Dark Chocolate Crockpot Peanut Clusters

Dark Chocolate Crockpot Peanut Clusters is a simple, no‑fuss treat that starts with roasted peanuts and layers of semi‑sweet and dark chocolate melted gently in a slow cooker. You’ll end up with rich, crunchy clusters that deliver a perfect balance of salty‑nutty and deep chocolate flavor. Whether you’re prepping for a party or craving a make‑ahead snack, these clusters hit the sweet spot and keep things easy.

Why You’ll Love These Dark Chocolate Crockpot Peanut Clusters

You’ll love this recipe because it brings together three fantastic elements: chocolate, peanuts and ease. The roasted peanuts provide satisfying crunch and salty contrast to the rich, smooth chocolate. Using the crockpot (slow cooker) means minimal hands‑on time, just layer, melt, stir, portion—and you’re done. Plus, the clusters keep well, making them perfect for gifting, snacking or dessert prepping. The combination of dark chocolate and peanuts also gives you that addictive sweet‑salty hit.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces roasted peanuts
• 6 ounces semi‑sweet chocolate chips
• 2 ounces German chocolate bars (broken into pieces)
• 16 ounces dark chocolate almond bark
• Sprinkles (or coarse salt for topping)

Step‑by‑Step: How to Make Dark Chocolate Crockpot Peanut Clusters

1. Pour the roasted peanuts into the bottom of a 6​quart slow cooker (crockpot).
2. Layer on top: the semi‑sweet chocolate chips, then the broken German chocolate pieces, and finally the dark chocolate almond bark.
3. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 1 ½ to 2 hours. After about 1 ½ hours, stir gently to check if everything is fully melted and smooth. If needed, continue until melted.
4. Meanwhile, line rimmed baking sheets with parchment or wax paper.
5. Once the chocolate is melted and well‑combined with the peanuts, use a medium cookie scoop (or tablespoon) to portion out clusters onto the prepared sheets.
6. Immediately top each cluster with sprinkles or a pinch of coarse salt (depending on your preference).
7. Let the clusters set and harden at room temperature (or in the fridge if your room is warm) for approximately 30 minutes.
8. Store in an airtight container.

Helpful Tips

• Use high‑quality chocolate (good cocoa content, minimal additives) for the best flavor and texture.
• Make sure your nuts are roasted (not raw) for optimal crunch and flavor.
• Every slow cooker runs a bit differently—in some models the melting may go faster or slower; keep an eye on it so the chocolate doesn’t scorch.
• If your clusters are too spread out, you can press them slightly with the back of the scoop to shape them.
• If the weather is warm or humid, allow the clusters to set in the fridge to avoid melting.

Substitutions And Variations

• Swap the dark chocolate almond bark for white chocolate or vanilla almond bark for a lighter, sweeter version.
• Use a different nut like cashews, almonds, or pecans instead of peanuts (just make sure they’re roasted).
• Add pretzels (for extra salty‑crunch) or dried fruit (like cranberries or cherries) for a mix‑in variation.
• Sprinkle on sea salt instead of sprinkles to enhance the salty‑sweet dynamic.
• For a spicy twist: add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the melted chocolate before scooping.

Storage Instructions

Store the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place. If your kitchen is warm, you may prefer storing them in the fridge to keep them from softening. They’re also freezer‑friendly: once set, place in freezer bags or containers, freeze, then thaw in the fridge before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of what similar dark chocolate peanut clusters provide:

• Commercial Version 1 (approx. 2 pieces / 30g):

  • Calories: 160 kcal

  • Fat: ~12g

  • Carbohydrates: ~13g

  • Protein: ~4g

• Commercial Version 2 (approx. 5 pieces / 1.5 oz):

  • Calories: ~240 kcal

  • Fat: ~17g

  • Carbohydrates: ~19g

  • Protein: ~5g

• Homemade Version Estimate:

  • Higher in calories and richness due to:

    • Use of multiple chocolates (semi-sweet, German, almond bark)

    • 16 oz of roasted peanuts

Serving Suggestions

• Serve on a decorative platter for holiday gatherings or dessert tables.
• Package in small cellophane bags, tied with ribbon, for neighbours or as edible gifts.
• Pair the clusters with a strong cup of coffee or espresso — the bitterness of the dark chocolate complements the brew beautifully.
• Add alongside cheese and fruit on a snack board for a sweet finish.
• Keep a jar in the pantry for satisfying after‑dinner treats or as a gift alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dark Chocolate Crockpot Peanut Clusters

Can I use a smaller slow cooker, like a 4‑quart?
Yes, but you’ll want to adjust layer thickness accordingly. The 16 oz peanuts plus 24 oz total chocolate is calibrated for a 6‑quart. In a 4‑quart you may have less spread and more depth, which might change melting times slightly.

Do I need to stir during the slow‑cook period?
No—just layer, set to LOW, and wait. However, after the 1½‑hour mark it’s wise to open and stir to check consistency. If the mixture looks uneven or some chocolate hasn’t melted yet, gently stir to finish the job.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Once the clusters are set and stored in an airtight container, they keep well for days (or longer if frozen). That makes this recipe ideal for prepping ahead of parties or gifting.

My slow cooker runs hot—what should I do?
If your slow cooker tends to run hotter than the standard LOW setting, you may want to check at the 1‑hour mark to avoid scorching. You could also set to WARM after the initial melting to maintain fluid chocolate without over‑cooking.

How many clusters will this recipe yield?
The yield depends on your size of cookie scoop and how much you portion each cluster. Using a medium scoop you’ll likely get many dozens of clusters (e.g., 50‑70 or more) since you’re using 40 oz total (peanuts + chocolate) to distribute. Adjust portion size to suit your needs.

Final Thoughts

Thank you so much for trying this Dark Chocolate Crockpot Peanut Clusters recipe. I hope you find it as fun and satisfying to make as I do to share! It’s wonderfully easy, wonderfully delicious, and the kind of treat that brings joy without forcing you to spend hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the rich chocolate‑and‑nut flavours, the ease of the crockpot method, and the delight of sharing something homemade. Thanks for being part of this food‑loving community. Happy cooking, happy snacking, and here’s to many crunchy, chocolatey moments ahead!

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Dark Chocolate Crockpot Peanut Clusters

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• Author: lisa
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: 60–70 clusters (depending on scoop size) 1x

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Description

Dark Chocolate Crockpot Peanut Clusters are sweet, salty, and irresistibly crunchy. This easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for make-ahead treats or edible gifts with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

16 ounces roasted peanuts

6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips

2 ounces German chocolate bars, broken into pieces

16 ounces dark chocolate almond bark

Sprinkles or coarse salt, for topping

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Instructions

• Pour the roasted peanuts into the bottom of a 6​quart slow cooker (crockpot).
• Layer on top: the semi‑sweet chocolate chips, then the broken German chocolate pieces, and finally the dark chocolate almond bark.
• Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for about 1 ½ to 2 hours. After about 1 ½ hours, stir gently to check if everything is fully melted and smooth. If needed, continue until melted.
• Meanwhile, line rimmed baking sheets with parchment or wax paper.
• Once the chocolate is melted and well‑combined with the peanuts, use a medium cookie scoop (or tablespoon) to portion out clusters onto the prepared sheets.
• Immediately top each cluster with sprinkles or a pinch of coarse salt (depending on your preference).
• Let the clusters set and harden at room temperature (or in the fridge if your room is warm) for approximately 30 minutes.
• Store in an airtight container.

Notes

Use roasted nuts, not raw, for best flavor.

Sub with white or vanilla almond bark if desired.

Add pretzels or dried fruit for extra texture.

Freezes well—store in airtight containers or freezer bags.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert, Snack, Holiday Treat

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cluster (approx. 20g)
• Calories: 217
• Sugar: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 5g