One of my favorite candies has always been Peanut Clusters. There is just something heavenly about peanuts and chocolate. These delicious treats are quick and easy to make utilizing either your crockpot or your microwave. They make great holiday desserts and Christmas gifts and can be made in advance.

Salted or unsalted peanuts in peanut clusters?

This age-old debate is very much still alive.  It really is a matter of personal preference. I personally love the combination of the salty-sweet.  It gives the peanut cluster more dimension and character. Try a little sprinkle of sea salt on the top.  It is so delicious!

However, if you don’t really like the salty-sweet combination then go with unsalted.  I have made them both ways and with the unsalted peanuts the chocolate really is the star of the show.

Can I use Spanish Peanuts in Chocolate Peanut Clusters?

Yes, you most certainly can.  These red-skinned peanuts are smaller in size than other peanuts. It is a slightly oily nut with a robust nutty flavor. These peanuts are primarily grown in Oklahoma and Texas.  If you have never tried them I suggest doing so.  They are delicious but slightly different than the runner variety that everyone is used to. Make sure you try a handful before you put them in your clusters.

There are many ways to make these beauties however both the crockpot method and the microwave method are tried, true, and foolproof.

How do you make Crockpot Peanut Clusters?

Make sure that your crockpot is good and dry.  When I get out a dish that is not used often I clean it out before using it. However water and chocolate do not mix so I double-dry it to ensure that all moisture has been removed. Water causes chocolate to seize therefore grab about three paper towels and place them under the lid to so that no moisture from the crockpot drips into the chocolate. Place the paper towels right on top of the crockpot but under the lid.  Let them overhang the pot so they don’t fall in.

Simply put the chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, and coconut oil (or shortening) in the covered crockpot on low. Layer the paper towels right under the lid.  Stir the chocolate about every twenty minutes until it melts.  It can take anywhere from one to two hours however keep a close eye on it and stir often because the chocolate can scorch.

Once melted turn the crockpot off and stir in the peanuts.  Drop the mixture by rounded spoonfuls onto wax paper or parchment paper covered baking sheets and if desired sprinkle with sea salt. Allow to set for a couple of hours.  Store in an airtight container with wax paper between the layers.

How do you make Microwave Peanut Clusters?

 

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