Crock Pot Chocolate Peanut Clusters are the ultimate no-fuss sweet treat for the holiday season or any time you’re craving chocolatey, nutty goodness. This easy slow cooker dessert brings together three kinds of chocolate and a trio of peanuts to create rich, indulgent clusters that are perfect for gift-giving or snacking. Made with minimal prep and zero baking, this recipe is ideal for busy home cooks who still want to whip up something homemade and special. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that practically makes itself, this one is a winner!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chocolate Peanut Clusters Recipe
These chocolate peanut clusters are irresistibly delicious, with a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy in every bite. Using a slow cooker eliminates the need for constant stirring or worrying about burning the chocolate, making it nearly foolproof. It yields a big batch, perfect for parties, potlucks, or festive goodie bags. Best of all, it’s a flexible recipe; you can tweak the type of chocolate or nuts to your liking.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs White Melting Chocolate (White Almond Bark or Candy Coating)
- 4 oz Sweet Baking Chocolate (such as German by Baker’s)
- 2 cups Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips
- 16 oz Salted Dry Roasted Peanuts
- 8 oz Unsalted Dry Roasted Peanuts
- 8 oz Cocktail Peanuts
Step-by-Step: How to Make Crock Pot Chocolate Peanut Clusters
- Prepare your space: Line your countertop or three large baking sheets with parchment paper. This recipe makes a generous amount.
- Layer the chocolates: In a 5-quart (or larger) slow cooker, add the white melting chocolate, sweet baking chocolate, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Slow cook the chocolate: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set to LOW. Let the chocolates melt for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Combine melted chocolate: Once all the chocolate is soft and melted, stir until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Add the peanuts: Add all of the peanuts to the melted chocolate and stir well to coat every nut.
- Keep warm: Switch the slow cooker to Warm or turn it off but keep the crock in place to maintain heat.
- Scoop the clusters: Use a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop to drop spoonfuls onto the prepared parchment paper.
- Set and store: Let the clusters cool and harden for about 1 hour. Once set, transfer them to an airtight container.
Helpful Tips
- Stir the chocolate gently every 30 minutes to prevent scorching.
- Use a cookie scoop for even-sized clusters.
- Let the clusters cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before setting for a gourmet touch.
Substitutions And Variations
- Nut-free version: Replace peanuts with sunflower seeds or chopped pretzels.
- Chocolate options: Try dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
- Add-ins: Mix in dried cranberries, raisins, or mini marshmallows for extra texture and flavor.
- Flavor twist: Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for a flavor boost.
Storage Instructions
Store your Crock Pot Chocolate Peanut Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To extend freshness, refrigerate for as long as 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 cluster, approx.):
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 14g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 90mg Note: Nutrition is an estimate and will vary based on exact ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
- Include as a sweet addition to a dessert platter with cookies and other confections.
- Package in clear treat bags tied with ribbon for holiday gifts.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Add to a party snack mix for sweet-savory contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chocolate Peanut Clusters
Can I use just one type of chocolate? Yes! You can use only semi-sweet, milk, or dark chocolate if that’s what you prefer. Just be sure the total quantity equals about 3 lbs.
Do I have to use a slow cooker? A microwave or double boiler works in a pinch, but a slow cooker is ideal for even melting and hands-off prep.
Can I cut this recipe in half? Absolutely. Just adjust the cooking time slightly and use a smaller slow cooker if possible.
Why are there three types of peanuts? Using a mix of salted, unsalted, and cocktail peanuts adds a range of textures and flavors for a more complex taste.
Do these make good gifts? Definitely! These clusters are sturdy, store well, and look lovely in festive packaging.
Conclusion
Thank you so much for joining me in the kitchen for this sweet and simple Crock Pot Chocolate Peanut Clusters recipe. I absolutely love how easy it is to whip up a big batch of these decadent treats with just a handful of ingredients and hardly any effort. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping a stash for yourself (no judgment here!), these clusters deliver big on flavor and fun. I hope you enjoy every bite—and feel free to make this recipe your own! Happy cooking, and thank you for being a part of this delicious journey with me.
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Crock Pot Chocolate Peanut Clusters
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: About 60 clusters 1x
Description
Crock Pot Chocolate Peanut Clusters are a super simple, no-bake candy made in the slow cooker with three kinds of chocolate and mixed peanuts. Great for gifting, holiday trays, or easy snacking!
Ingredients
2 lbs White Melting Chocolate (White Almond Bark or Candy Coating)
4 oz Sweet Baking Chocolate (such as German by Baker’s)
2 cups Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips
16 oz Salted Dry Roasted Peanuts
8 oz Unsalted Dry Roasted Peanuts
8 oz Cocktail Peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare your space: Line your countertop or three large baking sheets with parchment paper. This recipe makes a generous amount.
- Layer the chocolates: In a 5-quart (or larger) slow cooker, add the white melting chocolate, sweet baking chocolate, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Slow cook the chocolate: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set to LOW. Let the chocolates melt for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Combine melted chocolate: Once all the chocolate is soft and melted, stir until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Add the peanuts: Add all of the peanuts to the melted chocolate and stir well to coat every nut.
- Keep warm: Switch the slow cooker to Warm or turn it off but keep the crock in place to maintain heat.
- Scoop the clusters: Use a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop to drop spoonfuls onto the prepared parchment paper.
- Set and store: Let the clusters cool and harden for about 1 hour. Once set, transfer them to an airtight container.
Notes
This recipe yields a large batch—perfect for holidays. Easily cut the recipe in half. You can mix up the nuts or chocolate types as desired. Add toppings like sea salt or sprinkles before the clusters set.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Sweet Snacks
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cluster
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 4g