Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for an easy dessert that delivers big on flavor, this Crockpot Peanut Clusters recipe is for you. With minimal prep and just one hour of cook time, you can have a delicious, sweet, and salty treat ready in no time. The best part? You don’t need to babysit the stove—just set it and forget it in your slow cooker. This simple yet decadent recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, gifts, or whenever you need a quick, satisfying dessert. Plus, they’re made with ingredients you likely already have on hand, making them an affordable option.
Ingredients
- 24 oz almond bark, vanilla
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 4 oz German sweet chocolate, baking bar
- 24 oz salted peanuts
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Place the almond bark, chocolate chips, and German chocolate chunks into your slow cooker.
- Cover with the salted peanuts, but do not stir.
- Close the lid and heat on high for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, stir the contents so the peanuts are evenly coated with the melted chocolate mixture.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop a heaping portion and drop it onto a piece of wax or parchment paper.
- Let the clusters sit in a cool room to harden, or place them in the refrigerator for faster solidifying.
- Once hardened, enjoy your Crockpot Peanut Clusters!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 24 clusters
Variations
- Chocolate Variety: Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips for a different flavor.
- Nut Options: If you prefer, use other nuts such as cashews, almonds, or walnuts instead of salted peanuts for a different twist.
- Add-ins: Add a handful of dried cranberries, raisins, or mini marshmallows to the mixture for a fruity or fluffy variation.
- Holiday Twist: Add a sprinkle of festive colored sprinkles or sea salt on top of the clusters before they harden for a fun, seasonal touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the peanut clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: These peanut clusters freeze well. Simply layer them in an airtight container, separated by wax paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: There’s no need to reheat as these treats are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
How do I prevent the peanut clusters from sticking to the paper?
To prevent the clusters from sticking to the paper, use parchment paper instead of wax paper, or use a silicone baking mat.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate chips, or even white chocolate for a different flavor.
How can I make the clusters look more festive for the holidays?
You can sprinkle colored sugar, holiday-themed sprinkles, or edible glitter on top of the clusters before they harden for a festive look.
Can I use roasted peanuts instead of salted peanuts?
Yes, roasted peanuts will work well, but you might want to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness of the chocolate.
How do I know when the clusters are fully set?
The clusters are ready when they feel firm to the touch and have completely hardened. If you’re in a hurry, place them in the fridge to speed up the process.
Can I make these clusters in advance?
Yes, you can prepare these clusters ahead of time. They can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can melt the chocolate and almond bark in a double boiler or microwave and mix it with the peanuts. Then scoop them into clusters on parchment paper.
Can I substitute almond bark for another chocolate?
If you prefer, you can substitute almond bark with white or milk chocolate. However, almond bark tends to set up nicely and gives a great texture for clusters.
Can I use fresh chocolate bars instead of chips?
Yes, you can chop up chocolate bars into chunks to use instead of chocolate chips. Just make sure to adjust the amount to get the same total weight.
How long do these peanut clusters last?
When stored in an airtight container, they last up to a week at room temperature or longer if refrigerated or frozen.
Conclusion
Crockpot Peanut Clusters are the perfect balance of salty peanuts and sweet chocolate, making them a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious snack or dessert that everyone will love. Whether you make them for a holiday party or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these clusters will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe in your collection. Easy to make and incredibly delicious—what more could you ask for?
Crockpot Peanut Clusters Recipe
Crockpot Peanut Clusters are the perfect no-bake treat that combines the crunch of salted peanuts with rich chocolate. Made with almond bark, chocolate chips, and German sweet chocolate, these sweet and salty clusters are easy to prepare and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? You can make them with minimal effort using a slow cooker. Perfect for the holidays or any occasion, these peanut clusters will quickly become your go-to dessert!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 24 clusters
- Category: Dessert, Snacks, Holiday Treats
- Method: Slow Cooker, No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
24 oz almond bark (vanilla)
12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
4 oz German sweet chocolate (baking bar)
24 oz salted peanuts
Instructions
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Prepare the Pan: Line the bottom of an 8×8-inch pan with a double layer of cling wrap, making sure the plastic hangs over the edges.
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Layer Ingredients: Place the almond bark, chocolate chips, and German chocolate chunks into your slow cooker. Top with the salted peanuts, but do not stir.
-
Cook: Cover and heat on high for 1 hour.
-
Mix: After 1 hour, stir the contents so the peanuts are evenly coated with the melted chocolate mixture.
-
Shape Clusters: Using a tablespoon, scoop a heaping portion and drop it onto wax or parchment paper.
-
Set: Let the clusters sit in a cool room to harden, or place them in the refrigerator to speed up the solidifying process.
-
Serve: Once hardened, enjoy your Crockpot Peanut Clusters!
Notes
Prepare the Pan: Line the bottom of an 8×8-inch pan with a double layer of cling wrap, making sure the plastic hangs over the edges.
Layer Ingredients: Place the almond bark, chocolate chips, and German chocolate chunks into your slow cooker. Top with the salted peanuts, but do not stir.
Cook: Cover and heat on high for 1 hour.
Mix: After 1 hour, stir the contents so the peanuts are evenly coated with the melted chocolate mixture.
Shape Clusters: Using a tablespoon, scoop a heaping portion and drop it onto wax or parchment paper.
Set: Let the clusters sit in a cool room to harden, or place them in the refrigerator to speed up the solidifying process.
Serve: Once hardened, enjoy your Crockpot Peanut Clusters!