When it comes to easy, crowd-pleasing desserts, chocolate peanut clusters are hard to beat. This classic no-bake treat combines creamy, melted chocolate with crunchy peanuts, creating bite-sized clusters of sweet and salty perfection. Best of all, this recipe makes a big batch—perfect for holiday gifting, party trays, bake sales, or simply keeping a jar in the kitchen for snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless: Just melt, mix, and drop—no oven required. Scalable: The recipe makes a large batch, but it’s easy to halve or double. Customizable: Swap peanuts for mixed nuts, add pretzels, or drizzle with white chocolate. Perfect for sharing: Great for holiday tins, gift bags, or office treats.
Ingredients:
2 pounds (about 4 cups) semisweet chocolate chips
1 pound (about 2 cups) milk chocolate chips
1 pound (about 2 cups) white chocolate or vanilla candy coating
4 cups dry roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted, depending on preference)
Optional add-ins:
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup crushed pretzels
1 cup shredded coconut Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Melt the Chocolates
In a large slow cooker or double boiler, combine semisweet chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate.
Heat on low (if using a slow cooker) or gently over simmering water (if using a double boiler), stirring occasionally until smooth and fully melted.
2. Add the Peanuts
Stir in peanuts until they’re well coated in the chocolate mixture. If adding extra mix-ins (pretzels, coconut, marshmallows), fold them in gently.
3. Form the Clusters
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or wax paper.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the sheets, spacing them slightly apart.
4. Let Them Set
Allow the clusters to cool at room temperature for several hours, or place the trays in the refrigerator for quicker setting.
5. Serve or Store
Once hardened, transfer clusters to an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or up to 1 month in the refrigerator.
Tips for Success
Use quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor.
Even melting: Stir often to prevent scorching, especially when melting large amounts.
Gift-ready: Place clusters in decorative bags or tins lined with tissue paper for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Extra crunch: Mix in cornflakes or rice cereal for a lighter, crispier texture.
Variations to Try
Peanut Butter Lovers: Add ½ cup peanut butter to the melted chocolate for a creamier, nutty flavor.
Holiday Twist: Use red and green sprinkles, or drizzle with white chocolate for a festive look.
Trail Mix Style: Swap half the peanuts for almonds, cashews, dried cranberries, or raisins.
Final Thoughts
Big Batch Chocolate Peanut Clusters are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes bring the most joy. With minimal ingredients and no baking required, this recipe is perfect for busy days, last-minute treats, or homemade holiday gifting.