Description
Sweet chocolate and crunchy peanuts combine in these irresistible Peanut Clusters, a classic treat perfect for holiday gifting or satisfying midnight cravings. Melted chocolate and roasted peanuts create a simple yet delightful confection you’ll want to share with friends and family.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted)
- 1.5 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk/dark chocolate)
Binding/Melting Ingredients:
- 0.5 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for a swirl effect)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (for smooth melting)
Flavoring Ingredients:
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.25 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Create a smooth chocolate base by gently melting semi-sweet chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring between 30-second intervals until completely liquid and glossy. Incorporate vanilla extract for enhanced flavor depth.
- Fold roasted peanuts into the molten chocolate mixture, ensuring each nut becomes thoroughly enrobed in the rich, silky coating.
- Using a spoon, carefully deposit generous dollops of the chocolate-peanut blend onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing each cluster to form a rustic, organic shape.
- For an elegant finish, delicately drizzle white chocolate over the clusters, creating intricate patterns that add visual appeal and complementary sweetness.
- Enhance the flavor profile by sprinkling a light dusting of flaky sea salt across the clusters, which will balance the chocolate’s richness and provide a subtle crunch.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and allow the clusters to set completely, approximately 30 minutes, until they become firm and maintain their distinctive shape.
- Once solidified, transfer the peanut clusters to an airtight container, where they can be stored at room temperature for one week or refrigerated for up to three weeks, preserving their delectable texture and flavor.
Notes
- Choose high-quality chocolate for a richer, more luxurious flavor that elevates the entire dessert.
- Use roasted peanuts with no added salt to control the seasoning and prevent overwhelming saltiness.
- Experiment with different chocolate varieties like dark, milk, or white to create unique flavor profiles and customize the clusters.
- Line the baking sheet with a silicone mat for easier removal and a smoother bottom surface on the clusters.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 75 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg