Maple Glazed Nut Clusters

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These nut clusters are quick to make, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, and endlessly customizable. They’re perfect for meal prepping healthy snacks, adding to charcuterie boards, or topping salads and yogurt. Plus, they’re vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly, making them ideal for a wide range of dietary needs. With only a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a homemade treat that’s both wholesome and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts, cashews, etc.)
• Pure maple syrup
• Coconut oil (optional, for extra richness)
• Sea salt
• Ground cinnamon (optional)
• Vanilla extract (optional, for extra depth)

Directions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup and coconut oil (if using). Stir until the mixture is warm and slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, sea salt, and cinnamon if using.
4. Add the mixed nuts to the pan and stir to coat evenly with the maple glaze.
5. Using a spoon, drop small clusters of the glazed nuts onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Let the clusters cool at room temperature until the glaze hardens, about 30–45 minutes. For faster setting, place them in the refrigerator.
7. Once set, transfer to an airtight container for storage.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–16 clusters, depending on size.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Cooling Time: 30–45 minutes
Total Time: 40–55 minutes

Variations

• Spicy-Sweet: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a kick.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist.
• Fruit & Nut Clusters: Mix in dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates.
• Herbed Version: Add rosemary or thyme for a savory-sweet flavor profile.
• Nut-Free Option: Use seeds like pumpkin, sunflower, or sesame for a nut-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Store the nut clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. These do not require reheating, but if you like them slightly warm, you can microwave a cluster for about 5–10 seconds.

FAQs

Are these clusters crunchy or chewy?

They’re crunchy once the maple glaze hardens, especially if stored at room temperature.

Can I use only one type of nut?

Yes, feel free to use all almonds, all pecans, or any single nut you prefer.

Is maple syrup the only sweetener that works?

Maple syrup works best for this glaze, but honey can be used as an alternative if you’re not vegan.

How do I prevent the glaze from becoming too sticky?

Let the clusters cool completely and avoid humid environments. Refrigerating helps them stay firm.

Are these clusters good for gifting?

Absolutely. Package them in jars or treat bags for homemade gifts during the holidays or special occasions.

Can I toast the nuts first?

Yes, lightly toasting the nuts enhances their flavor, but it’s optional since they’ll cook slightly in the warm glaze.

What’s the best way to make even-sized clusters?

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the nut mixture evenly.

Can I add seeds to the mix?

Yes, pumpkin, sunflower, or chia seeds work great alongside or instead of nuts.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, but be cautious with small children due to the potential choking hazard of whole nuts.

Can I freeze maple glazed nut clusters?

Yes, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Maple Glazed Nut Clusters are the perfect combination of sweet, crunchy, and nutritious. Whether you’re making them for a healthy snack, an elegant party treat, or a thoughtful homemade gift, these clusters deliver flavor and simplicity in every bite. Keep a batch on hand for whenever your cravings strike—you won’t be disappointed.

Maple Glazed Nut Clusters

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Maple Glazed Nut Clusters are sweet, crunchy, and wholesome snacks made with a medley of nuts coated in a simple maple glaze. They’re naturally vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for snacking, gifting, or topping salads and yogurt.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 40–55 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 clusters
• Category: Snack, Dessert
• Method: Stovetop, No Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1. 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts, cashews, etc.)
2. 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
3. 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional)
4. 1/2 tsp sea salt
5. 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
6. 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

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Instructions

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm maple syrup and coconut oil (if using) for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, sea salt, and cinnamon (if using).
3. Add mixed nuts and stir until evenly coated.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the glazed nuts onto the prepared baking sheet, forming clusters.
5. Cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until glaze hardens, or refrigerate for faster setting.
6. Transfer clusters to an airtight container for storage.

Notes

• Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a spicy-sweet version.
• Drizzle with melted dark chocolate once cooled for extra indulgence.
• Mix in dried fruit like cranberries, raisins, or dates for variety.
• Use pumpkin or sunflower seeds instead of nuts for a nut-free option.
• Toast nuts before glazing for deeper flavor.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cluster
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg