Delightful Fruit and Nut Clusters

Name: Delightful Fruit and Nut Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans); 1 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots); 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Flour & Frosting Recipes

I love making Delightful Fruit and Nut Clusters as a healthy snack option that satisfies my sweet tooth. The combination of various nuts and dried fruits creates a delightful texture and burst of flavors in every bite. Not only are these clusters easy to whip up, but they also make for a great energy booster during busy days. With just a few ingredients, I can create a crunchy, chewy treat that’s perfect for packing in lunchboxes or enjoying at home. Trust me, once you try them, you won't want to go back!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:02:28.513Z

When I first experimented with these clusters, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. I combined my favorite dried fruits with mixed nuts and melted some honey to bind them together. The result was a chewy and crunchy treat that quickly became a family favorite. My kids love helping to mix everything together and shaping them into clusters!

One tip I learned along the way is to slightly roast the nuts before mixing them in. This enhances their flavor and adds a wonderful depth to the clusters. Every bite bursts with the delightful combination of sweet and savory, making these little snacks utterly irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Packed with nutrients and natural energy.
Customizable based on your favorite nuts and fruits.

Choosing the Right Nuts and Fruits

The beauty of Delightful Fruit and Nut Clusters lies in their versatility. When selecting nuts, consider using a mix that includes almonds, walnuts, and pecans for a delightful crunch and distinct flavor. Almonds provide a mild sweetness, walnuts add a slippery richness, and pecans bring a buttery note that elevates the entire experience. Also, feel free to experiment with hazelnuts or cashews if you prefer a different flavor profile.

For dried fruits, I enjoy a combination of raisins, cranberries, and apricots, but you can customize this to your liking. For example, adding dried figs gives a more intense sweetness, while coconut flakes can enhance the chewy texture. Just make sure to chop larger fruit pieces, like apricots, into smaller bits to ensure an even distribution throughout the clusters.

Perfectly Formed Clusters

When forming the clusters, use slightly damp hands to prevent the mixture from sticking, ensuring a smoother process. To achieve a uniform shape, consider using a round tablespoon to scoop out equal portions before shaping them gently. This method will help create clusters that cook evenly, giving you that delightful crunch on the outside while remaining chewy inside.

Allowing your clusters to cool at room temperature is crucial; it helps them maintain their shape as they solidify. However, if you're pressed for time, you could place them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes after cooling at room temperature for 15 minutes. Just remember to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start making your clusters:

Ingredients

1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
1 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Once you have everything ready, it's time to put them all together!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your clusters:

Prepare the Nuts

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the mixed nuts on a baking sheet and roast for about 5–7 minutes, until they are fragrant. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the roasted nuts, dried fruits, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is well-coasted in the honey.

Form Clusters

Using your hands or a spoon, form small clusters of the mixture and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Cool and Serve

Allow the clusters to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then gently remove them from the parchment. Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your tasty and healthy fruit and nut clusters!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different nuts and dried fruits based on your preferences. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor!

Ingredient Customization

If you’re looking to swap out honey for a vegan option, maple syrup is a fantastic choice that provides the same sticky consistency while adding a unique flavor. Keep in mind that honey offers a bit more sweetness than maple syrup, so you may want to adjust the quantity based on your taste preference. You can also explore agave nectar or brown rice syrup if you're interested in variations.

As for nuts and dried fruits, the sky's the limit. You can incorporate pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version that's equally nutritious. Additionally, if you're aiming to cut back on sugars, try using unsweetened dried fruits or reduce the amount of honey or syrup used.

Storing and Freezing Clusters

These clusters stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you notice they start to lose their crunch, you can revive them by placing them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to restore their texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the clusters. Lay them flat on a baking sheet until they are solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to thaw them at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying to get the best out of their texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long do these clusters last?

They can last up to two weeks if stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

→ Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?

Fresh fruits contain too much moisture, so it's best to stick with dried fruits for this recipe.

→ Is there a nut-free alternative?

Yes! You can substitute nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

→ Can I add chocolate to these clusters?

Absolutely! Drizzling melted dark chocolate over the clusters before they cool can add a delicious twist.