Chocolate Nut Clusters

8 servings Prep: 10 m Cook: 10 m Total: 35 m Beginner
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Chocolate Nut Clusters
These quick chocolate pecan clusters are perfect when you need a homemade candy in a hurry. They’re similar to chocolate covered pecans but easier since you don’t have to coat individual nuts. Just three ingredients and about 35 minutes from start to finish make these ideal for holiday gift-giving or last-minute dessert needs.
Simple chocolate pecan clusters made with just three ingredients—semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and chopped pecans. These easy no-bake candies are ready in 35 minutes and perfect for gift-giving or holiday treats.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 (15 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 cups chopped pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Combine the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips in a sauce pan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until the chocolate is completely melted and mixture is smooth, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
  3. Drop the mixture by spoonful onto wax paper or parchment paper. Let cool at room temperature until chocolate is firm, about 15-20 minutes. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my chocolate mixture too thick to drop?

A: If the mixture becomes too thick as it cools, you can rewarm it gently over low heat, stirring constantly. Work quickly once you remove it from heat to drop all the clusters before it firms up.

Q: Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

A: Yes, milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips work well. Keep in mind that milk chocolate will be sweeter, while dark chocolate will have a more intense flavor.

Q: How long do these clusters stay fresh?

A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips and Techniques

Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop uniform clusters. Working quickly is key—the chocolate mixture begins to firm up as it cools. If you want a fancier presentation, you can pipe the mixture using a pastry bag instead of dropping by spoonful.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • pecans: walnuts, almonds, or peanuts
  • semi-sweet chocolate chips: milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips

Equipment Needed

  • Medium sauce pan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Wax paper or parchment paper
  • Tablespoon or small cookie scoop