Chocolate Peanut Clusters
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Chocolate Peanut Clusters are one of the easiest homemade candies you can make, and taste just as good as the ones from a fancy candy shop! Make a batch for yourself, or wrap them up for holiday gifts and watch the smiles appear. 😀
Why You'll Crave This Candy!
- Quick and simple: Ready in minutes with just a few ingredients.
- Sweet and salty: A classic chocolate and salted peanut combo.
- Perfect for gifting: Makes great Christmas gifts or party favors.
Don't worry if you've never made homemade chocolate before, there's no need for a candy thermometer in this recipe and the instructions are super easy. This peanut cluster recipe only takes a few minutes to prepare and looks irresistible once the candy has set!
I like to scoop the clusters with a small cookie scoop and drop them onto wax paper for quick cleanup. The smell of melted chocolate fills the kitchen, and before you know it, you've got a tray of sweet peanut clusters that everyone's reaching for!
Love homemade candy? Try my easy recipe for Chocolate Fudge that also makes great gifts, or these classic Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls that are smooth and creamy. Combine all 3 treats for a dessert tray like no other!
Ingredient Notes
Below are the ingredients you'll need to make this recipe. For quantities, see the printable recipe card.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips work perfectly in this recipe and provide a classic chocolate flavor.
- Butterscotch Chips: Melts smooth and adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
- Unsalted Peanuts: Brings the crunch. If using salted peanuts, leave out the extra salt.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
Step by Step Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add the chocolate and butterscotch chips to a saucepan.
- Melt the chips on the lowest heat, stirring constantly until creamy and smooth.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the salt and peanuts until they're completely covered.
- Scoop out 2 tablespoons of the covered peanuts and place on the parchment lined baking sheet. Repeat until you have about 22 clusters. Chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes, or until firm.
Favorite Pairings
- Cold Milk: The classic combo that never fails with chocolate candy.
- Hot Cocoa: A cup of cocoa on the side turns these clusters into an easy afternoon treat.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Crumble a couple of clusters over ice cream for a quick and easy sundae.
Variations
- Chocolate Options: Use dark chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or white chocolate chips for different flavors.
- Different Nuts: Try cashews, almonds, or pecans instead of peanuts.
- Rocky Road Style: Add mini marshmallows for a rocky road twist.
Helpful Tips
- Melt chocolate slowly over low heat for the best texture.
- If using the microwave method, heat in 10 to 15 second bursts, stirring between each.
- A little water can ruin the texture, so melt the chocolate in a clean, dry bowl.
- Chill long enough for the clusters to set completely before storing.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use salted peanuts?
Yes, just skip the added salt in the recipe.
Can I melt the chocolate in the microwave instead of on the stove?
Absolutely. Use short intervals and stir often until smooth.
Will this work in a double boiler?
Yes, it is a gentle and reliable way to melt chocolate evenly.
Storage Guide
Leftovers: Let the chocolate peanut clusters set completely before storing. If you're in a hurry, place them on a baking sheet in the fridge to help them firm up faster.
Room Temperature: Store the cooled clusters in an airtight container for up to one week. If stacking them, separate layers with parchment paper so they don't stick together. They'll stay soft and melt-in-your-mouth at room temperature.
Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to two weeks. The clusters will be slightly firmer and may need a few minutes to soften before enjoying.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the clusters in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
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Recipe Card
Chocolate Peanut Clusters
*See notes in blog post for detailed tips, photos and instructions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 2 cups unsalted peanuts
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add the chocolate and butterscotch chips to a saucepan.
- Melt the chips on the lowest heat, stirring constantly until creamy and smooth.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the salt and peanuts until they're completely covered.
- Scoop out 2 tablespoons of the covered peanuts and place on the parchment lined baking sheet. Repeat until you have 12 clusters. Chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes, or until firm.
Notes
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- You can use a microwave instead of a saucepan on the stove for this recipe. You will want to heat the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips in a microwave safe dish in 10-15 second increments, stirring each time, until melted and smooth. Be careful to not heat for more than 15 seconds at a time, to prevent 'burning' the chocolate.
- Store clusters in the freezer, fridge, or at room temperature. They last at room temperature for up to 1 week and are melt in your mouth soft, chocolatey, and delicious at room temperature, with the same hardness as slightly softened chocolate chips. Or, store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, where they will be slightly harder and you may need to thaw for a few minutes before enjoying. If stored in the freezer, be sure to thaw before eating.
Nutrition
Nutrition info is an auto generated estimate.
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