Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters

Name: Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted peanuts; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup milk chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters! The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy peanuts never fails to satisfy my sweet tooth. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making these treats perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m preparing them for a party or simply enjoying a snack at home, I find that they are always a hit. Plus, they come together quickly, which makes them an easy go-to recipe when I’m short on time but craving something indulgent.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:46:13.378Z

When I first tried making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, I realized how simple yet satisfying they are to prepare. I’ve made these time and time again and have fine-tuned the recipe to perfection. I love to experiment with different kinds of chocolate, whether it's dark or milk, and it always turns out delicious!

One tip I discovered is to let the chocolate cool slightly before dipping the peanuts and coconut mixture. This helps achieve the perfect glossy finish and prevents the ingredients from melting into a gooey mess. Trust me, the small details make all the difference in these delightful treats!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly satisfying combination of chocolate, coconut, and peanuts
Quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute snacks
Versatile; can be customized with different nuts and chocolates

      

The Role of Coconut and Peanuts

In this recipe, sweetened shredded coconut plays a critical role not just in flavor but also in texture. The coconut adds a delightful chewiness that contrasts with the crunchy roasted peanuts. When combined, these ingredients provide a satisfying mouthfeel, making each bite an enjoyable experience. You'll notice that the shredded coconut absorbs some of the chocolate, enhancing its rich flavor.

The unsalted peanuts contribute their own unique taste and texture, balancing the sweetness of the chocolate and coconut. I recommend using roasted peanuts for an added depth of flavor. If you prefer a different nut, feel free to substitute with almonds or walnuts, but ensure they are also roasted for optimal taste.

Mastering the Melting Process

Melting chocolate can be tricky; the goal is to achieve a smooth and glossy finish without overheating. Microwaving in 30-second intervals allows you to control the temperature effectively, preventing the chocolate from seizing. Stirring after each interval ensures even heat distribution. If you find that your chocolate has thickened or clumped, adding an extra teaspoon of coconut oil can help smooth it out.

Another method for melting is using a double boiler, which provides a gentler heat. If you opt for this method, be careful not to let any steam or water come into contact with the chocolate, as moisture can cause chocolate to seize up and become unusable.

Chilling and Storing Your Clusters

After forming your clusters, it’s essential to chill them adequately. Refrigerating them for about 20 minutes allows the chocolate to firm up properly, resulting in a more stable treat. For best results, make sure the refrigerator is below 40°F (4°C) to set the chocolate quickly. If you’re short on time, placing them in the freezer for about 10 minutes can also work, though you'll want to keep an eye on them to avoid freezing completely.

For storage, keep the clusters in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last for up to a week at room temperature or several weeks in the fridge. To keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them. Just layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll be ready to enjoy whenever you need a sweet fix.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your clusters:

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted peanuts
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1/2 teaspoon sea salt

These ingredients come together beautifully for a sweet treat!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters:

Melt the Chocolate

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the unsalted peanuts, shredded coconut, and sea salt until well combined.

Coat the Mixture

Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut and coconut mixture, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and place them on a lined baking sheet. Shape them into clusters as desired.

Chill to Set

Refrigerate the clusters for about 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try using dark chocolate or adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling the clusters. You can also substitute almonds or cashews for the peanuts for a different flavor experience.

Potential Variations

This recipe can easily be tailored to your taste preferences. For a tropical twist, try adding chopped dried fruits like mango or pineapple along with the peanuts and coconut. Alternatively, introducing different types of chocolate—like dark or white chocolate—can change the flavor profile, giving you more options for customization.

If you're looking to cut down on sweetness, consider using unsweetened coconut flakes and adjusting the amount of chocolate chips accordingly. You can also play with the proportion of ingredients, such as increasing the nuts for extra crunch or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

These Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your snacking experience by pairing them with various options. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk complements the rich flavors beautifully and enhances the enjoyment of the clusters.

If you're serving these at a gathering, consider arranging them on a platter alongside fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas, which will add a refreshing contrast. For a more indulgent option, offer a small bowl of melted chocolate for dipping or provide a selection of nuts for guests to mix into their clusters.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a richer flavor and pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the coconut.

→ How should I store the clusters?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I add other ingredients to the clusters?

Yes! Feel free to add dried fruits, different nuts, or even a splash of vanilla for added flavor.

→ Are these clusters suitable for vegan diets?

You can make them vegan by using dairy-free chocolate chips and ensuring your coconut is unsweetened.