Chocolate Peanut Clusters
These Chocolate Peanut Clusters are a simple, no-bake treat that combine the rich sweetness of chocolate with the crunch of peanuts. Perfect for a quick snack, holiday treats, or to satisfy your chocolate cravings in just minutes. You only need a few ingredients, and they come together in a flash!
Ingredients:
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2 cups salted peanuts (roasted or unsalted, depending on preference)
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12 oz (about 2 cups) semisweet or milk chocolate chips (or a mix of both)
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1 cup creamy peanut butter
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1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
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A pinch of sea salt (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
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Melt the Chocolate:
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In a heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter.
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Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate and peanut butter are completely melted and smooth. You can also melt the chocolate and peanut butter together using a double boiler over medium heat.
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Mix in the Peanuts:
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Once the chocolate and peanut butter are melted, add the salted peanuts to the bowl and stir until they are evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
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Scoop the Clusters:
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Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the chocolate-peanut mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or wax paper. You can make the clusters as big or as small as you like.
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Make sure the peanuts are well-distributed, and each cluster has a good mix of chocolate and peanuts.
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Chill to Set:
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Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30-45 minutes, or until the chocolate has set and the clusters are firm.
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Serve:
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Once the chocolate has hardened, remove the clusters from the parchment paper and serve. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each cluster for a sweet-and-salty twist.
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Optional Variations:
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Add-ins: You can mix in other ingredients like raisins, dried cranberries, or even mini marshmallows for extra texture and flavor.
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Use dark chocolate: For a richer, more intense flavor, use dark chocolate or bittersweet chocolate instead of milk chocolate.
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Drizzle: You can drizzle some melted white chocolate over the clusters for an extra touch of sweetness and decoration.
Enjoy your Chocolate Peanut Clusters! These bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing at parties, packing in lunchboxes, or just keeping on hand for whenever the sweet tooth hits.
Let me know if you try them! They’re super customizable depending on your preferences.
