Super Bowl Desserts Chocolate Peanut Clusters

Name: Super Bowl Desserts Chocolate Peanut Clusters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 20 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups chocolate chips; 1 cup salted peanuts; 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Collection

I absolutely adore these chocolate peanut clusters! They are incredibly easy to make and are the perfect sweet treat for any Super Bowl gathering. These delightful bites are loaded with crunchy peanuts and creamy chocolate, creating a balanced flavor that everyone will love. I find that they disappear quickly at parties, so I like to make a double batch. Trust me, once you try them, you'll want to have them on speed dial for every celebration!

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:57:35.293Z

When I first experimented with these chocolate peanut clusters, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. The secret to their success is using high-quality chocolate and lightly salted peanuts. The contrasting flavors create a wonderful combination that keeps everyone coming back for more. I also discovered that letting them cool completely on parchment paper not only helps them set perfectly but keeps them from sticking together.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor melded with crunchy peanuts
Perfectly sweet and salty contrast in every bite
Easily customizable with your favorite nuts or additives

      

Perfectly Balanced Flavor

The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy peanuts in this dessert creates a delightful balance that is both sweet and salty. The chocolate provides a luxurious coating that enhances the nuttiness of the salted peanuts. For a more intense peanut flavor, consider using unsalted peanuts and adding a pinch of salt to the chocolate. This added layer allows the chocolate to shine while still honoring the peanuts' unique crunch.

When preparing these chocolate clusters, the quality of chocolate you choose can significantly affect the final taste. I recommend using high-quality chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars, as they melt smoothly and coat the peanuts beautifully, resulting in glossy, perfectly formed clusters. Avoid low-quality chocolates, as they may not melt as well and can leave a grainy texture.

Creative Variations

While salted peanuts are fantastic, don't hesitate to experiment with other nuts and toppings! You can easily substitute in chopped almonds, cashews, or pecans for a different taste and texture. Dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, can also add a sweet, chewy contrast to the crunchy clusters. Just remember to adjust the sweetness of the chocolate if you include sweeter additives.

For a more indulgent treat, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled clusters for a beautiful presentation and a touch of extra sweetness. Alternatively, adding a sprinkle of sea salt right before cooling can elevate the flavor profile further, creating a gourmet touch that friends and family will love.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These chocolate peanut clusters store exceptionally well, making them an ideal make-ahead treat for any gathering. Once hardened, transfer the clusters to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just layer parchment paper between the clusters to prevent sticking and use them within three months for optimal freshness.

If you're planning to serve these at a party, consider making a double batch as I often do. This way, you’ll have plenty on hand to satisfy cravings. You can prepare the clusters a couple of days in advance, allowing you to enjoy hosting without the last-minute rush of dessert preparation.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Ingredients

2 cups chocolate chips
1 cup salted peanuts
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)

Double-check your quantities, as it's easy to get carried away with these delicious ingredients!

Instructions

Before diving into the steps, make sure to prepare your workspace and have all necessary tools ready.

Melt the Chocolate

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

Mix in Peanuts

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the salted peanuts until they are evenly coated.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop clusters of the chocolate and peanut mixture onto a lined baking sheet. Keep them about an inch apart.

Cool and Set

Allow the clusters to cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator for another 15 minutes to harden.

After letting them cool, serve your chocolate peanut clusters during the Super Bowl to impress your guests!

Pro Tips

Store these clusters in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness. Try adding dried fruit or other nuts for a unique twist!

Troubleshooting Melting Chocolate

Melting chocolate can sometimes be tricky, especially if you’re using a microwave. Stir frequently to avoid hot spots that can cause the chocolate to seize. If you find your chocolate isn’t melting smoothly, add a little coconut oil to help achieve a glossy finish. A quick tip: if your chocolate seizes, try adding a small amount of warm milk or cream to loosen it.

If you’re melting chocolate on the stovetop, use a double boiler to maintain low, even heat. Always stir continuously to prevent the chocolate from burning at the bottom. If the chocolate appears thick and not pouring easily, it’s likely overheated; remove it from heat immediately and incorporate a bit more coconut oil to salvage it.

Serving Suggestions

These chocolate peanut clusters are not only delicious but also highly versatile in how you can serve them. Present them in colorful paper cups for parties, or stack them in a decorative jar for a thoughtful gift. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making for an easy yet impressive dessert.

If you want to elevate them even more, consider serving your clusters alongside fresh fruit, like strawberries or apple slices, as a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chocolate. This combination not only adds visual appeal but also provides a delightful experience for your guests.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe is straightforward. If you want to make a larger batch for a crowd, simply double or triple the quantities of chocolate chips and peanuts. Ensure your baking sheets are large enough to accommodate the additional clusters, or use multiple sheets to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to uneven setting.

On the other hand, if you're looking to make a smaller batch, you can easily halve the ingredients. A single cup of chocolate chips with half a cup of peanuts still yields a satisfying number of clusters for a quiet evening or a low-key snack.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind it may be sweeter than dark chocolate.

→ How long will these clusters last?

When stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week at room temperature or two weeks in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use unsalted peanuts?

Absolutely! If you prefer less salt, unsalted peanuts work just as well.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to mix in other ingredients like caramel bits, dried cranberries, or even pretzels for extra crunch!