Sweet Peanut Clusters Recipe

Irresistibly Crunchy Peanut Clusters Recipe for Sweet Snackers

Chocolate and peanuts dance together in these irresistible sweet peanut clusters that will make your taste buds sing with joy.

Every bite brings a perfect balance of creamy chocolate and crunchy peanuts.

The combination is simple yet decadent, melding rich flavors into one addictive treat.

These clusters require minimal ingredients and come together in just minutes.

No complicated techniques or fancy equipment needed for this delightful dessert.

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these mouthwatering clusters that are sure to become a household favorite.

Grab a batch and watch them disappear in record time.

Kitchen Gear For Peanut Clusters

  • Microwave-safe bowl: Essential for melting chocolate smoothly and safely.
  • Microwave or double boiler: Key for gently melting chocolate without burning.
  • Parchment-lined baking sheet: Prevents clusters from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
  • Spoon or cookie scoop: Perfect for dropping uniform chocolate peanut clusters.
  • Spatula or wooden spoon: Helps stir chocolate and coat peanuts evenly.

Quick Guide To Make Peanut Clusters

  • Create Chocolate Base

Gently transform chocolate chips with a dash of coconut oil using microwave or double boiler technique. Warm slowly, stirring carefully until silky smooth. Add a splash of vanilla for extra richness.

  • Fold in Crunchy Nuts

Tumble roasted peanuts into melted chocolate mixture. Swirl and coat every single nut thoroughly, ensuring complete chocolate coverage.

  • Shape Delightful Clusters

Dollop chocolatey peanut mixture onto parchment-lined tray. Use spoon to create rustic, uneven mounds. Optional: Drizzle white chocolate for elegant finish and sprinkle sea salt for flavor punch.

  • Chill and Solidify

Place tray in refrigerator. Allow clusters to firm up completely, transforming from glossy liquid to crisp, crackling treats. Wait approximately 30 minutes.

  • Store and Savor

Transfer clusters to sealed container. Enjoy within one week at room temperature or extend life by refrigerating up to three weeks. Perfect for spontaneous snacking or sharing with friends.

Peanut Clusters Tips And Extras

  • Chocolate Melting Magic: Use high-quality chocolate chips for richer flavor and smoother melting.
  • Salt Sensation: Sprinkle flaky sea salt before chilling to create a gourmet sweet-salty contrast that elevates the entire treat.
  • Diet-Friendly Swaps: Replace regular peanuts with roasted almonds or mixed nuts for different flavor profiles and dietary needs like low-carb or keto diets.
  • No-Melt Trick: Add a tablespoon of coconut oil to prevent chocolate from seizing and create a glossy, professional-looking finish that helps clusters hold their shape perfectly.
  • Festive Decorations: Drizzle white chocolate or sprinkle crushed candy canes during holiday seasons to transform these simple clusters into festive treats that wow guests.

Serving Peanut Clusters Made Easy

  • Nutty Chocolate Companion: Pair these clusters with a cold glass of milk for a classic, comforting treat that balances the rich chocolate and crunchy peanuts.
  • Sweet Dessert Accent: Crumble the clusters over vanilla ice cream or yogurt to add a delightful texture and intense chocolate-peanut flavor to your favorite dessert.
  • Gourmet Gift Idea: Package the clusters in cute mason jars or decorative boxes with ribbon for a homemade, heartwarming present that showcases your culinary skills and love.
  • Coffee Break Sidekick: Serve alongside espresso or cappuccino for a sophisticated snack that complements the coffee's robust flavor and provides a delicious chocolate-peanut crunch.

How To Keep Peanut Clusters Fresh

  • Quick Fridge Storage: Keep these delightful clusters in an airtight container, separating layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. This method maintains their perfect crunch and prevents unwanted moisture.
  • Freezing Magic: Wrap individual clusters in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. These tasty treats can stay frozen for up to 2 months, ready for a spontaneous chocolate craving.
  • Temperature Tricks: Store at room temperature if your home is cool (around 65-70°F). Warmer environments might cause chocolate to soften, so refrigeration becomes your best friend during hot days.
  • Make-Ahead Brilliance: Prepare a large batch and stash them in different storage spots. Refrigerated clusters stay fresh for 3 weeks, giving you a delicious snack whenever hunger strikes.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 168 kcal

Servings: 13

Simple Ingredients For Peanut Clusters

For Chocolate Base:
  • Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Rich, smooth foundation that creates the dreamy coating for the clusters, choose high-quality chips for best flavor.
  • Coconut Oil: Helps chocolate melt smoothly and adds silky texture, opt for refined version for neutral taste.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances chocolate's depth and provides subtle aromatic warmth, use pure extract for best results.
For Crunch and Texture:
  • Peanuts: Provide hearty crunch and protein-packed core of the treat, select roasted and unsalted nuts for controlled saltiness.
For Optional Finishing Touches:
  • White Chocolate: Creates elegant drizzle and decorative contrast, select high-quality chocolate with creamy consistency.
  • Sea Salt: Elevates flavor profile by adding sharp, bright contrast to sweet chocolate, choose flaky variety for delicate sprinkle.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Sweet Peanut Clusters Recipe

Sweet Peanut Clusters Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Rich chocolate peanut clusters deliver a classic confection that combines smooth chocolate with crunchy roasted peanuts. Delightful homemade treats melt in your mouth, offering sweet comfort in each bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (480 ml) roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted)
  • 1.5 cups (255 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk/dark chocolate)
  • 0.5 cup (85 g) white chocolate chips (optional, for a swirl effect)
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) coconut oil or vegetable shortening (for smooth melting)
  • 0.5 tsp (2.5 ml) vanilla extract
  • 0.25 tsp (1.25 ml) sea salt (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Chocolate Preparation: Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring at 30-second intervals until smooth and glossy. Infuse with vanilla extract for depth of flavor.
  2. Peanut Integration: Gently fold roasted peanuts into the molten chocolate, ensuring complete and even coating of each nut within the rich, silky mixture.
  3. Cluster Formation: Artfully drop spoonfuls of the chocolate-peanut blend onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing each cluster to develop a rustic, organic shape.
  4. Decorative Finishing: Elegantly drizzle white chocolate over the clusters, creating intricate patterns. Sprinkle flaky sea salt across the surface to balance sweetness and add a subtle crunch.
  5. Setting and Storage: Refrigerate the baking sheet for 30 minutes until clusters firm completely. Once solidified, transfer to an airtight container, where they can be stored at room temperature for one week or refrigerated for up to three weeks, maintaining their exquisite texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Select High-Quality Chocolate: Choose premium semi-sweet chocolate chips with at least 60% cocoa content for deeper, richer flavor and smoother melting.
  • Control Melting Temperature: Melt chocolate slowly and gently to prevent seizing or burning, using 30-second microwave intervals and stirring thoroughly between each interval.
  • Manage Peanut Texture: Use roasted, unsalted peanuts for optimal crunch and ensure they are completely dry to prevent chocolate from becoming grainy or separating.
  • Optimize Cooling Process: Allow clusters to set in a consistent, cool environment like the refrigerator, ensuring even hardening and preventing chocolate bloom or uneven texture.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 168
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 40 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 1 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Co-Founder & Content Creator

Expertise

Nutritional Analysis​, Dietary Accommodations​, Food Writing and Blogging​,

Education

University of Texas at Austin

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
  • Focus: Emphasis on dietary planning, food science, and the relationship between nutrition and health.​

Institute of Culinary Education, New York, NY

  • Program: Plant-Based Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized training in vegetarian and vegan cooking techniques, emphasizing whole foods and sustainability.​

Olivia Bennett is Cooking Crusade’s go-to expert for nutritious, feel-good food. Based in Austin, she blends her degree in Nutrition from the University of Texas with plant-based culinary training from the Institute of Culinary Education.

Olivia’s recipes are all about balance: vibrant, wholesome, and easy-to-love dishes that work for all kinds of eaters. Her mission is simple: to make healthy eating approachable and genuinely tasty, with tips that support your lifestyle, not complicate it.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star