed into a canvas print, gracing my mother-in-law Kris’s kitchen walls. It’s always a unique pleasure to see your work come to life in unexpected ways, extending beyond the digital realm.
Introducing Your New Favorite Snack: Mint Chocolate Covered Almonds
Amidst the holiday preparations and before our journey to Montana, I created something truly special: these incredibly simple yet utterly divine Mint Chocolate Covered Almonds. Now, I know what you might be thinking – “chocolate covered almonds? Been there, done that.” But trust me when I say, the addition of just a few drops of mint extract transforms this classic into something entirely new and extraordinarily refreshing. It’s a game-changer! I literally could not stop reaching for these; they offer the perfect cooling sensation while satisfying every chocolate craving.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful combination of ingredients. Using lightly salted almonds from a brand like Blue Diamond means you skip the step of toasting them first, saving you precious time without sacrificing flavor or crunch. The subtle saltiness perfectly complements the bittersweet dark chocolate and the invigorating mint. To finish, a generous sprinkle of coarse sugar not only adds a lovely textural contrast but also gives these almonds a beautiful, glittering appearance, making them visually appealing as well as delicious.
Versatile Indulgence: From New Year’s Eve to Everyday Snacking
These mint chocolate covered almonds are incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into various occasions. Imagine them as the ultimate discreet movie snack: tucked into your purse, they offer a sophisticated sweet counterpoint to your popcorn. Just a friendly warning – keep your purse off your lap, especially during an intense movie scene, unless you fancy sad, melted chocolate almonds! Their compact size and lack of mess make them perfect for on-the-go enjoyment.
For New Year’s Eve, they are an absolute must-have for your party spread. Forget the fuss of elaborate appetizers that require plates and cutlery. These almonds are the quintessential party snack: no mess, no awkward juggling of a drink and a plate, and certainly no risk of food dangling ungracefully from your mouth while you try to hold a conversation. They’re elegant, effortless, and utterly delightful – allowing you to socialize and celebrate without a worry.
What’s more, these almonds align perfectly with any health-conscious resolutions you might be setting for the new year. Almonds are renowned for their nutritional benefits, packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein. And if you’re a dark chocolate fan, you already know the buzz: many consider it to be practically a health food, often compared to kale for its antioxidant properties. So, go ahead and enjoy these guilt-free treats; you’re practically on a health kick!
Beyond special occasions, these mint chocolate almonds make fantastic homemade gifts. Package them in a pretty jar or cellophane bag with a ribbon, and you have a thoughtful, delicious present for friends, teachers, or hosts. They also serve as an excellent afternoon pick-me-up or a sophisticated after-dinner mint. The combination of satisfying crunch, rich chocolate, and invigorating mint is truly unparalleled and makes them a stand-out treat in any setting.
Mint Chocolate Covered Almonds Recipe
Mint Chocolate Covered Almonds
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 6-oz. can Blue Diamond Lightly Salted Almonds
- 3 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (I used 60%)
- 1/4-1/2 teaspoons mint extract, *be VERY careful!
- 1-2 tablespoons coarse sugar
Instructions
- Melt the chocolate in a medium-size microwave safe bowl for 30 seconds, then stir.
- Continue microwaving and stirring in 30 second intervals until the chocolate still has a few unmelted lumps in it. Stir until smooth.
- Carefully add the mint extract and stir. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and go from there. Don’t overdo it!
- Add the almonds to the bowl and stir to coat.
- Lay a large sheet of parchment or wax paper out onto a work surface. (If you plan to refrigerate them to cool faster, place on a baking sheet).
- Use a fork to carefully remove each almond and place on the paper. You want to make sure they are separated so that they don’t cool in clumps.
- While they are still wet, sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Let dry completely. You can speed this up by putting them in the fridge or freezer.
- Once the chocolate has hardened, you can store them in the almond can that you have leftover, or in a tupperware. Keep in a cool place or the fridge.
Notes
Nutrition
This post is proudly sponsored by Blue Diamond Almonds. We appreciate your support for the brands that help keep The Food Charlatan thriving and bringing you delicious recipes!
Beyond the Almonds: Exploring More Appetizer & Dessert Delights
As the year draws to a close, and a new one awaits, there’s always an appetite for fresh ideas in the kitchen. If you’re still on the hunt for easy and impressive appetizers or delightful desserts for your upcoming celebrations, we’ve got you covered. These selections are perfect for entertaining, offering a range of flavors and preparation styles to suit any preference.
1. Effortless Entertaining: 18 Easy Appetizer Ideas for New Year’s Eve
Planning a New Year’s Eve bash doesn’t have to be stressful. Dive into our curated collection of 18 Easy Appetizer Ideas for New Year’s Eve, designed to impress your guests without keeping you in the kitchen all night. From savory bites to quick dips, this roundup ensures your party spread is both diverse and delicious.
2. Quick & Healthy: Smokey Almond Cream Cheese Endive Bites
For those seeking a no-cook, lightning-fast appetizer that’s also remarkably healthy, these Smokey Almond Cream Cheese Endive Bites are an absolute winner. You can whip them up in just 5 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute guests or a wholesome snack anytime. The crisp endive leaves provide a perfect vessel for the creamy, smokey almond filling, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
3. Bold Flavors: Asian Cheese Ball with Sriracha Almonds
Looking to add a unique, spicy kick to your appetizer lineup? Our Asian Cheese Ball with Sriracha Almonds is sure to be a conversation starter. This creative twist on a classic cheese ball combines savory, creamy flavors with the exciting heat of sriracha-coated almonds, providing an unforgettable snacking experience that’s perfect for adventurous palates.
4. Guilt-Free Sweetness: Secret Ingredient Chocolate Pecan Bites (Gluten-Free!)
For those mindful of their waistlines but unwilling to compromise on dessert, these Secret Ingredient Chocolate Pecan Bites are a revelation. Naturally gluten-free, these bites are surprisingly light yet incredibly satisfying, proving that healthy eating can still be utterly delicious. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt.
5. More Mint Chocolate Magic: Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies & Shamrock Shake
Can’t get enough of the invigorating mint chocolate combination? You’re in luck! Our reader-favorite Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with that perfect minty-chocolate flavor. They’re a classic for a reason!
And for the ultimate creamy, dreamy beverage, indulge in our Shamrock Shake. This recipe promises the best smooth, creamy, and minty milkshake experience of your life, making it a perfect treat to cool down or simply enjoy a moment of pure bliss.
6. Friends’ Favorite Appetizers: Delicious Ideas from Our Community
We believe in sharing the love, especially when it comes to fantastic food! Check out these inspiring appetizer ideas from our talented friends in the culinary community:
- Almond Crusted Chicken Bites from Food Faith Fitness: A savory, crunchy delight perfect with a sweet and tangy honey mustard dip.
- Mini Pizza Cheeseballs from Very Culinary: All the beloved flavors of pizza packed into bite-sized cheeseballs – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
- No-Bake Dark Chocolate Almond Cookies from Two Peas and Their Pod: An easy, no-fuss cookie recipe that delivers rich chocolate and nutty almond goodness without turning on the oven.
We hope these recipes inspire you to create memorable moments and delicious treats for all your celebrations. Remember to share your culinary adventures with us on social media!
Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram | Twitter