Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters

Name: Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted); 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating sweet treats that are both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. These Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters are one of my favorite snacks to whip up when I'm craving something sweet yet satisfying. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and chewy coconut makes every bite a delightful experience. Plus, they come together in minutes, making them a perfect choice for unexpected guests or a late-night indulgence. Trust me, you'll be reaching for seconds in no time!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:04:25.542Z

When I first tried making Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters, I was fascinated by how such simple ingredients could come together to create a treat that feels so indulgent. The trick lies in melting the chocolate just right—too hot, and it can separate, so keeping it at a low temperature ensures a smooth finish. I also love to mix in a bit of sea salt on top to enhance the sweetness, creating a perfect balance.

Interestingly, I discovered that letting the clusters cool in the fridge not only helps them set faster but also intensifies the flavor as the chocolate hardens. Every bite is a delicious journey with the crunch of the peanuts, the chewiness of the coconut, and the decadent chocolate coating. You'll want to share, but good luck keeping them around!

        Why You'll Love These Clusters
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy peanuts
Chewy texture from the coconut that contrasts beautifully
Sweet and salty combination that’s hard to resist

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of chocolate is crucial for achieving the best flavor in these clusters. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate chips with at least 60% cocoa content for a rich, deep flavor. The cocoa solids in dark chocolate not only contribute to the taste but also help the clusters set properly. Avoid using chocolate with added emulsifiers as they can affect the texture and mouthfeel.

The shiny, glossy appearance of the clusters comes from properly melting the chocolate. Be sure to stir the chocolate and coconut oil mixture frequently while microwaving to prevent scorching. It's best to heat in short increments of 30 seconds, stopping to stir after each session until completely melted. You want the mixture to be smooth and pourable for easy coating of the peanuts and coconut.

Creating the Perfect Clusters

When forming the clusters, I recommend using a standard tablespoon to scoop the mixture. This helps create uniform clusters that cook evenly. For best results, allow the mixture to cool slightly before forming; this will reduce the likelihood of the clusters spreading too much on the baking sheet. If the mixture is too hot, the chocolate may lose its shape as it sets.

If you prefer larger or smaller clusters, you can adjust the size by using a different spoong. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly if they are larger or smaller than the suggested tablespoon size. Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet; leave some space between clusters, as they may slightly expand when setting.

Ingredients

Cluster Ingredients

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1 cup roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted)
1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

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

Mix Ingredients

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the shredded coconut and roasted peanuts. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated in chocolate.

Form Clusters

Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a lined baking sheet, forming small clusters. Aim for about 1 tablespoon per cluster.

Cool and Set

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes or until the chocolate has completely hardened.

Pro Tips

For a special twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of each cluster before they cool. It enhances the flavor beautifully and adds a gourmet touch!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Coconut Peanut Clusters can be made a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. To prolong their freshness, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to two weeks. Just be aware that refrigeration can alter the texture slightly, making them firmer but not compromising on flavor.

If you're looking to create a larger batch, these clusters freeze well too! Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy them, simply take out however many you want and let them thaw at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with your clusters! You can substitute almonds, cashews, or even sunflower seeds for peanuts if you're looking for a nut-free option. Dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins, can also be added for a burst of sweetness and texture. Just remember to adjust the quantity so that the clusters maintain their shape.

For an extra flavor twist, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before the chocolate sets. This enhances the sweet and salty contrast and provides an appealing finish. You might also experiment with flavored chocolate, like milk chocolate or even white chocolate, for a different taste profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. Just be sure to adjust the amount of coconut oil accordingly.

→ How long do these clusters last?

They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts, like almonds or cashews, for a different flavor profile.

→ Is there a vegan option?

Yes, just ensure that you use dairy-free chocolate chips and omit the coconut oil if you're using a brand of chocolate that has enough fat.