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 dark chocolate chips; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup roasted peanuts; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Pastry Pleasures

As someone who adores sweet and salty combinations, I can't resist the allure of Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters. Each bite is a delightful surprise, blending rich chocolate with the crunch of peanuts and the tropical sweetness of coconut. Making these treats is surprisingly simple, and they come together in just a few steps. The best part? You don't need any complex equipment. Just a few pantry staples and a little time will reward you with an indulgent snack that's perfect for sharing—or not!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:01:11.017Z

When I decided to make these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, I was looking for a quick and tasty treat to share with friends. The combination of chocolate, coconut, and peanuts not only excites the palate but also brings a fun texture that’s hard to resist. I experimented with different types of chocolate and found that using dark chocolate really complements the sweetness of the coconut perfectly.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how versatile it is. After several attempts, I discovered that toasting the peanuts beforehand enhances their flavor and crunch. It’s a small step that brings a big difference to the final product!

Why You'll Love These Clusters
Rich chocolate flavor balanced with crunchy peanuts
Sweet coconut adds a tropical twist to every bite
Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without the guilt

The Importance of Quality Chocolate

When creating Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, the type of chocolate you choose plays a crucial role in the overall flavor of the treat. For a deeper, more complex taste, opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This will not only enhance the richness but also provide a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the coconut. Avoid using chocolate that contains too many additives; opting for pure chocolate ensures a smoother melt, resulting in a glossy finish.

Melt the chocolate gently to avoid scorching. Reheat it in 30-second increments, giving it time to warm up without burning. You want it to be fully melted and smooth, achieving a luscious consistency perfect for coating the peanuts and coconut. This technique not only preserves the chocolate quality but also helps it set nicely once you chill the clusters.

Coconut and Its Role in Texture

The unsweetened shredded coconut adds not just flavor but also a delightful texture to these clusters. When selecting coconut, make sure to use unsweetened shredded coconut, as sweetened varieties will alter the balance of flavors. The coconut contributes a chewy bite that complements the crunchy roasted peanuts and the smooth chocolate. It’s essential that the coconut is evenly distributed throughout the clusters to ensure every bite delivers that tropical flavor.

To enhance the coconut's fragrance and flavor, consider toasting it lightly in a dry skillet before mixing it with the chocolate. Just a few minutes over medium-low heat will amplify its nutty qualities, bringing warmth and depth to your clusters. Remember to stir frequently so that it doesn’t burn.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters have chilled and firmed up, storing them properly is key to maintaining their texture. Place them in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. These treats will last up to two weeks at room temperature or even longer if kept refrigerated. If you live in a particularly warm climate, refrigeration will maintain their firmness and prevent melting.

For a fun twist, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt right before serving. This touch can elevate the sweet and salty contrast that makes these clusters so crave-worthy. You might also try incorporating other mix-ins like dried fruit or pretzels for added variety in texture and flavor. Just remember to adjust the quantities so that the chocolate can adequately coat all the ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Clusters

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1 cup roasted peanuts
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 teaspoon sea salt

Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.

Mix in Other Ingredients

Stir in the shredded coconut and roasted peanuts into the melted chocolate until all pieces are evenly coated.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle each cluster with a pinch of sea salt.

Chill to Set

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes or until the clusters firm up.

Serve and Enjoy

Once set, remove the clusters from the parchment and enjoy your delicious treats! Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Enjoy your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters as a sweet snack or a delightful dessert!

Pro Tips

To make these clusters even more decadent, try adding dried fruit or a sprinkle of your favorite nuts into the mix. They can also be drizzled with white chocolate for a beautiful contrast.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to make a larger batch of Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, scaling this recipe is simple. Just keep the same ratio of ingredients, but make sure to use a larger mixing bowl to accommodate the additional mixture. This is crucial when mixing to ensure that the chocolate evenly coats all peanuts and coconut. Depending on your workspace, you may want to use multiple baking sheets lined with parchment paper to spread out the clusters as they cool.

For smaller batch experiments, consider halving the recipe. You can easily store leftover chocolate in the fridge for later use. Just re-melt it gently before dipping more ingredients. Remember, adjusting the ingredient amounts may slightly alter the setting time, so keep an eye on the clusters as they chill.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One potential issue when making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters is chocolate that seizes during melting. If moisture gets into the chocolate, it can clump up and become grainy. To prevent this, make sure all bowls and utensils are completely dry, and consider adding a small amount of coconut oil if you notice the chocolate thickening while melting. This can help restore a smooth texture.

Another common hiccup is clusters that fall apart quickly. This can happen if the chocolate isn't warm enough to fully coat and bind the peanuts and coconut. Ensure you stir thoroughly after mixing in the ingredients to coat everything well. Additionally, if they seem too crumbly, a dash more melted chocolate can help bring the mixture together before forming them into clusters.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor, but it may alter the final taste.

→ How should I store the clusters?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week for maximum freshness.

→ Can I substitute the peanuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any preferred nuts, such as almonds or cashews.

→ Is it necessary to toast the peanuts?

Toasting the peanuts enhances their flavor and crunch, but it’s not mandatory if you’re short on time.