If you're following a keto diet and find yourself craving something sweet and crunchy, these keto coconut clusters are the perfect solution. These clusters are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making them an ideal go-to snack.
Why Choose Keto Coconut Clusters?
Traditional store-bought chocolate treats often contain hidden sugars and fillers like brown rice syrup and cane sugar, making them unsuitable for a ketogenic lifestyle. These homemade keto coconut clusters give you complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to avoid unnecessary sugars and additives. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those unsweetened coconut flakes and keto chocolate chips you probably already have in your pantry.
What are Keto Coconut Clusters?
Keto coconut clusters are a delightful combination of toasted coconut, nuts, and chocolate, all while maintaining a low-carb profile. Unlike conventional sugary snacks, these clusters rely on coconut oil and keto-friendly chocolate chips to keep them keto-compliant.
Meet the Recipe Creator
Hi! I'm Sandra, the recipe creator behind The Foodie Affair. You'll find easy-to-follow recipes, where I will feature fresh, wholesome ingredients with a focus on making meals that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. Along with recipes, you will learn cooking tips, and how traditional recipes can be turned into a healthier dish.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here’s a quick grocery list to get you started:
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- Unsweetened shredded coconut flakes
- Sugar-free chocolate chips (Lily's Dark Chocolate Chips and Bake Believe Dark Chocolate Chips are great options)
- Coconut oil
- Pecans or almonds (optional, can be substituted with other nuts or seeds)
- Keto-friendly sweetener of your choice
- Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds (optional, for added crunch and nutrition)
- Stevia glycerite (optional, to balance out any cooling sensation from the sweetener)
- Salt (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a quick overview of the steps to make these delicious coconut clusters:
- Toast the Coconut Flakes: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the unsweetened shredded coconut until it turns golden brown (about 3-5 minutes).
- Melt the Chocolate: Combine sugar-free chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth.
- Mix the ingredients: Stir the sweetener into the melted chocolate. Add the toasted coconut and chopped almonds or pecans. Mix until everything is well-coated.
- Form the clusters: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop small portions of the mixture onto a lined baking sheet.
- Chill: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 20 minutes, or until the clusters are firm.
Detailed Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Toast the Coconut: Heat a dry large skillet over medium heat. Add the unsweetened shredded coconut and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown. Keep a close eye on it, as coconut flakes brown quickly.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the sugar-free chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
- Combine Ingredients: In the bowl with the melted chocolate, add the toasted coconut and any nuts or seeds you're using. Mix well until everything is thoroughly coated in the chocolate mixture. If adding, stir sweetener into the melted chocolate.
- Form Clusters: Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to drop small, even portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Chill: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 20 minutes, or until the clusters are firm to the touch. Chilling helps them set properly.
Tips and Variations
- Sweetener Options: You can use any of your favorite keto-friendly sweeteners.
- Nut and Seed Variations: Not a fan of pecans or almonds? Try using different types of nuts or seeds like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds.
- Chocolate Choices: For the chocolate, Lily's Dark Chocolate Chips and Bake Believe Dark Chocolate Chips are excellent choices. You could also use sugar-free white chocolate chips, milk chocolate, or semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Shaping the Clusters: The easiest way to shape these cookies is with a cookie scoop.
Serving Suggestions
These coconut clusters make a great snack any time of the day. They also pair well with your favorite keto meals, such as Keto Chicken Artichoke Casserole or Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Salmon. You can also enjoy them atop some low carb yogurt, like Two Good or Elli Quark.
Storage Instructions
Store these coconut clusters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, place the clusters in a freezer bag in the freezer.
Nutritional Information
Please note that the nutritional information provided are guidelines and may vary based on the brand of products used. For your specific nutritional goals, use My Fitness Pal or Verywell Fit recipe calculators.
Why This Recipe Works
These keto coconut clusters were inspired by similar coconut clusters found at Costco. While those pre-packaged snacks are decent in terms of ingredients and macros, they are often too high in carbs for a strict ketogenic lifestyle. This homemade version allows you to enjoy a lightly sweet and salty treat that satisfies your need for crunch while being nut-free (if you choose), gluten-free, grain-free, and vegan.
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Additional Tips for Success
- Toasting Coconut: Because coconut flakes brown quickly, you’ll need to keep a close eye on them while toasting. Ovens and skillets vary, so this should take somewhere in the 3-5 minute range.
- Melting Chocolate: Melting chocolate can sometimes be tricky. Microwave in short intervals and stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Customizing Sweetness: If your sweetener has a cooling sensation, consider adding a drop of stevia glycerite to balance it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between shredded coconut and coconut chips?
Shredded coconut is finely grated, while coconut chips are larger and thicker pieces of coconut. For this recipe, shredded coconut flakes are preferred.
Is coconut oil ok for a keto diet?
Yes, coconut oil is a great option for a keto diet as it is high in healthy fats and low in carbohydrates. It can also provide a subtle coconut flavor to your dishes.
Can I make these clusters with white chocolate chips?
Yes, but make sure to use sugar-free white chocolate chips to keep the recipe low-carb. You could also use sugar-free milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Read also: Coconut Flour Keto Baking