Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters for a sweet indulgence! They are the ultimate combination of rich chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and chewy coconut. Preparation is a breeze—just melt, mix, and chill. Each bite is a delightful surprise, perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a mid-afternoon treat. The best part? They require minimal ingredients and no baking, making them a fun, quick treat that satisfies my sweet tooth while being versatile enough to customize with my favorite nuts or dried fruits.
When I first tried making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying they were. The combination of flavors and textures was an immediate hit, and it quickly became one of my go-to recipes for gatherings. I love experimenting with different toppings, and using dark chocolate really elevates the clusters to a whole new level.
A key tip I've learned is to let the clusters set in the fridge for a bit longer than the recommended time. This helps them firm up perfectly, ensuring every bite is a delight without any crumbly surprises. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh coconut
- Crunchy peanuts add a delightful texture
- No baking required, quick and easy to prepare
The Role of Coconut and Peanuts
In this recipe, unsweetened shredded coconut is not just a delicious addition; it plays a crucial role in balancing the sweetness of the chocolate. The slight chewiness of the coconut complements the creamy chocolate, creating a delightful mouthfeel. Opting for unsweetened coconut helps avoid overpowering the overall flavor and keeps the clusters from becoming overly sweet.
Roasted peanuts introduce a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chocolate and chewy coconut. Their savory, nutty flavor enhances the clusters and makes every bite enjoyable. If you’re looking for a variation, consider using salted peanuts for an extra burst of flavor or swapping them out for your favorite nuts like almonds or cashews.
Customizing Your Clusters
One of the fun aspects of making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters is the ability to customize the ingredients. You can easily incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and a pop of color, or mix in seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra nutrition. Just be sure that any additional ingredients are roughly chopped to ensure they mix well without overwhelming the clusters.
If you're looking for a different flavor profile, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the chocolate mixture. These small adjustments can create a unique twist on the classic cluster, making them personalized to your taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination!
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters:
Ingredients
- 1 cup chocolate chips (dark or milk)
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Pinch of sea salt
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to whip up your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters:
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
Mix the Ingredients
Once the chocolate is melted, remove it from the microwave and stir in shredded coconut and roasted peanuts until evenly coated.
Form the Clusters
Using a tablespoon, scoop out the mixture and place it onto a lined baking sheet. Shape into clusters, leaving some space in between each.
Chill to Set
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes, or until the clusters are firm.
Serve and Enjoy
Once set, serve the clusters immediately or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Enjoy your clusters as a treat any time of the day!
Pro Tips
- For a twist, add some chopped dried fruits or nuts to the mixture before forming the clusters to personalize them to your taste.
Storage and Shelf Life
Once your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters are set, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keeping them chilled helps to maintain their texture and flavor. If you find that they begin to lose their crunch, simply allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
If you want to prepare these clusters in advance, you can make a batch and freeze them for future snacking. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months, and you can enjoy them directly from the freezer for a cool treat.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your chocolate isn’t melting smoothly, it may be due to high heat. Microwave in smaller intervals and stir frequently to prevent overheating. Overheated chocolate can seize and become grainy, so always monitor the process closely. A few drops of coconut oil help maintain a smooth consistency, making it easier to mix in the other ingredients.
Should the clusters not hold together after chilling, the mixture might have been too dry. Ensure that the shredded coconut and peanuts are evenly coated in chocolate before scooping. If necessary, gently reheat the mixture and add a bit more melted chocolate or coconut oil to bind it better.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with almonds, cashews, or even mixed nuts for a unique flavor.
→ How long do these clusters last?
They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Just use dairy-free chocolate chips and check that your coconut oil is refined.
→ What can I serve these with?
They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or as a sweet treat at a dessert table.
Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters for a sweet indulgence! They are the ultimate combination of rich chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and chewy coconut. Preparation is a breeze—just melt, mix, and chill. Each bite is a delightful surprise, perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a mid-afternoon treat. The best part? They require minimal ingredients and no baking, making them a fun, quick treat that satisfies my sweet tooth while being versatile enough to customize with my favorite nuts or dried fruits.
Created by: Lila Morgan
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 clusters
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup chocolate chips (dark or milk)
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Pinch of sea salt
How-To Steps
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
Once the chocolate is melted, remove it from the microwave and stir in shredded coconut and roasted peanuts until evenly coated.
Using a tablespoon, scoop out the mixture and place it onto a lined baking sheet. Shape into clusters, leaving some space in between each.
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes, or until the clusters are firm.
Once set, serve the clusters immediately or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Extra Tips
- For a twist, add some chopped dried fruits or nuts to the mixture before forming the clusters to personalize them to your taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 4g