Homemade Chocolate Peanut Clusters are a delicious and easy treat to have on hand whenever you're craving something sweet. These chocolate covered peanuts are a simple recipe are made with semi-sweet chocolate chips and roasted peanuts in less than 15 minutes.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.
Melting the chocolate.
Double boiler method:
In a double boiler pot (or place a medium glass bowl in a large pot filled with just enough water so the bowl with chocolate chips starts to float slightly.) Add the chocolate chips to the top pot or bowl.
16 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
Heat uncovered over medium heat until the chocolate chips have completely melted, stirring often. Be very careful not to let any water droplets get into the chocolate or it will seize and harden.
Microwave method:
Add the chocolate chips to a microwave safe bowl and heat for 30 seconds. Then remove and stir. Repeat for 2 more 30-second intervals, stirring the chocolate between each interval. Again, be very careful not to over heat the chocolate. The chocolate will continue melting as you stir it after removing from the microwave as the bowl usually is still warm.
Once the chocolate is completely melted, add the peanuts, vanilla extract, salt, and raisins, if using.
Stir well until thoroughly mixed and all of the peanuts and raisins are covered with chocolate.
Scoop 1 ½ - 2 tablespoons at a time and place onto the prepared cookie sheet.
Then place they sheet the refrigerator for 1 hour or 15 minutes in the freezer until firm.
½ Teaspoon coarse salt
Notes
Add crushed pretzels.Swap the vanilla extract for mint extract.Use dark chocolate chips or bars, milk chocolate chips or chocolate almond barkOmit the salt completely, if desired.