Imagine a sweet treat that combines the crunch of cashews, the smoothness of white chocolate, the chewiness of caramel, and a hint of sea salt. These white chocolate caramel cashew clusters offer a perfect balance of salty and sweet, with an irresistible texture that's sure to satisfy your snack cravings.
Most ingredients for this recipe are readily available in most supermarkets. The key items that you might need to specifically look out for are the caramel squares and white chocolate. While caramel squares are usually found in the candy aisle, you can find white chocolate in the baking aisle. Also, you may want to choose high-quality cashews for the best results, often found in the nuts and dried fruits section.
White Chocolate Caramel Cashew Clusters Ingredients
Cashew: These provide a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet, buttery flavor. They're also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
White chocolate: Adds a smooth, creamy, and sweet flavor to the clusters. It also helps to hold everything together once it sets.
Sea salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.
Caramel squares: These are melted down to create a sweet, sticky, and chewy layer in each cluster.
Heavy cream: Used to thin out the caramel, making it easier to work with and eat.
One reader, Aidan Coy says:
This white chocolate caramel cashew clusters recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy white chocolate, rich caramel, and crunchy cashews is simply divine. The clusters are easy to make and make for a delightful treat. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a sweet and indulgent snack.
Techniques for Making Perfect Cashew Clusters
How to prepare the cashew clusters: This involves arranging the cashews on the baking sheets and preparing the caramel and chocolate for the clusters.
How to melt the caramel: This involves microwaving the caramels and cream in intervals, stirring to prevent scorching, and adjusting the consistency if needed.
How to melt the white chocolate: This involves melting the white chocolate in the microwave or using a double boiler, ensuring it is smooth and completely melted.
How to set the chocolate: After topping the clusters with melted chocolate, they should be allowed to set in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to ensure the chocolate is completely firm before serving.
How To Make White Chocolate Caramel Cashew Clusters
These white chocolate-covered cashew clusters are easy no-bake desserts paired with a simple caramel and a dash of sea salt for the best sweet-salty treat!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Caramel:
Instructions
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- Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
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- Arrange 35 clusters of cashews each with 1 to 2 inches between them. Use about 11 to 12 cashew halves per cluster.
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- Set some extra cashew aside, if any. Crush them up to sprinkle on top of the clusters later.
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- Place the caramels in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Pour the cream on top and microwave for 3 minutes total, stopping and stirring every 20 seconds to prevent the caramels from scorching.
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- If the caramel seems too thick after 3 minutes, stir in 1 to 2 more tablespoons of cream.
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- Spoon 2 teaspoons of caramel onto the center of each cluster. Set aside.
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- Melt the chocolate in the microwave or use a double boiler. If using the microwave, place chocolate in a medium microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, stopping and stirring every 20 seconds until completely melted and smooth.
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- Spoon the melted chocolate on top of each cluster, then top each with any crushed cashews and a sprinkle of sea salt.
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- Allow the chocolate to completely set in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
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- Serve and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Store leftover clusters in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
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- Calories: 131.12kcal
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- Fat: 8.00g
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- Saturated Fat: 2.77g
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- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.34g
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- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.18g
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- Carbohydrates: 13.59g
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- Fiber: 0.34g
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- Sugar: 10.15g
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- Protein: 2.65g
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- Cholesterol: 5.07mg
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- Sodium: 63.73mg
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- Calcium: 30.04mg
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- Potassium: 104.77mg
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- Iron: 0.70mg
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- Vitamin A: 10.94µg
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- Vitamin C: 0.13mg
Pro Tip for Achieving the Perfect Texture in Cashew Clusters
When melting the white chocolate, it's important to stir it frequently to prevent it from burning. White chocolate has a lower burning point than other types of chocolate, so it requires careful attention. Also, when spooning the caramel and chocolate onto the cashew clusters, try to ensure it covers as much of the nuts as possible. This will create a more balanced flavor in each bite.
Time-Saving Tips for White Chocolate Caramel Cashew Clusters
Prep ahead: Chop the cashews and melt the caramel in advance to streamline the process.
Use a double boiler: Melt the white chocolate using a double boiler for a more controlled and even melting process.
Chill the clusters: Place the clusters in the freezer for 15 minutes to speed up the setting process.
Organize ingredients: Arrange all the ingredients and tools needed before starting to avoid any last-minute confusion.
Use a silicone baking mat: Using a silicone baking mat can make the cleanup process quicker and easier.
Portion the clusters: Use a cookie scoop to portion out the clusters for a more consistent size and shape.
Multi-task: While the clusters are setting, clean up the kitchen to save time after enjoying the treats.
Pre-cut caramel: Cut the caramel squares in advance to save time during the assembly process.
Substitute Ingredients For White Chocolate Caramel Cashew Clusters Recipe
white chocolate - Substitute with vanilla candy coating: Vanilla candy coating has a similar creamy and sweet flavor to white chocolate, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
caramel squares - Substitute with homemade caramel: Homemade caramel can be used as a substitute for store-bought caramel squares, providing a more natural and customizable flavor to the clusters.
cashew - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can be used as a substitute for cashews, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the clusters.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream, adding a rich and creamy texture to the caramel without the dairy content.
Presentation Ideas for Caramel Cashew Clusters
Elevate the clusters: Arrange the clusters of cashews with precision and attention to detail, ensuring each one is perfectly shaped and visually appealing.
Artful drizzling: Skillfully drizzle the caramel onto each cluster, creating an elegant and artistic presentation that showcases the craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Garnish with precision: Carefully sprinkle the crushed cashews and a delicate touch of sea salt on top of each cluster, ensuring even distribution and a visually stunning finish.
Plating symmetry: Arrange the clusters on the serving platter with symmetrical precision, creating a visually pleasing and balanced presentation that reflects the culinary expertise behind the dish.
Use of negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the serving platter, allowing the clusters to stand out as the focal point and showcasing the artistry of the dish.
Incorporate color contrast: Consider the use of complementary colors in the presentation, such as a contrasting backdrop or garnishes, to enhance the visual appeal and create a striking overall impression.
Attention to platter selection: Choose a serving platter that complements the clusters, considering factors such as shape, size, and color to enhance the overall presentation and elevate the dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making White Chocolate Cashew Clusters
- Baking sheets: These are flat metal sheets used to bake cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
- Parchment paper: This is a non-stick paper used to line baking sheets and pans to prevent food from sticking.
- Silicone baking mats: These are non-stick mats that can be placed on baking sheets as an alternative to parchment paper.
- Microwave-safe bowl: A bowl that is safe to use in the microwave for heating or melting ingredients.
- Double boiler: A set of two pans where one fits inside the other, used to heat ingredients gently and evenly.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together, often made of glass, ceramic, or stainless steel.
- Food processor: A kitchen appliance used to chop, blend, and puree food quickly and efficiently.
- Refrigerator: An appliance used for cooling and preserving food, allowing the chocolate to set.
- Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
- Microwave: An appliance used for heating and melting ingredients quickly.
- Knife: A tool used for cutting and chopping ingredients, such as cashews.
- Spoon: A utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving ingredients.
- Oven: An appliance used for baking and cooking food, such as caramelizing the clusters of cashews.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for White Chocolate Caramel Cashew Clusters
- Allow the chocolate to completely set on the cashew clusters before storing. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, place the clusters in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- If stacking the clusters in a container, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.
- To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid storing the clusters in a humid environment, as the chocolate and caramel may soften and become sticky.
- If the clusters do become soft or sticky, you can place them in the refrigerator for a few minutes to help them firm up again before serving.
Interesting Trivia About Caramel Cashew Clusters
White chocolate caramel cashew clusters are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of white chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy cashews. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The combination of caramel and cashews provides a satisfying chewy and crunchy texture, while the white chocolate adds a smooth and creamy finish. These clusters are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great option for gifting or serving at parties. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures in these white chocolate caramel cashew clusters!
Is Making White Chocolate Caramel Cashew Clusters at Home Cost-Effective?
This white chocolate caramel cashew clusters recipe can be cost-effective for a household. The main cost lies in the white chocolate, cashews, and caramel. While these ingredients may be pricier, the clusters are a decadent treat that can be enjoyed in moderation. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10, considering the luxurious combination of flavors and the relatively simple preparation process.
Are White Chocolate Caramel Cashew Clusters Healthy?
The white chocolate caramel cashew clusters recipe, while indulgent and delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe is high in sugar, with caramel squares and white chocolate being the main culprits. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
- Heavy cream is used in the caramel, adding saturated fat to the recipe. While some saturated fat is okay in moderation, too much can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
- Cashews, while nutritious, are high in calories and fat. When combined with the caramel and white chocolate, the overall calorie and fat content of the recipe becomes quite high.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of caramel and white chocolate used in the recipe. This will lower the overall sugar and fat content without compromising too much on taste.
- Use a darker chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage (e.g., 70% or above) instead of white chocolate. Dark chocolate contains more antioxidants and less sugar compared to white chocolate.
- Replace some of the heavy cream in the caramel with a lower-fat alternative, such as milk or coconut milk. This will reduce the saturated fat content of the recipe.
- Incorporate more wholesome ingredients into the clusters, such as dried fruits (e.g., cranberries, raisins) or seeds (e.g., pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds). These additions will provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the recipe.
- Use a smaller portion size when serving the clusters. This will help control the overall calorie and fat intake while still allowing for a satisfying treat.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Treat
The combination of creamy white chocolate, rich caramel, and crunchy cashews in this recipe creates a delightful treat. The careful balance of flavors and textures makes these clusters a perfect indulgence for any occasion. The addition of sea salt adds a delightful contrast, enhancing the overall taste experience. The recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, allowing for a smooth cooking process. These clusters are sure to impress and satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth. Enjoy creating and savoring these delightful white chocolate caramel cashew clusters!
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Why trust this White Chocolate Caramel Cashew Clusters Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful treat with cashews, white chocolate, and creamy caramel. The combination of rich flavors and textures creates a truly indulgent experience. The careful instructions ensure that each step is executed perfectly, resulting in a delectable creation. The use of high-quality ingredients such as sea salt and heavy cream further enhances the recipe's appeal. With attention to detail and a focus on taste, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful and satisfying treat.
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