Chocolate Nut Clusters (or Reindeer Poo)

The perfect combo of salty & sweet that is so incredibly easy to make. These chocolate nut clusters are a family favorite that the kids decided would best be named “Reindeer Poo” for the holiday season. **Microwave, Stovetop & Slow Cooker recipes included!

One of my favorite things about the holidays is that I end up receiving numerous boxes of chocolates.  I am a nuts & chews type of gal and even with a box dedicated to those- there never seem to be enough chocolate nut clusters in the box to satisfy my craving for them.

Added bonus – these can be made KETO-FRIENDLY, which means all of you who want to enjoy a little treat without busting your sugar-free, or low-carb diet – these are for you!

It really doesn’t matter to me what else is inside the box, those are the first thing I go for & subsequently, the first thing to disappear. That’s when I finally leave the box available for everyone else to get their pick.

We have had torrential rain here in So.NV for 5 days now I think.  Our average rainfall for a year is less than 5 inches.  This year we had a total of 2 inches before this storm came on through.

**Be sure to check out our Candied Pecans too!

Holiday Candy Recipe

This post contains some affiliate links. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

keto chocolate covered nuts

Chocolate Nut Clusters

My kids look at me while I am spooning out the mixture onto the parchment & ask me what they are called. I tell them “nut clusters”. My youngest daughter looks at me and says “They look like poo mom”.

Then my son then chimes in “Oooo- Reindeer Poo.  So call them what you like- depending on your flair for the funny. They are oh so yummy- no matter the name!

Here are some commonly asked questions

What Are Chocolate Nut Clusters?

Chocolate nut clusters are a type of dessert that is made from nuts, chocolate, and coconut oil. They are low in carbs and sugar-free if you want them to be, making them a healthy choice for those on a keto or low carb diet.

Chocolate nut clusters are a delicious way to enjoy some nuts and chocolate together without having to worry about added sugars or carbs. They’re also paleo-friendly, meaning they’re perfect for those following a Paleo diet.

Made with just nuts, chocolate, and Coconut Oil (for flavor), these little treats will satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your tummy happy!

How can chocolate nut clusters be stored?

Chocolate nut clusters can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. They will keep for quite a long time – if they last that long with the family eating them all.

You can keep them in the refrigerator if you live in a warm environment or if you keep the house warm. You don’t want them to get too melty.

Can I use a different type of chocolate chips?

Absolutely. I find that when using different varieties such as dark chocolate, I still need to add in some semi-sweet chocolate along with it as it has less fat content & will melt differently.

It would most likely not be creamy or smooth. This recipe will work fine with milk chocolate & white chocolate chips. I have not tried it with peanut butter chips. (I’m talking about the stovetop version or this)

You will definitely need to change out the chocolate to a sugar-free version if you are making these low-carb. There are plenty of great options out there for this and they taste just as good.

How to Make Chocolate Salted Nut Clusters using a Double Boiler

To make chocolate salted nut clusters, you will need a double boiler. Place the chocolate in the top of the double boiler with the water in the bottom portion.

Bring the water to a boil, stirring the chocolate until it is melted. This could take about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate is smooth. Remove from heat and then stir in the nuts until coated.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, if you are making these for a potluck or party, you can definitely double this recipe. Depending on the size of your pot or slow cooker – you can make as much as you need for your crowd.

Can I use peanuts instead of mixed nuts?

Yes, you can use peanuts instead of mixed nuts or almonds. Peanuts are a good replacement for mixed nuts because they’re low in carbs and sugar. They also have more healthy fats than other types of nuts.

How to Make Chocolate Nut Clusters on the Stovetop?

1. Melt chocolate and shortening/coconut oil in a double boiler over hot water.
2. Remove from heat. Stir in the nuts and coat completely.
3. Scoop out spoonfuls & drop them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
4. Chill in the refrigerator to harden for at least several hours.
5. Store in an airtight container.

Making Chocolate Nut Clusters in the Slow Cooker?

1. Layer the nuts, followed by the chocolate chips and shortening/coconut oil into your slow cooker.
2. Cover & cook on low for 1 hour – making sure to stir after 30 minutes until chocolate is melted.
3. Scoop out spoonfuls & drop them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
4. Chill in the refrigerator to harden for at least several hours.
5. Store in an airtight container.

How to Make Chocolate Nut Clusters in the Microwave?

1. Combine the chocolate and shortening/coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on 50 % power for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until melted and smooth.
2. Stir in the nuts and coat completely.
3. Scoop out spoonfuls & drop on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt if desired.
4. Chill in the refrigerator to harden for at least several hours.
5. Store in an airtight container.

Ingredients for Chocolate Nut Clusters

• Semi-Sweet Chocolate
• Shortening or Coconut Oil
• Nuts
• coarse salt – if desired

How long will homemade peanut clusters last?

Homemade peanut clusters will last for up to two weeks.

Can you freeze peanut clusters?

Yes, peanut clusters can be frozen. Simply place the clusters in a freezer-safe container and store them for up to three months.

What are the benefits of eating chocolate nut clusters?

Chocolate nut clusters are a great way to enjoy the benefits of chocolate while staying on track with your keto or low-carb diet. They’re also a good source of fiber, which can help improve blood sugar levels and promote overall health.

Pro Tips

• Make sure you stir the melted chocolate well so that it is smooth and creamy.
• This sweet treat can be made with milk chocolate chips, semisweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or dark chocolate chips.
• I like to serve these at room temperature.

• Try making these chocolate clusters with macadamia nuts, sesame seeds, and vanilla extract.
• When making keto chocolate nut clusters avoid using chocolate chips that contain cane sugar. These can be used as a fat bomb in moderation.
• The nutritional information listed here is for the standard chocolate treats. The total carbohydrate and dietary fiber counts will be different when making these for a keto diet.

• Sprinkle with a touch of sea salt or it is a perfect addition to the chocolate if you give it a good stir.

---

DON’T MISS MY HOLIDAY E-BOOK!

---

Products I love when making these Nut Clusters…

This nut clusters recipe is so simple and delicious – and you probably already have many of these items on hand this time of year just like I do!

OR If you’ve never made nut cluster candies bars before, you might be a bit nervous – but you’re going to love how delicious these are.

I have made a list below of the things I absolutely can’t live without when it comes to making this tasty dessert recipe. (you can also SHOP MY FAVORITES in my store)

• double boiler
• 3/4 sheet pans
• spatulas
• measuring cups
• measuring spoons

---

If you love this chocolate nut clusters recipe, you’re going to love these other dessert recipes too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

---