Dark Chocolate Pistachio Clusters
By Sammi Brondo — February 16, 2026
It’s no secret that I have a sweet tooth. I need a little (or something a lot) something sweet every day.
Sometimes, I’m in the mood for a warm, super comforting chocolate chip cookie.
Other times, a small piece of chocolate feels really satisfying after a meal.
And sometimes, I like to find snacks that are sweet, nourishing, and filling – like these Pistachio Clusters.
Snacks are so important to me. They bridge the gap between meals. I would never make it from lunch to dinner without a snack – I’d get way too hungry!
In order to be really filling, I look for snacks for contain both protein and fiber. Together, protein and fiber are key nutrients in order to keep us full.
And on top of that, I look for snacks to be easy. Between making recipes for work, making food for myself, and cooking for my kids, I am always cooking. I can’t also be spending hours making snacks!
And finally again, I have a sweet tooth. I love something sweet as a snack.
That brings me to these Pistachio Clusters. They truly hit all the boxes: they’re nourishing with both protein and fiber, they’re almost too easy to make, and they’re sweet and delicious.
Plus, once you make them one time, you’ll have them on hand and ready to go whenever you want a sweet snack again.

Prep ingredients
You’ll need: 3/4 cup unsalted pistachios (without shells), 1/2 cup puffed rice cereal, 1 1/4 cup dark chocolate and 1 teaspoon coconut oil.

Chop pistachios
Roughly chop the pistachios and add to a large bowl. Add the puffed rice cereal to a large bowl.

Melt chocolate
In a separate bowl, add the dark chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave for about 1-2 minutes, until the chocolate just starts to melt. Stir until smooth.

Pour over mixture
Pour the chocolate over the pistachio and nut mixture and toss until everything is fully coated in chocolate.

Scoop into clusters
Using a spoon, scoop up large spoonfuls and place onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can use the back of the spoon to gently press the clusters into a circular shape.

Place in fridge
Place in the fridge to harden for 20-30 minutes.

Serve
Sprinkle with salt and serve for a snack or dessert!
Notes
- Pistachios: I used Wonderful Pistachios Unsalted pistachios here. Wonderful Pistachios is hands down my favorite brand for pistachios (pro tip: you MUST try the dill pickle or cinnamon flavor – they’re sooo good!). Not only are pistachios so delicious, but they’re also a really nutrient-dense nut. They’re a complete protein and contain over 30 vitamins and minerals.
- Puffed rice cereal: This adds a delicious crunch. Any brand will do!
- Chocolate: You can use a chocolate bar or chocolate chips. Make sure to add a little coconut oil to help the chocolate melt smoothly.
- Storage: I recommend storing these clusters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted pistachios without shells
- 1/2 cup puffed rice cereal
- 1 1/4 cup dark chocolate
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Roughly chop the pistachios and add to a large bowl. Add the puffed rice cereal to a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, add the dark chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave for about 1-2 minutes, until the chocolate just starts to melt. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate over the pistachio and nut mixture and toss until everything is fully coated in chocolate.
- Using a spoon, scoop up large spoonfuls and place onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can use the back of the spoon to gently press the clusters into a circular shape. Place in the fridge to harden for 20-30 minutes.















