Homemade Chocolate Peanut Clusters

Ingredients

• 3 cups (450 g) roasted salted peanuts

• 2 cups (340 g) milk chocolate chips

• 1 cup (170 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

• A pinch of sea salt (optional)

Optional additions:

• ½ cup dark chocolate chips

• ¼ cup white chocolate for drizzling

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the baking tray

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.

Make sure the tray is clean and completely dry.

Step 2: Prepare the peanuts

Measure the roasted peanuts and place them in a bowl.

If using unsalted peanuts, add a small pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Set aside.

Step 3: Melt the chocolate

Place the milk chocolate chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.

Melt using one of these methods:

• Microwave: Heat in 20–30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth.

• Double boiler: Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over gently simmering water. Stir until completely melted.

Be careful not to let water enter the chocolate.

Step 4: Add extra flavor

Stir the optional coconut oil and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate.

Mix until smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Add the peanuts

Pour the roasted peanuts into the melted chocolate.

Stir gently with a spatula until every peanut is completely coated in chocolate.

Make sure the mixture is thick and evenly combined.

Step 6: Form the chocolate clusters

Using a spoon, scoop small portions of the chocolate-peanut mixture.

Drop each portion onto the prepared baking sheet.

Shape them into small round or irregular clusters, just like the ones shown in the picture.

Leave a little space between each cluster.

Step 7: Chill the clusters

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for approximately 30–45 minutes.

Allow the chocolate to become completely firm.

Step 8: Final touch

Once the chocolate has hardened, gently remove the clusters from the parchment paper.

If desired, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top or sprinkle with a little sea salt.

Step 9: Serve and enjoy!

Arrange the chocolate peanut clusters on a serving plate.

Enjoy their delicious combination of crunchy peanuts and rich chocolate!

Nutritional Information

Estimated values per cluster, based on 24 clusters.

Quick Nutrition Info (Q/S)

• Protein: Peanuts provide plant-based protein.

• Healthy fats: Peanuts contain mostly unsaturated fats.

• Antioxidants: Dark chocolate contains cocoa antioxidants.

• Fiber: Peanuts and chocolate contribute dietary fiber.

• Magnesium: Peanuts provide magnesium.

• Energy: Chocolate and peanuts make these clusters an energy-rich snack.

• Sugar: Chocolate contributes added sugar, so enjoy in moderation.

Helpful Cooking Tips

1. Use good-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor.

2. Roast the peanuts lightly for an extra crunchy texture.

3. Never overheat chocolate because it can become thick and grainy.

4. Stir the peanuts gently to keep the clusters chunky.

5. Use two spoons to make evenly sized clusters.

6. Add a pinch of sea salt for a delicious sweet-and-salty combination.

7. Refrigerate until completely firm before storing.

Storage Instructions

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container in a cool place for 3–5 days.

• Refrigerator: Keep for up to 2–3 weeks in an airtight container.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2–3 months.

• Serving: Allow refrigerated clusters to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before eating.

Allergen Information

• Peanuts: Main ingredient.

• Dairy: May be present in milk chocolate.

• Soy: May be present in chocolate lecithin.

• Tree nuts: Not required by this recipe, but check cross-contamination warnings.

• Gluten: Usually gluten-free when certified ingredients are used.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Important: Peanuts are legumes, not botanical tree nuts, but they are a major allergen. This recipe is NOT peanut-free. Check chocolate packaging for possible tree-nut cross-contact.

Enjoy your homemade crunchy Chocolate Peanut Clusters!