This recipe and photo were created by contributor Kelli Dunn of The Corner Kitchen. Learn more about Kelli and this recipe by checking out her accompanying post, and check out her Greatist bio on our About Page! 

The holiday season is an absolutely wonderful time of year. But, I always find it an especially difficult time to stay healthy. I’m pretty sure I’m not alone here. It’s not easy, but I try to find a balance between indulging in holiday treats and sticking to a nutritious diet.

These cocoa dusted almonds are one of my favorite nearly guilt-free snacks, and come in handy on so many occasions during the holiday season! If you’re hosting a party, these slightly sweet and salty nuts make a great addition to the line up. I always love homemade holiday gifts, and these almonds offer a nice change of pace from cookies and candy (just store in a mason jar and wrap with a beautiful ribbon). Plus, they're not bad holiday shopping  fuel, either.

Recipe: Cocoa Dusted Almonds

Photo by Kelli Dunn

Makes 2 cups

What You'll Need:

2 cups whole raw almonds
2 tablespoons agave syrup
2 teaspoons sea salt
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

What to Do:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large bowl combine almonds, agave syrup and sea salt. Use a rubber spatula to mix together, fully coating the almonds.
3. Spread almonds in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, stirring twice during baking to prevent almonds from burning.
5. Remove baking sheet from the oven.
6. Immediately return almonds to the bowl, add cocoa powder and toss to coat.
7. Fully cool and store in an air tight container.

What's your go-to homemade holiday gift? Share your ideas in the comments below!