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 milk chocolate chips; 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut; 1 cup roasted unsalted peanuts; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters because they're a delightful combination of rich chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and chewy coconut. This treat comes together quickly, making it perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth or impressing guests at gatherings. Each bite is a burst of flavors and textures that leave everyone wanting more. They’re simple enough to whip up on a whim yet elegant enough to serve at special occasions. Trust me, once you try these clusters, they’ll surely become a favorite in your home too.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:10:09.992Z

I remember the first time I made these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters for a family gathering. The moment I pulled them out of the fridge, the delightful aroma of melted chocolate filled the kitchen. Watching my family’s faces light up as they took their first bites was priceless. The combination of textures—smooth chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and chewy coconut—was heavenly, and they disappeared before I knew it.

One tip I discovered is to make sure your chocolate is tempered correctly before dipping the clusters. This not only improves the texture but also helps the chocolate to set beautifully. Plus, using unsweetened coconut enhances the flavor without making the clusters overly sweet. These little beauties are truly a treat that’ll keep everyone coming back for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy peanuts and chewy coconut
Quick to prepare and perfect for last-minute gatherings
Versatile clusters that can easily be customized with your favorite nuts or dried fruit

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the milk chocolate chips, which provide the rich, creamy base for the clusters. Opt for high-quality chocolate, as the flavor will directly influence the final outcome. If you prefer dark chocolate, you can substitute an equal amount of dark chocolate chips; just be mindful that it will shift the flavor profile to a more robust taste. The sweetness of the milk chocolate balances perfectly with the saltiness of the peanuts and the chewiness of the coconut.

Another key player here is the unsweetened shredded coconut. It's crucial to use unsweetened coconut as it allows the natural sweetness of the chocolate and additional ingredients to shine through. If you can't find unsweetened coconut, consider reducing the added salt slightly, as sweetened coconut can increase the overall sweetness of the clusters. The texture and flavor of the coconut add a delightful chew that enhances the crunchiness of the peanuts.

Techniques for Perfect Clusters

When melting the chocolate, it's important to use low heat and stir consistently. This prevents the chocolate from seizing or burning, which can happen quickly. If you find your chocolate has thickened too much, try adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to restore smoothness. This oil helps the chocolate maintain a glossy finish and provides a delightful mouthfeel that enhances the overall experience of the clusters.

After combining the ingredients, dropping them onto parchment paper can be tricky. Ensure your spoonfuls are generous—about a tablespoon each—to create clusters that hold together well. If the mixture seems too loose, let it sit for a few minutes before forming to allow the chocolate to slightly cool and thicken.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your chocolate clusters:

Ingredients

1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
1 cup roasted unsalted peanuts
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Once you have everything ready, you’re all set to create your delicious clusters!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters:

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the milk chocolate chips, stirring frequently until smooth and melted.

Mix the Ingredients

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded coconut, roasted peanuts, and sea salt until well combined.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop clusters of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.

Cool and Set

Refrigerate the clusters for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate is set.

Once set, enjoy your sweet treats with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding some dried fruit or different types of nuts to the clusters before chilling. You can also drizzle some melted white chocolate on top for a decorative touch!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks, although they usually disappear faster! To keep them fresh, layer them in the container with parchment paper between each layer. This prevents sticking and maintains their shape and texture. If you're thinking about preparing them for an event, making them a day in advance is a fantastic option.

For those with dietary restrictions, these clusters can easily be modified. You could replace the peanuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version. If you want to make them vegan, simply use dairy-free chocolate chips, ensuring that all other ingredients are also free from animal products.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a fun twist, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of each cluster before they set in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavor with a delightful contrast but also makes for an aesthetically pleasing treat. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for an added burst of flavor.

You can serve these treats as is for a casual snack, or plate them elegantly in a decorative dish for a party setting. Pairing them with a rich, dark roast coffee or a sweet dessert wine can really elevate your serving experience, making these clusters a cherished addition to your dessert table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give the clusters a richer flavor.

→ How should I store the clusters?

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

→ Can I make these clusters vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure the peanuts are unsweetened.

→ What can I substitute for peanuts?

You can use any nut of your choice, such as almonds or cashews, or even omit them for a nut-free version.