Ingredients:
1 cup whole almonds
8 ounces (about 1 1/3 cups) high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the Almonds:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread the almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Toast the almonds in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are fragrant and slightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
2. Prepare the Coating Pan Attachment:
Ensure that the coating pan attachment is clean, dry, and properly assembled.
3. Melt the Dark Chocolate:
Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces to ensure even melting.
You can melt the chocolate using a double boiler or microwave, as described in the previous recipe.
4. Load the Coating Pan Attachment:
Place the toasted almonds in the coating pan attachment.
Pour the melted chocolate over the almonds in the coating pan.
5. Start the Coating Process:
Turn on the coating pan attachment, which will start rotating the almonds and evenly distribute the melted chocolate over them.
6. Add Flavor Variations (Optional):
If desired, you can sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or add a touch of vanilla extract to the chocolate-coated almonds as they are rotating in the coating pan attachment.
7. Allow the Chocolate to Set:
Continue running the coating pan attachment until the chocolate on the almonds starts to set and harden. This can take several minutes.
8. Remove and Cool:
Turn off the coating pan attachment and carefully remove the chocolate-coated almonds.
Place the chocolate-coated almonds on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray to cool and fully set.
9. Store and Serve:
Once the chocolate is fully set, transfer the Dark Chocolate Almonds to an airtight container or resealable bag.
Store them in a cool, dry place. Properly stored, they should last for several weeks.
Using a coating pan attachment helps ensure that the chocolate is evenly distributed over the almonds, creating a professional-looking finish. This method is commonly used for larger batches and can be a fun and efficient way to create chocolate-covered treats. Enjoy your homemade Dark Chocolate Almonds!