Slow Cooker Peanut Clusters with just a few pantry staples, you melt chocolate and almond bark in a crock‑pot and mix in crunchy peanuts (and optional toffee or sprinkles) to create bite‑sized clusters that are perfect for snacking or gifting. The process is straightforward, the payoff is rich in flavor and texture, and the result is something you’ll gladly make again and again.
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Peanut Clusters
You’ll love making Slow Cooker Peanut Clusters because they’re delightfully simple and satisfying. The sweet‑and‑salty combination of chocolate, peanut butter flavor from peanut butter chips, and crunchy peanuts creates an irresistible texture contrast. Using a slow cooker means minimal fuss—no watching a stove top or managing multiple pots—so you can prep and relax while the machine does the work. Plus, they’re ideal for gatherings, gifts or casual everyday treats. The optional toffee bits and sprinkles add a festive, fun touch, making them just as suited for special occasions as for a cozy snack evening.
Ingredients
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4 cups (32 oz) peanuts (dry roasted or cocktail peanuts – your preference)
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16 ounces almond bark (vanilla-flavored; you can substitute chocolate-flavored if you want ra icher chocolate taste)
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1 cup chocolate chips
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1 cup peanut butter chips
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Optional: 1 cup toffee bits and/or a couple of tablespoons sprinkles
Step-by-Step: How to Make Slow Cooker Peanut Clusters
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In your 6‑quart crock‑pot (or similarly sized slow cooker), layer the ingredients in the order listed: peanuts first, then almond bark, then chocolate chips, then peanut butter chips. Leave out the sprinkles until later.
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Cover the crock‑pot and cook on low for 20 minutes.
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After 20 minutes, stir the mixture and cook for another 5‑10 minutes on Low.
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Continue cooking and stirring every 5‑10 minutes until the chocolate and almond bark are completely melted and smooth—stirring is important so nothing burns and everything combines evenly.
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Once your mixture is smooth and fully melted, use a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon size) to drop rounded mounds of the mixture onto a sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cluster.
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If desired, top each cluster with sprinkles while they’re still soft.
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Allow the clusters to set completely before storing. This means leaving them at room temperature (or in the fridge if your room is warm) until fully firm.
Helpful Tips
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Use a liner inside your slow cooker to make cleanup easier—just remove the liner when done.
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Use the low setting and stir frequently to avoid scorch or seizing of chocolate.
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Cover the lid with a kitchen towel or paper towel to catch condensation and prevent water from dripping into the chocolate.
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For a deeper chocolate flavor, use chocolate almond bark instead of vanilla.
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Allow clusters to set at room temperature or chill them in the fridge for quicker setting.
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Store in layers separated by parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.
Substitutions and Variations
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Nut substitution: Try almonds, cashews, or walnuts instead of peanuts. Sunflower or pumpkin seeds can also work for a nut-free version.
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Chocolate variation: Mix dark and milk chocolate chips or add white chocolate drizzle once clusters set.
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Add-ins: Enhance flavour with toffee bits, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or crushed pretzels.
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Dietary tweaks: Use dairy-free chips and bark for a dairy-free version, or seed-based substitutes for a nut-free alternative.
Storage Instructions
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Room temperature: Store in a cool, dry spot for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
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Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to a month to keep them firm and fresh.
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Freezer: Freeze clusters in a freezer-safe bag or container. Use parchment to separate layers. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutritional Information
Each cluster contains approximately 140–247 calories depending on size and mix-ins.
Typical nutritional breakdown per piece (estimate):
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10–15g fat
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4g protein
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13–23g carbs
Peanuts provide healthy fats and plant-based protein. Chocolate and bark add sugars, so enjoy in moderation. Use darker chocolate or smaller scoop sizes to reduce sugar content if desired.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon treat.
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Gift in small tins or clear bags for holidays, birthdays, or hostess gifts.
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Add to charcuterie or dessert boards.
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Serve as part of a party snack spread.
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Use themed sprinkles to customize for holidays and special events.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Peanut Clusters
Is there a way to make this recipe without using a slow cooker?
Yes. You can melt the almond bark, chocolate chips, and peanut butter chips in a heavy saucepan over low heat on the stove. Stir constantly until everything is smooth, then mix in the peanuts. Follow the same method for scooping onto parchment and letting them set.
Are raw peanuts a suitable alternative to roasted ones?
You can use raw peanuts, but the flavour will be milder. Roasted peanuts (especially dry roasted) enhance the depth and crunch of the clusters. If using raw, consider lightly toasting them in the oven first for best results.
My chocolate mixture became grainy or didn’t set properly — what happened?
Moisture or overheating can cause chocolate to seize or clump. Use a towel under the lid to catch condensation and cook only on Low while stirring regularly.
How large should each cluster be, and how many will this recipe yield?
Using a tablespoon scoop typically yields around 40 clusters, depending on how much mix you use for each.
Can I adjust sweetness or saltiness?
Yes. Dark chocolate chips can reduce sweetness, while a pinch of sea salt on top adds a savoury balance. Reduce peanut butter chips or use unsalted peanuts to further tweak the flavour.
Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for reading! I hope you’ll try making these Slow Cooker Peanut Clusters—and I truly believe you’ll enjoy how easy they are and how wonderfully flavourful they turn out. The crunch of peanuts, the melt‑in‑your‑mouth chocolate, and the fun of scooping and setting clusters make it a joyful kitchen moment. Whether you’re whipping them up for a casual treat or gifting them to friends and family, they’re bound to bring smiles. Enjoy how simple (yet indulgent) this recipe is, and have a delightful time making (and sharing) your clusters. Happy cooking, and thanks for being part of our food‑loving community!
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Slow Cooker Peanut Clusters
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 40 clusters 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Peanut Clusters are an easy, no-bake candy made with peanuts, almond bark, and chocolate chips. These rich and crunchy treats are perfect for holidays, gifting, or anytime you want a quick dessert. Toss everything in your crockpot, stir, and scoop—no oven required.
Ingredients
4 cups peanuts (32 oz, dry roasted or cocktail peanuts)
16 ounces almond bark (vanilla or chocolate flavored)
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup peanut butter chips
Optional: 1 cup toffee bits
Optional: 2 tablespoons sprinkles
Instructions
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In your 6‑quart crock‑pot (or similarly sized slow cooker), layer the ingredients in the order listed: peanuts first, then almond bark, then chocolate chips, then peanut butter chips. Leave out the sprinkles until later.
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Cover the crock‑pot and cook on Low for 20 minutes.
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After 20 minutes, stir the mixture and cook for another 5‑10 minutes on Low.
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Continue cooking and stirring every 5‑10 minutes until the chocolate and almond bark are completely melted and smooth—stirring is important so nothing burns and everything combines evenly.
-
Once your mixture is smooth and fully melted, use a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon size) to drop rounded mounds of the mixture onto a sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cluster.
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If desired, top each cluster with sprinkles while they’re still soft.
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Allow the clusters to set completely before storing. This means leaving them at room temperature (or in the fridge if your room is warm) until fully firm.
Notes
Dry roasted or cocktail peanuts both work well.
Use chocolate almond bark for a richer flavor.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature, in the fridge, or freezer.
Line your slow cooker for easy cleanup.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cluster
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 4g