Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters

Name: Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 20 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted peanuts, roasted; 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I can't resist the combination of chocolate, coconut, and peanuts, and these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters have quickly become one of my favorite treats. Every time I make them, the house fills with the delightful aroma of melting chocolate mixed with toasty coconut. They’re super simple to whip up, taking just a few ingredients and minimal time. Plus, they make for a great snack or dessert to share with family and friends, and let’s be honest, they just look so appealing on any dessert platter.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:40:05.114Z

When I first attempted making these Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. With just a handful of ingredients, I found that the key is to roast the peanuts lightly beforehand for an added depth of flavor. I ensured the chocolate was just melted enough to coat the clusters beautifully without being too runny, creating the perfect balance for delicious bites.

One tip that I learned along the way is to let the clusters set in the refrigerator to firm up. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes them much easier to handle. Trust me, once you try these delightful candies, you’ll want to keep making them again and again!

        Why You'll Love These Clusters
        The irresistible combination of rich chocolate and crunchy peanuts
An enjoyable chewiness from the coconut, adding a tropical flair
Perfectly portioned bites that satisfy your sweet tooth without guilt

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The three core ingredients in Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters each play a crucial role. Unsalted roasted peanuts offer a satisfying crunch and a slightly nutty flavor that complements the rich chocolate. When choosing peanuts, opt for those that are freshly roasted to enhance their natural oils and flavor. Alternatively, if you have allergies or preferences, you can substitute with roasted almonds for a similar texture.

Unsweetened shredded coconut not only adds a chewy texture but also a tropical essence that elevates the overall flavor profile. Using unsweetened coconut ensures your clusters won’t be overly sweet, allowing the chocolate and peanuts to shine through. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider using sweetened coconut, but do keep in mind that this will alter the overall sweetness of the clusters.

Lastly, semi-sweet chocolate chips are perfect for achieving that glossy finish and rich cocoa flavor. Consider using high-quality chocolate for the best taste, as its melting characteristics will affect the final texture of the clusters. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, choose a dairy-free chocolate chip alternative, which will still provide the creamy consistency you desire.

Key Techniques for Perfect Clusters

When melting the chocolate, using a microwave-safe bowl is essential to avoid any burning. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time; this prevents the chocolate from seizing and becoming grainy. Alternatively, using a double boiler ensures more controlled heating, helping maintain the smooth texture needed for coating the other ingredients. Whichever method you choose, the melted chocolate should be glossy and fluid before mixing it in.

Once your clusters are formed and placed on the parchment paper, resist the temptation to eat them immediately! Allowing them to chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes not only sets the chocolate but also helps the clusters maintain their shape. If you notice that the chocolate hasn't fully set after the initial chilling time, extend it by another 5-10 minutes to ensure they are firm enough to handle without losing their form.

Scaling this recipe is simple; just maintain the same ratio of ingredients. For a larger batch, you can easily double each ingredient and ensure your melting and mixing bowls are sufficiently sized to handle the increased volume. Remember, though, that baking times in the fridge may vary slightly with larger quantities, so keep an eye on the clusters to gauge when they're set.

Ingredients

For the Clusters

1 cup unsalted peanuts, roasted
1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Mix in Peanuts and Coconut

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the roasted peanuts and shredded coconut until everything is evenly coated.

Form the Clusters

Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop clusters of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.30

Chill the Clusters

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes, or until the chocolate has set completely.

Once set, you can serve them right away or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds of your choice into the mixture before forming the clusters.

Serving Suggestions

These clusters make a delightful treat on their own but can be taken up a notch with a few creative serving ideas. Try pairing them with vanilla ice cream for a delicious sundae or serving them alongside a fresh fruit platter for a balanced dessert spread. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling can also enhance the sweet and salty flavor combo, making them even more indulgent.

For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled clusters for a beautiful contrast and an extra layer of sweetness. You can color the white chocolate with food coloring to match seasonal holidays, making these clusters perfect for parties and celebrations. Additionally, presenting them in decorative paper cups can add an appealing visual element when hosting guests.

Storage and Freezing

After enjoying some of your Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, store the leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but I usually recommend eating them within the first few days for the best texture. If your kitchen is particularly warm, it may be best to keep them in the refrigerator to maintain their firmness.

For longer storage, these clusters freeze beautifully! Simply layer them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, you can thaw them in the refrigerator or enjoy them straight out of the freezer for a cold treat. Frozen clusters can last up to three months, making them a perfect make-ahead snack.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate or white chocolate can be used as substitutes based on your preference.

→ How do I store leftover clusters?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for longer.

→ Are these clusters suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, as long as you use dairy-free chocolate chips, these clusters can easily be made vegan.

→ Can I add more ingredients to the clusters?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding in dried fruits, other nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.