Get ready to indulge in the ultimate chocolate lover's dream with these decadent Dark Chocolate Peanut Clusters! Imagine biting into a perfect harmony of rich, velvety dark chocolate and crunchy, roasted peanuts, finished with a delicate sprinkle of sea salt that will make your taste buds dance. These irresistible clusters are not just a treat – they're a quick and easy gourmet experience you can create in your own kitchen in just 15 minutes. Whether you're looking for a quick dessert, a homemade gift, or a sophisticated snack, these chocolate peanut clusters are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 clusters
Ingredients
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prepare for chocolate cluster formation.
- Create a double boiler by filling a medium saucepan with 1-2 inches of water and placing a heat-safe glass bowl on top, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
- Heat the water to a gentle simmer and add dark chocolate chips to the glass bowl, stirring continuously with a rubber spatula until chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Remove the chocolate from heat and let it cool slightly for 2-3 minutes to prevent burning the chocolate.
- Add roasted peanuts to the melted chocolate, stirring gently to ensure all nuts are evenly coated.
- Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop chocolate-covered peanut clusters onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cluster.
- Sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt over each chocolate cluster while the chocolate is still wet.
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow clusters to set and harden completely.
- Remove clusters from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.
- Store clusters in an airtight container at cool room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- • Use high-quality dark chocolate chips for the best flavor and smooth melting • Be patient when melting chocolate - use low, gentle heat to prevent burning • Ensure your glass bowl doesn't touch the water in the double boiler to prevent seizing • Let the chocolate cool slightly before adding peanuts to maintain a glossy finish • Use a cookie scoop for uniform cluster sizes • Sprinkle sea salt immediately after dropping clusters for best adherence • Refrigerate clusters to set quickly, but don't leave them in too long to prevent condensation • For variations, try adding other nuts like almonds or adding a drizzle of white chocolate • These clusters make excellent gifts when packaged in cute mason jars or cellophane bags • Store in a cool, dry place to maintain the chocolate's perfect texture
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 109kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
