Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters because they're a delightful treat that combines my favorite flavors. The creamy chocolate melds beautifully with the crunch of peanuts and the chewiness of coconut, creating a perfect bite-sized indulgence. Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also make for a great gift or party snack. These clusters are always a hit, and I find that they satisfy my sweet cravings while providing a satisfying crunch. They capture my love for chocolate and the added texture of coconut and peanuts is simply irresistible!
During one of my weekend baking sessions, I decided to experiment with some ingredients I had on hand: chocolate, coconut, and peanuts. I wanted to create a treat that was not only easy to make but also had a satisfying texture and flavor. The result was these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, which were an immediate hit with my family. I love how the combination of flavors works together seamlessly!
What I found particularly interesting was how the temperatures of the melted chocolate and the toasted peanuts affected the final texture. By letting the peanuts cool a bit before mixing, I achieved clusters that held together beautifully. This little tip made a huge difference in the end product, and it’s something I always recommend to fellow chocolate lovers!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy peanuts
- Chewy coconut adds delightful texture
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings
The Importance of Quality Chocolate
When making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, the chocolate quality significantly influences the overall flavor. I recommend using high-quality chocolate chips with a cocoa content of at least 60% for a rich taste. Always check the label for added ingredients; high-quality chocolates typically have minimal additives. Melting chocolate should be done gently to avoid scorching. Stirring frequently while heating ensures a smooth, glossy finish, making it easier to coat the peanuts and coconut evenly.
For those who prefer a sweeter or more milk-forward flavor, consider using milk chocolate chips instead, but remember that the clusters may be less rich. Dark chocolate offers a more intense flavor that balances well with the sweetness of the coconut and peanuts. Regardless of your choice, avoid chocolate chips with added wax; they won’t melt properly and may result in a grainy texture.
Perfecting the Cluster Form
Shaping your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters is an essential step to achieving that perfect bite. Use a medium-sized spoon to take uniform portions; this will help maintain consistency in size and ensure even set time. If desired, you can use a cookie scoop for perfectly rounded clusters. Aim for a tablespoon-sized portion for easy snacking, but feel free to adjust the size based on personal preference or serving needs.
When dropping the mixture onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, leave enough space between the clusters. This allows them to cool and harden evenly without merging into one another. The ideal shape should be slightly mound-like, ensuring that the clusters maintain their form as they set in the refrigerator. Keep an eye on them while chilling—if they become overly firm, you can microwave them for a few seconds to loosen before reshaping.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters Ingredients
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
Mix these ingredients for a perfect treat!
Instructions
Instructions
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the melted chocolate, shredded coconut, and roasted peanuts. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Form Clusters
Using a spoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and drop them onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet to form clusters.
Chill and Set
Refrigerate the clusters for about 15 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened.
Enjoy!
Once set, enjoy your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters as a tasty snack or treat!
These clusters are perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
Pro Tips
- For an added touch, try sprinkling some flaky sea salt on top of the clusters before chilling for an extra flavor contrast.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them a fantastic option for meal prep or last-minute gift giving. If you need to keep them fresh for a longer period, consider freezing them. Layer clusters between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, where they can last up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature.
To ensure they remain chocolatey delicious, avoid storing them in humid areas, as coconut can absorb moisture and may lead to unwanted texture changes. If you're intending to offer them as a gift, consider packaging them in a decorative box or cellophane bag, keeping the flavor protected while adding a personal touch.
Creative Variations to Try
Feel free to customize your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters with additional mix-ins. For a fruity twist, try adding dried cranberries or cherries. Chopped pretzels can introduce a salty crunch, balancing the sweetness of the chocolate and coconut. If you’re a fan of spice, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile and add an unexpected kick.
You could also explore dairy-free versions by opting for dairy-free chocolate chips and using unsweetened coconut for a lower-sugar snack. Another fun idea is to roll the clusters in crushed nuts or additional coconut flakes before they set, giving them an extra visual appeal and crunch. Each variation can render this treat uniquely yours while preserving the original recipe's charm.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate; it will make the clusters sweeter and creamier.
→ How long do these clusters last?
They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I add other nuts or ingredients?
Absolutely! You can mix in any nuts or even dried fruits for a different flavor profile.
→ Are these clusters suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, as long as you use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil, they're vegan-friendly.
Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters because they're a delightful treat that combines my favorite flavors. The creamy chocolate melds beautifully with the crunch of peanuts and the chewiness of coconut, creating a perfect bite-sized indulgence. Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also make for a great gift or party snack. These clusters are always a hit, and I find that they satisfy my sweet cravings while providing a satisfying crunch. They capture my love for chocolate and the added texture of coconut and peanuts is simply irresistible!
Created by: Hayley Morton
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 20 clusters
What You'll Need
Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters Ingredients
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
How-To Steps
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, add the melted chocolate, shredded coconut, and roasted peanuts. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Using a spoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and drop them onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet to form clusters.
Refrigerate the clusters for about 15 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened.
Once set, enjoy your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters as a tasty snack or treat!
Extra Tips
- For an added touch, try sprinkling some flaky sea salt on top of the clusters before chilling for an extra flavor contrast.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 2g