Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love treating myself to something special, and these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters have become a go-to indulgence. The combination of creamy chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and aromatic coconut creates a mouth-watering treat that’s impossible to resist. They are so simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of my time. Whether I’m celebrating a special occasion or just in the mood for something sweet, these clusters always hit the spot and bring a little joy to my day.
While experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon the idea of combining chocolate with coconut and peanuts. This combination not only tastes amazing, but it also provides a satisfying crunch that makes every bite enjoyable. I’ve learned that using high-quality chocolate really elevates the flavor and creates a luscious coating that hugs the clusters perfectly.
One specific tip I recommend is to let the clusters cool on parchment paper so they don't stick together. This method ensures they maintain their shape and remain easy to serve. I especially love making these with friends; they’re perfect for sharing and always disappear quickly!
Why You'll Love These Clusters
- Rich chocolate flavor balanced with the crunch of peanuts
- Naturally sweet and chewy coconut adds a tropical twist
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute treats
Understanding the Ingredients
The beauty of these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters lies in their simplicity, thanks to just four main ingredients. The semi-sweet chocolate chips are essential for providing a rich, decadent flavor that beautifully contrasts with the crunchy peanuts. When selecting chocolate, look for chips with a high cocoa content for deeper flavor. Brand matters too; a quality chocolate will melt smoothly and coat the other ingredients evenly, which is crucial for both texture and taste.
Unsweetened shredded coconut plays a pivotal role in this treat, adding both sweetness and texture. It is best to use finely shredded coconut, as it blends into the chocolate mixture seamlessly. However, you can also use flaked coconut if you prefer a chunkier bite. Make sure to toast the coconut lightly in a pan for a few minutes if you want an even richer coconut flavor, as toasting brings out its natural oils and enhances the aroma.
Mastering the Technique
Melting the chocolate correctly is key to a smooth texture. I recommend using medium power on your microwave, as high heat can cause the chocolate to seize. Stirring every 30 seconds ensures even melting—stop once it's glossy and thoroughly smooth. If using a double boiler, be cautious that water doesn’t touch the bowl with chocolate to prevent it from becoming grainy.
When forming the clusters, use a cookie scoop or two spoons to keep the portions even. This helps them to set uniformly, leading to consistent texture and flavor in every bite. For added ease, occasionally dip the scoop in warm water to prevent sticking. The clusters should be about one tablespoon each for perfect bite-sized treats, so don’t hesitate to adjust sizes based on your preference.
Ingredients
For the Clusters
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Combine Ingredients
Once the chocolate is melted, add the shredded coconut and peanuts to the bowl. Stir until everything is well-coated in the chocolate mixture.
Shape the Clusters
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture and form clusters on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the clusters for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate has set. Once firm, enjoy your delicious Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters!
Pro Tips
- For an added twist, try adding chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to the mixture before forming clusters.
Storage Tips
These clusters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. If your kitchen is warm, consider refrigerating them to maintain their shape and chocolate coating. When properly stored, the clusters hold their flavor and texture, meaning you can enjoy them for days without compromising quality.
For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. Place the clusters in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them initially, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just allow them to come to room temperature before indulging!
Delicious Variations
Feel free to customize the clusters based on your preferences! Swap out the peanuts for other nuts like almonds, cashews, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each nut brings a distinct flavor that can change the overall profile of your clusters while maintaining that crunch.
You can also experiment with flavor add-ins—consider a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling for a sweet-salty combination, or drizzle extra melted chocolate over the clusters after they’ve set for added decadence. Another fun twist is to incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture contrast, taking these clusters to a new level of deliciousness!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate works great and will give you a richer flavor!
→ How long can I store these clusters?
You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the peanuts with almonds or cashews for a different flavor.
→ Is there a way to make these clusters vegan?
Yes, you can use dairy-free chocolate chips and make sure the coconut oil is refined if you prefer.
Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
I love treating myself to something special, and these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters have become a go-to indulgence. The combination of creamy chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and aromatic coconut creates a mouth-watering treat that’s impossible to resist. They are so simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of my time. Whether I’m celebrating a special occasion or just in the mood for something sweet, these clusters always hit the spot and bring a little joy to my day.
Created by: Jocelyn Parker
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 clusters
What You'll Need
For the Clusters
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
How-To Steps
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Once the chocolate is melted, add the shredded coconut and peanuts to the bowl. Stir until everything is well-coated in the chocolate mixture.
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture and form clusters on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate the clusters for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate has set. Once firm, enjoy your delicious Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters!
Extra Tips
- For an added twist, try adding chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to the mixture before forming clusters.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 4g