Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters

Name: Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup roasted unsalted peanuts; 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters for a quick and delicious treat. There’s something incredibly satisfying about combining crunchy peanuts with creamy chocolate and a hint of coconut. This recipe is not only easy to whip up, but it also satisfies my sweet cravings without being too indulgent. Whether it's for a movie night or an afternoon snack, these clusters bring a delightful combination of flavors that are hard to resist. Let's dive into this mouthwatering treat that’s sure to impress everyone!

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:22:13.034Z

When I first tried making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create an irresistible treat. The combination of roasted peanuts, creamy chocolate, and shredded coconut not only tasted incredible but created a beautiful contrast in texture. I experimented with dark chocolate for a richer flavor, and it turned out to be the perfect touch that balanced the sweetness.

One of the tricks I learned is to allow the chocolate to cool slightly after melting. This ensures that the clusters hold their shape nicely and don’t end up too gooey. You can also customize these with any nuts or dried fruits you have on hand, making them versatile for any occasion!

        Why You Will Love These Clusters
        The perfect balance of sweet and salty with decadent chocolate.
A delightful crunch from the peanuts combined with chewy coconut.
Quick to make and perfect for sharing at any gathering.

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Clusters

Achieving the right texture is crucial for these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters. When melting the chocolate, be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds. This method helps prevent overheating and ensures a smooth, glossy finish. Stirring between intervals allows the residual heat to continue melting the chocolate, giving you control over the consistency. Look for the chocolate to be completely melted without any lumps before removing it from the microwave.

The combination of peanuts and shredded coconut in this recipe not only offers a delightful texture contrast but also enhances the flavor profile. The roasted unsalted peanuts deliver a satisfying crunch without overwhelming saltiness, allowing the sweet chocolate and mild coconut flavors to shine through. If you prefer, you can swap in other nuts like almonds or cashews, but make sure they are roasted and unsalted to maintain the balance of flavors.

Storing and Enjoying Your Clusters

After the clusters have set in the refrigerator, store them in an airtight container. These treats can last up to a week in the fridge, making them ideal for a quick snack or sweet treat throughout the week. If you want to extend their freshness, consider freezing them. Just layer parchment paper between clusters to prevent sticking, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw in the fridge for a bit before serving.

These Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters are deeply versatile. You can add other mix-ins according to your preferences. For instance, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before they set for a delightful sweet-salty experience or incorporate mini marshmallows for an even richer texture. You can also dip additional components like pretzels or dried fruit in the chocolate mixture for a twist on this classic treat.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious clusters:

Ingredients

1 cup roasted unsalted peanuts
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your clusters:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir in the roasted peanuts and shredded coconut until evenly coated with chocolate.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto a lined baking sheet. Make sure to space them out as they will spread slightly.

Chill to Set

Refrigerate the clusters for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.

Serve and Enjoy

Once set, enjoy your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters immediately or store them in an airtight container in the fridge!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different types of chocolate or add a pinch of sea salt on top of the clusters for an extra flavor boost!

Ingredient Insights

The choice of chocolate chips is vital for this recipe, as they form the base of the clusters. Semi-sweet chocolate chips create a balanced sweetness that enhances the flavors without overpowering the other ingredients. You can also explore dark chocolate options if you prefer a richer taste. If you're avoiding chocolate entirely, consider using carob chips for a similar texture and flavor profile that caters to dietary needs.

Shredded coconut plays an essential role in adding chewiness to the clusters. Opt for unsweetened shredded coconut to avoid an overly sugary taste, allowing the chocolate and peanuts to take center stage. If coconut isn't your favorite, you can replace it with granola or crushed graham crackers for added crunch and a different flavor dimension.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your chocolate isn’t melting smoothly or appears thick and clumpy, it may have been overheated. Avoid this by keeping an eye on the consistency and stopping the microwave when it still has a few lumps, as stirring will help it come together. Should this happen, add a teaspoon of coconut oil to rescue the mixture and improve the texture.

When forming the clusters, it’s essential to drop heaping tablespoons onto the lined baking sheet. If they fall flat or melt entirely together, ensure you’re using a parchment-lined or silicone mat to provide stability and prevent sticking. Proper spacing between each cluster is also key to maintaining their shape as they set in the refrigerator.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with almonds, cashews, or any other nut you prefer.

→ How do I store these clusters?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I make these clusters vegan?

Yes! Just use dairy-free chocolate chips to keep the recipe vegan-friendly.

→ What can I add to the clusters for extra flavor?

Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist.