Taza Chocolate Covered Nuts: A Taste Test of Every Variety

When you think of Taza Chocolate, you probably picture their iconic stone-ground discs and bars. But the brand also makes a line of chocolate covered nuts that deserves just as much attention. We tasted through the current lineup to see how the rustic, gritty texture of Taza's chocolate plays with almonds and hazelnuts.

In this taste test, we evaluate each nut variety on flavor balance, crunch, and how well the chocolate coating complements the nut. Whether you're a dark chocolate purist or prefer a touch of sweetness, we'll help you decide which bag to add to your next order.

The Contenders: Wicked Dark Almonds and Hazelnuts

Taza currently offers two chocolate covered nut varieties: Wicked Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds and Wicked Dark Chocolate Covered Hazelnuts. Both use Taza's signature 70% dark chocolate, which is stone-ground for a slightly gritty, honest texture. The almonds are whole and generously coated, while the hazelnuts offer a more delicate crunch.

We started with the almonds. The dark chocolate has a deep, roasted flavor that stands up well to the nut's natural earthiness. The coating is thick enough to satisfy a chocolate craving but not so thick that it overwhelms the almond. The hazelnuts, on the other hand, have a softer bite and a sweeter, more buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the bitter chocolate.

• Both varieties are gluten-free and vegan, made with simple ingredients.

Flavor and Texture Comparison

The main difference between the two comes down to texture. Almonds are firmer and provide a satisfying crunch that lasts. Hazelnuts are more fragile, so the chocolate coating takes center stage. If you want a more intense nut presence, go with almonds. If you prefer a smoother, melt-in-your-mouth experience, hazelnuts are the way to go.

In terms of sweetness, both are well-balanced. The 70% dark chocolate is not overly bitter, and it has a subtle sweetness that lets the nuts shine. We found the hazelnuts to be slightly sweeter overall, likely because the nut itself has a natural sweetness that complements the chocolate.

• For a less sweet option, try the almonds; for a more indulgent treat, choose hazelnuts.

How They Compare to Other Taza Products

If you're already a fan of Taza's Sea Salt & Almond bar, you'll notice a different experience with the covered nuts. The bar has a thin, even layer of chocolate and a more uniform texture, while the covered nuts offer a thicker coating and a more rustic look. The nuts are also roasted, giving them a deeper flavor than the bar's almond pieces.

For those who like variety, consider the Wicked Dark Assorted 4-Bar Bundle, which includes several dark chocolate bars. But if you're specifically craving chocolate covered nuts, the two varieties we tested are your best bet. They also make a great addition to a snack board or trail mix.

• Pair the covered nuts with a cup of coffee from Taza's Cafe Blend 3kg bag for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

After tasting both varieties, we can confidently say that Taza's chocolate covered nuts are a worthy addition to their lineup. The Wicked Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds offer a robust crunch, while the Hazelnuts provide a more delicate, buttery bite. Whichever you choose, you'll get the same high-quality stone-ground chocolate that Taza is known for. If you're still undecided, why not try both and decide for yourself?