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If you have a sweet tooth that craves a perfect blend of rich chocolate and crunchy peanuts, you are going to fall head over heels for this Chocolate Peanut Clusters Recipe. This delightful treat is a beautiful harmony of silky tempered dark chocolate enveloping roasted peanuts, punctuated with just the right amount of salt and a hint of espresso to elevate the flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to indulge in a homemade confection, these clusters are irresistibly simple yet packed with bold, sophisticated taste that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Chocolate Peanut Clusters Recipe lies in the quality and simplicity of its ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in crafting the perfect texture, gloss, and flavor depth that makes these clusters truly special.
- 12 ounces dark chocolate, chopped: Choose rich dark chocolate with a high cocoa content for a deep, luxurious flavor and smooth texture.
- 1 tablespoon cocoa butter, chopped: Adds a glossy finish and helps with the tempering process for that perfect snap.
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste, enhancing its complexity.
- 2 cups dry-roasted peanuts: Provides crunchy, salty contrast to the smooth chocolate and a satisfyingly nutty bite.
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil: Helps keep the chocolate silky and adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the peanuts.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Creates tiny air bubbles for a lighter, crunchier texture in the clusters.
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt flakes, plus extra for topping: Brings out the sweetness of the chocolate while balancing flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the overall flavor profile.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Clusters Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Start by lining a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This step will keep your clusters from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Using a rimmed sheet is key to keeping the clusters contained as they set, so you don’t end up chasing rogue chocolate bits around your kitchen.
Step 2: Temper the Chocolate
This is the heart of the Chocolate Peanut Clusters Recipe and what gives the clusters that gorgeous glossy finish and satisfying snap. Melt the dark chocolate and cocoa butter together gently over a double boiler until smooth. Carefully monitor the temperature with a candy thermometer: warm to 115°F, cool down to 82°F, then gently reheat to 88°F. This precise tempering prevents bloom and ensures your clusters will have an irresistible shine and pristine texture.
Step 3: Mix in Flavor Enhancers
Once your chocolate is perfectly tempered, stir in the espresso powder, peanut oil, and vanilla extract. These ingredients not only boost the flavor profile by adding complexity and silkiness but also help maintain a smooth chocolate coating that clings lovingly to every peanut.
Step 4: Fold in the Peanuts and Baking Soda
Gently incorporate the dry-roasted peanuts and baking soda into the chocolate mixture. The key here is to coat every peanut evenly with chocolate while allowing the baking soda to create those delightful tiny air pockets, giving your clusters a lighter and crunchier texture. It’s this little baking soda addition that makes your clusters feel so special and addictive.
Step 5: Form the Clusters and Add the Finishing Touch
Using two spoons, scoop out generous 1-inch mounds of the chocolate-peanut mixture onto your prepared sheet. Keep about an inch of space between each cluster. Immediately sprinkle a few extra sea salt flakes on top—this step is crucial to achieving that perfect sweet and salty harmony that keeps these clusters unforgettable.
Step 6: Chill and Store
Pop the baking sheet into the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes until the clusters feel firm to the touch. Once set, carefully transfer them to an airtight container, layering between parchment paper sheets for ease of removal later. They can stay fresh in the freezer up to four weeks or refrigerated for five days. When you’re ready to snack, let them sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before enjoying to get the ideal texture and melt-in-your-mouth experience.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Clusters Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes elevates the visual appeal and flavor. Try a light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of white chocolate to contrast the dark chocolate. A few extra sea salt flakes on top not only taste amazing but also create that eye-catching sparkle.
Side Dishes
These clusters pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas. For an adult twist, consider serving them with a glass of full-bodied red wine or a rich espresso—both complement the chocolate and peanut flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or parties, arrange your clusters in decorative paper cups or stack them neatly on a platter lined with parchment. You can also create little cluster lollipops by inserting mini sticks before chilling. These little touches make the Chocolate Peanut Clusters Recipe feel like a special occasion treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days for best texture and flavor, perfect for quick snacking or last-minute dessert needs.
Freezing
Freezing these clusters extends their shelf life up to four weeks while keeping them fresh. Just pack them in an airtight container and thaw at room temperature briefly before enjoying—easy and convenient for anytime indulgence.
Reheating
If your clusters have come straight from the freezer, let them sit at room temperature for 2 to 5 minutes before eating. This brings out the full flavor and softness without melting the chocolate completely, preserving that satisfying crunch.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate in the Chocolate Peanut Clusters Recipe?
Absolutely! While dark chocolate offers a rich, intense flavor, milk chocolate can give your clusters a creamier, sweeter profile. Just keep an eye on tempering temperatures as milk chocolate melts differently and tends to have more sugar content.
Why is tempering the chocolate necessary?
Tempering stabilizes the chocolate’s cocoa butter crystals, resulting in a glossy finish and a crisp snap. Without tempering, your clusters might look dull and develop white streaks known as “bloom,” which affect texture and presentation.
What does the baking soda do in this recipe?
Baking soda introduces tiny air pockets into the chocolate mixture, making each cluster lighter and crunchier rather than dense. It’s a subtle but game-changing addition that adds lovely texture contrast.
Can I substitute peanuts with other nuts?
Yes! Feel free to swap in almonds, cashews, or pecans based on your preference. Just remember that the flavor and texture will shift, so pick nuts you love and that pair well with chocolate.
How long can I store these clusters at room temperature?
Because of the tempered chocolate and the peanut oil, these clusters should be stored in the fridge or freezer. At room temperature, they may soften or melt, especially in warmer climates. Refrigeration preserves their shape and texture best.
Final Thoughts
Making this Chocolate Peanut Clusters Recipe is like creating a little batch of magic that’s surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. With just a handful of ingredients and some careful steps, you get a luxurious confection that’s both nostalgic and gourmet. Whether for yourself or as a thoughtful homemade gift, these clusters are sure to brighten any day and satisfy your chocolate and peanut cravings like nothing else. Go ahead and give it a try—you won’t regret it!
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Chocolate Peanut Clusters Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these rich and crunchy Chocolate Peanut Clusters, featuring perfectly tempered dark chocolate blended with espresso, peanut oil, and vanilla for enhanced flavor and glossy finish. Coated with dry-roasted peanuts and a hint of sea salt, these bite-sized treats offer a sweet-savory contrast and a satisfyingly light texture, achieved with a touch of baking soda. Ready in just 30 minutes, they make an ideal snack or gift stored conveniently in the freezer or fridge.
Ingredients
Chocolate Mixture
- 12 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon cocoa butter, chopped
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt flakes, plus extra for topping
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Nuts
- 2 cups dry-roasted peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to contain the clusters as they set.
- Temper the chocolate: Melt dark chocolate and cocoa butter together in a heatproof bowl over gently simmering water (double boiler). Stir until smooth and melted. Using a candy thermometer, heat to 115°F, then remove from heat and stir continuously until cooled to 82°F. Briefly rewarm to 88°F to complete tempering for a glossy finish.
- Add flavorings: Stir in espresso powder, peanut oil, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated to deepen flavor and maintain smoothness.
- Combine peanuts and baking soda: Gently fold in dry-roasted peanuts and baking soda into the tempered chocolate, ensuring peanuts are well-coated. Baking soda introduces tiny air pockets for a lighter, crunchier texture.
- Form clusters: Drop 1-inch mounds of the chocolate-peanut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet using two spoons, spacing about 1 inch apart. Immediately sprinkle extra sea salt flakes on top for sweet-savory balance.
- Set the clusters: Freeze the baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes until clusters are firm. Transfer to an airtight container, layering between parchment paper. Store in the freezer up to four weeks or refrigerator up to five days. Allow clusters to sit at room temperature for 2 minutes before serving for easier removal.
Notes
- Tempering the chocolate properly is essential to achieve a shiny finish and prevent blooming.
- Using dry-roasted peanuts adds an extra crunch and flavor depth.
- The baking soda creates a lighter texture by forming air pockets in the clusters.
- Clusters can be stored frozen for longer shelf life or refrigerated for immediate enjoyment.
- Allow them to warm slightly at room temperature before eating for optimal texture and flavor.
