Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I find immense joy in creating delicious treats, and these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters always hit the spot. The combination of rich chocolate, flaky coconut, and crunchy peanuts makes for a delightful snack that's hard to resist. Whether I'm entertaining guests or just indulging myself, these clusters are simple to whip up and provide that perfect sweet crunch. Plus, they are a fun way to satisfy my chocolate cravings without going overboard. Trust me, you won’t be able to have just one!
When I first attempted these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, I was surprised by how quickly they came together. The best part is melting the chocolate just enough to coat the peanuts and coconut, ensuring that every cluster is full of flavor. I recommend using high-quality chocolate to enhance the overall taste of the treat.
After several batches, I found that allowing the clusters to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to the fridge helps them set perfectly. This little tip guarantees a firmer texture that enhances the eating experience. They’ve become my go-to treat for casual gatherings or an after-meal sweet bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet coconut and crunchy peanuts
- Simple to make with just a handful of ingredients
- Perfect for gifting or grabbing on-the-go
Choosing the Right Chocolate
Selecting the right chocolate is crucial for the flavor and texture of your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters. I recommend using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips, as they melt beautifully and provide that rich, sweet flavor that complements the peanuts and coconut perfectly. If you prefer a darker taste, you can opt for bittersweet or dark chocolate, but keep in mind that it will alter the overall sweetness of the clusters.
Melting chocolate can sometimes lead to seizing if overheated. To ensure a smooth consistency, melt in short bursts—about 30 seconds at a time—stirring well between intervals. If you're in a pinch, you can also use a double boiler; just be careful to keep water from splashing into the chocolate.
Texture and Flavor Balance
The combination of crunchy peanuts and chewy coconut provides an exciting contrast in texture. The peanuts add a pleasing crunch, while the shredded coconut brings a light, chewy element. To further enhance the flavor, consider lightly toasting the shredded coconut in a dry skillet for a few minutes until golden brown. This adds depth and a lovely aroma that rounds out the overall experience of the clusters.
If you find yourself wanting to mix things up, feel free to swap out the peanuts for other nuts like almonds or cashews. Just ensure that they are roasted and salted to match the flavor intensity and crunchy texture. You could also try adding in a few mini marshmallows or dried fruit for extra sweetness and variety.
Ingredients
Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup roasted salted peanuts
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Mixing these ingredients together creates the perfect treat!
Instructions
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the roasted peanuts and shredded coconut. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut-coconut mixture and stir until everything is coated well.
Shape the Clusters
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Try to form them into small clusters.
Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the clusters for about 10-15 minutes or until the chocolate hardens. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters!
These clusters can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Pro Tips
- Experiment with adding dried fruit or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor profile.
Storage Tips
Once you’ve enjoyed your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, storing them properly is key to keeping them fresh. Place the clusters in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dry spot. They can last up to a week at room temperature, or for an even longer shelf life, refrigerate them where they’ll keep for about two weeks.
If you choose to freeze your clusters for later enjoyment, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, simply let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters make for great party snacks or delightful treats to keep on hand for cravings. Serve them on a whimsical platter or in decorative bags for gifts that will impress friends and family. They’re also fantastic paired with coffee or tea, providing a satisfying balance of sweetness and crunch alongside your favorite beverage.
For a bit of fun, consider drizzling some additional melted chocolate over the clusters before serving. This creates a lovely decorative touch, and you can even sprinkle some sea salt on top to enhance the flavors further. The visual appeal and added crunch from the salt make these clusters even more irresistible!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate will give a richer flavor and is a great alternative.
→ How long do these clusters last?
They can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
→ Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
Absolutely! You can substitute with almonds, cashews, or any nut of your choice.
→ Is it necessary to use coconut oil?
While not strictly necessary, coconut oil helps the chocolate to melt smoothly and coat the mixture better.
Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
I find immense joy in creating delicious treats, and these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters always hit the spot. The combination of rich chocolate, flaky coconut, and crunchy peanuts makes for a delightful snack that's hard to resist. Whether I'm entertaining guests or just indulging myself, these clusters are simple to whip up and provide that perfect sweet crunch. Plus, they are a fun way to satisfy my chocolate cravings without going overboard. Trust me, you won’t be able to have just one!
Created by: Maribel Hayes
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 clusters
What You'll Need
Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup roasted salted peanuts
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
How-To Steps
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
In a large bowl, mix together the roasted peanuts and shredded coconut. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut-coconut mixture and stir until everything is coated well.
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Try to form them into small clusters.
Refrigerate the clusters for about 10-15 minutes or until the chocolate hardens. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters!
Extra Tips
- Experiment with adding dried fruit or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor profile.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 21g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 4g