Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these decadent clusters, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 pounds (about 900 g) roasted unsalted peanuts (you can mix with salted for contrast)
  • 1 pound (450 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 pound (450 g) milk chocolate chips
  • 1 pound (450 g) white almond bark or white candy coating
  • 1 pound (450 g) German sweet chocolate, chopped or in bar form
  • Holiday sprinkles (red, green, white, or multicolor) for decoration
  • Mini cupcake liners (red, green, or festive printed)

This combination of chocolates ensures a rich, creamy texture with a balance of sweetness and depth. The variety in chocolate types creates a flavor complexity that makes these clusters stand out from ordinary candy.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker (Crockpot) – A 5 or 6-quart one works perfectly.
  • Mixing spoon or spatula – For stirring as the chocolate melts.
  • Mini muffin tin or tray – To hold the paper liners for easy filling.
  • Small cookie scoop or tablespoon – For portioning the candy neatly.
  • Wax paper or parchment paper – To set candies if you’re not using liners.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Layer the Ingredients

Place your peanuts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Next, layer your chocolates — milk, semi-sweet, German sweet, and finally white almond bark — on top. Don’t stir yet! The layering helps the chocolate melt evenly without scorching.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and set your slow cooker to low heat. Let the mixture cook undisturbed for about 1 hour. Resist the urge to lift the lid early, as it allows condensation to escape and affects melting consistency.

Step 3: Stir and Melt Evenly

After one hour, gently stir the mixture with a sturdy spatula. The chocolates should be partially melted and blending together smoothly. Continue cooking for another 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture is silky and all the chocolate is fully melted.

Step 4: Prepare the Candy Cups

While the chocolate melts, line a baking sheet or mini muffin tin with your festive paper liners. These not only make serving easier but also add a cheerful holiday touch.

Step 5: Portion and Scoop

Once the chocolate mixture is smooth, use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop portions of the candy into the liners. Try to include plenty of peanuts in each scoop for that perfect crunch.

Step 6: Decorate with Holiday Cheer

Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle each cluster generously with colorful Christmas sprinkles. The sparkle of red, green, and white adds a festive finish that’s both fun and beautiful.

Step 7: Set and Store

Allow the clusters to set at room temperature for several hours, or refrigerate them for faster setting. Once firm, store them in an airtight container. They keep beautifully for up to 3 weeks at room temperature or longer if refrigerated.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Peanut Clusters

  1. Use quality chocolate. The better your chocolate, the richer the flavor.
  2. Don’t overheat. Chocolate can seize if cooked too long or too hot — low and slow is key.
  3. Experiment with add-ins. Try adding dried cranberries, mini marshmallows, or toffee bits for variety.
  4. Gift-ready idea: Package in clear cellophane bags tied with red ribbons for homemade Christmas gifts.
  5. Nut-free option: Substitute peanuts with pretzel pieces, crispy rice cereal, or sunflower seeds.