Save Decadent chocolate fudge clusters infused with the savory flavors of a classic charcuterie board, featuring dried fruits, nuts, and a hint of sea salt for the perfect sweet and savory treat.
I created these fudge clusters for an easy holiday dessert platter and they always disappear fast. The mix of chocolate and salty nuts with a hint of fruit really makes them stand out at parties.
Ingredients
- Chocolate Base: 340 g (12 oz) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips, 120 ml (1/2 cup) sweetened condensed milk, 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Charcuterie Mix-Ins: 60 g (1/2 cup) chopped dried figs, 60 g (1/2 cup) chopped dried apricots, 60 g (1/2 cup) chopped candied orange peel, 75 g (3/4 cup) roasted, salted almonds (coarsely chopped), 60 g (1/2 cup) roasted pistachios (shelled), 40 g (1/3 cup) thinly sliced prosciutto or salami (crisped and chopped, optional, omit for vegetarian), 1 tbsp flaky sea salt (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt Chocolate:
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Combine Mix-Ins:
- Fold in dried figs, apricots, candied orange peel, almonds, pistachios, and crisped prosciutto or salami (if using). Mix until evenly combined.
- Form Clusters:
- Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle each cluster with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until fully set.
- Serve:
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Save My kids love helping shape the clusters and picking their favorite mix-ins. It often turns into a fun weekend kitchen activity for the whole family.
Required Tools
Use a medium saucepan for melting, a sturdy spoon for mixing, and cover your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal. Measuring cups help keep portions accurate.
Allergen Information
This recipe includes milk and nuts and may contain soy or sulfites depending on your selected brands. Omit prosciutto or salami for vegetarian clusters.
Nutritional Information
Each cluster is about 120 calories with 7 g fat, 14 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein if made without meat.
Save Serve these fudge clusters chilled for best texture. They also travel well, making them perfect for parties or gifting.
Recipe FAQ
- → What substitutions can I make for the dried fruits?
You can swap figs and apricots for dried cherries, cranberries, or even raisins to suit your taste.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, simply omit the prosciutto or salami for a vegetarian-friendly option without sacrificing flavor.
- → How should clusters be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer freshness.
- → Can I use different nuts in the mix?
Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts make excellent alternatives to almonds and pistachios.
- → What type of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips melt smoothly and add deep richness, but milk chocolate works too.
- → How long should clusters chill before serving?
Chill for at least 1 hour, or until clusters are firm and set, ensuring easy serving and handling.