Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters

Name: Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 24 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups of roasted peanuts; 1 cup of shredded coconut; 12 oz of dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon of coconut oil; Sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, especially when I want a quick and indulgent treat. Combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the crunch of peanuts and the sweetness of coconut makes for a delightful combination that satisfies my cravings. It's a simple recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover ingredients in your pantry. Join me in whipping up these delicious clusters that are perfect for snacking or sharing!

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:58:12.940Z

When I first decided to make these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, I didn't expect them to be so delightful. I tried them after a long day and found that the creamy chocolate paired beautifully with the crunchiness of the peanuts, creating a delightful experience in every bite. As they set, the smell wafted through my kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a sample!

One specific tip I found useful is to lightly toast the peanuts before mixing them in. This intensifies their flavor and adds an extra layer of richness. Each cluster comes together beautifully, and it’s a joy to watch them transform in the refrigerator. Trust me; this is a treat you won't forget!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich combination of chocolate, coconut, and peanuts
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
Perfect for snacking, gifting, or celebrations

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of roasted peanuts, shredded coconut, and dark chocolate creates a symphony of flavors and textures in the Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters. Roasted peanuts provide a deep, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch, while shredded coconut adds a sweet, chewy element that complements the richness of the dark chocolate. When choosing your peanuts, opt for unsalted ones to control the flavor balance, allowing you to adjust saltiness as needed during the finishing touches.

Dark chocolate is the star of this recipe; its bitterness beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of coconut. For those who prefer milk chocolate, you can substitute it, but know it will change the overall flavor profile. Additionally, using chocolate with at least 70% cocoa ensures a rich, satisfying base. Feel free to explore using different types of chocolate, such as semi-sweet or even white chocolate, if you're looking for a unique twist!

Mastering the Technique

Melting the chocolate properly is crucial to achieving a smooth, glossy finish for your clusters. Avoid overheating by using short 30-second bursts in the microwave, stirring thoroughly between each interval. This method helps prevent the chocolate from seizing, which can happen if it's exposed to too much heat at once. When done, the chocolate should be smooth and shiny, ready to envelop your peanuts and coconut.

When forming the clusters, aim for uniform size so that they set evenly and make for a more appealing presentation. Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop can help you portion the mixture consistently. If you find that the chocolate starts to harden before you've formed all your clusters, give it a quick 10-15 second zap in the microwave to soften it up again. Remember, the key to great clusters is ensuring that each piece is coated well with chocolate before setting them on parchment.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters

2 cups of roasted peanuts
1 cup of shredded coconut
12 oz of dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon of coconut oil
Sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Mix Ingredients

Once the chocolate is melted, add the roasted peanuts and shredded coconut to the bowl, stirring well to coat all the ingredients evenly in chocolate.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can shape them into clusters as desired.

Let Them Set

Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top if desired, and place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until the chocolate is set.

Serve and Enjoy

Once set, remove the clusters from the parchment paper and store them in an airtight container. Enjoy these delightful snacks anytime!

For best results, keep clusters refrigerated.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor twist, try adding a dash of vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture before combining with the peanuts and coconut.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a warmer climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain firmness. If you're planning to make these ahead for events or gifts, you can also freeze them. Place the clusters in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just note that the texture might slightly change after thawing.

If you want to gift these clusters, consider adding a layer of decorative tissue paper in the container to keep them looking appealing. A simple label can enhance the presentation and show off your creativity. For a personal touch, you might even want to include a note with intended serving suggestions, such as pairing them with coffee or using them in snack mix.

Variations to Try

You can easily modify this recipe to introduce new flavors and textures. Consider adding in a tsp of vanilla extract to the melted chocolate for an aromatic enhancement. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can provide a burst of sweetness and a chewy contrast to the crunchy peanuts and solid chocolate. Mix in a handful of mini marshmallows for a fun, playful twist that adds extra sweetness and texture.

For a spicier kick, try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili powder into the chocolate mixture. This unexpected hint of heat can elevate the clusters from ordinary to extraordinary. Additionally, if you're avoiding peanuts, feel free to substitute with other nuts like almonds or cashews; just note that different nuts will lend distinct flavors and textures, making the clusters uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor; just keep an eye on the melting process as it can vary.

→ How do I store the clusters?

Store the clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I substitute the peanuts for another nut?

Absolutely! Almonds, cashews, or any nut of your choice work great in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to make these clusters vegan?

Yes, just ensure that you use dairy-free chocolate chips and verify that the coconut and other ingredients are vegan-friendly.