Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters

Name: Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup of dark chocolate chips; 1 cup of roasted peanuts (unsalted); 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut; 1 tablespoon of coconut oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters at home! These little bites of bliss are not only easy to whip up, but they combine the rich flavors of chocolate, the crunchiness of peanuts, and the tropical essence of coconut into one delicious treat. Whenever I crave something sweet and satisfying, these clusters are my go-to recipe. Perfect for sharing with friends or just indulging myself, they never fail to impress with their delightful taste and texture that makes every bite a true delight.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:19:12.612Z

When I first tried making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, I was amazed at how simple and delightful they were! The combination of melty chocolate with crunchy peanuts and chewy coconut just works so wonderfully together. I found that using high-quality chocolate really elevates these clusters, making them taste even more indulgent.

As I experimented with the recipe, I discovered that letting the clusters sit in the fridge for a bit enhances their texture, giving them a satisfying bite and making them easier to handle. Trust me, once you get a taste of these, you’ll want to keep them stocked!

        Why You'll Love These Clusters
        Decadent chocolate flavor complemented by crunchy peanuts
Nutty coconut adds a tropical twist with every bite
Quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings or snacking

      

The Importance of Chocolate Quality

When making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, the quality of the chocolate you use plays a crucial role in the final flavor profile. I recommend opting for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60-70% cocoa content. This not only enhances the richness of the clusters but also balances well with the sweetness of the coconut. Lower-quality chocolates can contain wax or fillers that may not melt smoothly, resulting in a grainy texture that diminishes the overall satisfaction of each bite.

Additionally, when melting the chocolate, it's vital to monitor the heat carefully. Using a double boiler method, where you place a heatproof bowl over simmering water, helps to control the temperature and prevents the chocolate from seizing up. Stir occasionally until the mixture is glossy and uniform, which typically takes about 5-10 minutes. If the chocolate seems thick or clumpy, it might be due to overexposure to heat, so adjusting the temperature can make a big difference.

Mixing Techniques for Perfect Clusters

After melting the chocolate, the mixing process is where the magic truly happens. To ensure an even coating, add the roasted peanuts and shredded coconut to the chocolate gradually, allowing each ingredient to absorb the chocolate thoroughly. This could take about 2-3 minutes of gentle folding to prevent the mixture from becoming too thick or cumbersome. Visual cues like seeing all the peanuts and coconut gleaming with chocolate will guide you to know they are well coated.

When forming clusters on the parchment-lined baking sheet, aim for uniformity in size. Using a standard tablespoon can help achieve consistent cluster sizes, ensuring that they set evenly. Spacing the clusters about an inch apart allows for slight expansion as they chill, preventing them from merging together. This detail will make serving them a lot easier and more appealing.

Ingredients

For the Clusters

1 cup of dark chocolate chips
1 cup of roasted peanuts (unsalted)
1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut
1 tablespoon of coconut oil

Mix these ingredients together for a delightful combination!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Melt them together over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth.

Mix Ingredients

Remove the bowl from heat and stir in the roasted peanuts and shredded coconut until they are well coated with chocolate.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop clusters of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Each cluster should be about a tablespoon in size.

Chill Until Set

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.

Enjoy your delicious clusters!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of sea salt on top of each cluster before chilling. This contrast enhances the sweetness of the chocolate and the nuttiness of the peanuts.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters are excellent for make-ahead treats. Once set, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider keeping them in the refrigerator, where they can last for about two weeks. If you plan to keep them longer, I recommend freezing them. Lay the clusters in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Thawing at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving retains their delightful texture.

If you notice the clusters becoming dry or crumbly after storage, it could be due to air exposure. Using vacuum-sealed bags can mitigate this issue and help maintain their freshness longer. Always separate layers with parchment paper when stacking to prevent sticking. This not only preserves their shape but also makes for a presentable treat when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Variations to Try

While the original recipe is a delight, feel free to experiment with different ingredient combinations. For a touch of spice, adding a pinch of sea salt or a dash of cinnamon can enhance the chocolate's richness. Alternatively, try incorporating dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots for a burst of natural sweetness and chewy texture. Just remember to adjust the amount of chocolate and coconut slightly to keep the balance intact.

If you have dietary restrictions or simply want a different flavor profile, consider using almond butter instead of coconut oil for a nutty twist that complements the peanuts. Swap out the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate for a sweeter option, or try using dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version. Each variation offers a unique taste, inviting new experiences with every batch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used if you prefer a sweeter taste, but keep in mind it will alter the overall flavor profile.

→ How should I store the clusters?

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

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Just choose dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure that the coconut oil is refined if you want to avoid the coconut flavor.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can mix in dried fruits, seeds, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for more flavor variation!