Super Bowl Desserts Chocolate Peanut Clusters

Name: Super Bowl Desserts Chocolate Peanut Clusters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 24 clusters
Ingredients: 2 cups salted peanuts; 12 oz chocolate (dark or milk, chopped); 1 cup pretzel pieces (optional); Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Highlighted under: Soft Planning

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Peanut Clusters for the Super Bowl. They are so simple to whip up, and the combination of rich chocolate and crunchy peanuts is just irresistible. Whenever I bring them to a party, they disappear in minutes! The best part is that you can customize them with different types of chocolate or add-ins like pretzels for a salty crunch. If you're looking for a treat that's sure to impress your friends and family, these clusters are the perfect game day dessert.

Created by

Zara Ellington

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:16:37.017Z

During last year's Super Bowl, I decided to experiment with some quick dessert recipes, and these Chocolate Peanut Clusters emerged as clear winners. They took only 15 minutes to prepare and required minimal ingredients. I was amazed at how satisfying it felt to mix melted chocolate with crunchy peanuts, forming clusters that offered the ultimate sweet and salty balance.

What I've found is that using a high-quality chocolate really elevates the flavor. I have tried both dark and milk chocolate, and while both were delicious, the dark chocolate added an extra depth that truly wowed my taste testers!

        Why You'll Love These Clusters
        Quick and easy to make with minimal prep time
Perfect combination of sweet and salty flavors
Great for sharing at parties or gatherings
Customizable with various add-ins or chocolate types

      

Perfecting the Chocolate Melting Process

Melting chocolate might seem straightforward, but there are a few tricks to getting it just right. Using a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate in 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval. This helps distribute the heat evenly, preventing any burning. If you find chocolate pieces still unmelting, continue microwaving in 10-second increments until the mixture is glossy and completely smooth. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the chocolate to seize and become unusable.

If you're worried about even melting, consider using a double boiler instead. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer, ensuring the top pot does not touch the water. This gentler method helps maintain control over the temperature, allowing for a silky melt. Just remember to keep it on low heat to avoid scorching the chocolate.

Ingredient Customization for Unique Flavors

The beauty of Chocolate Peanut Clusters lies in their versatility. While salted peanuts are the star, experimenting with different nuts—like almonds or cashews—can add exciting flavor variations. If you're looking to cater to dietary needs, swap out the salted peanuts for unsalted versions to control your sodium intake. Combine various nut types for multi-textured clusters or incorporate dried fruits for a chewy element amidst the crunch.

Another fun twist is to play around with the chocolate type. You can use white chocolate for a sweet contrast or mix dark and milk chocolate for a balance of richness. Don't forget to factor in the sugar content, especially if adding salted pretzels or sweet dried fruits, to ensure a perfect harmony of flavors in your clusters.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Peanut Clusters

Ingredients

2 cups salted peanuts
12 oz chocolate (dark or milk, chopped)
1 cup pretzel pieces (optional)
Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start melting the chocolate to streamline the process!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped chocolate. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until completely melted and smooth.

Mix in Peanuts

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the salted peanuts (and pretzel pieces if using) until fully coated.

Form Clusters

Use a spoon to drop clusters of the chocolate-peanut mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Aim for about 1 tablespoon per cluster.

Cool and Set

Sprinkle a little sea salt on top of each cluster, if desired. Allow the clusters to cool and set at room temperature or in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Once set, you can store these clusters in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to a week!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the clusters once they've cooled. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and looks beautiful too!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Peanut Clusters are perfect for make-ahead treats! Once set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you notice the warm weather affecting their integrity, refrigerate them to keep their shape. However, be cautious about condensation forming when you take them out; this can affect their texture. To combat this, let them acclimate to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

For longer storage, consider freezing the clusters. Layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, just remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw at room temperature. This method keeps their flavor and texture intact while making sure you have a delicious snack ready whenever the cravings hit.

Serving Suggestions for a Game-Day Treat

These clusters can be a fantastic addition to any game-day spread. To elevate their presentation, arrange the clusters on a decorative platter alongside other snacks like popcorn or cheese boards. Use festive themed cups or bowls to serve them, making them easy for guests to grab and enjoy. For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over them before they fully set for a decorative finish.

If you’re hosting a party, consider creating a 'mix and match' station where guests can customize their clusters. Provide additional toppings like mini marshmallows, crushed cookies, or even spicy nuts for a kick. This interactive element can add excitement to your gathering and allow guests to enjoy a personalized touch in their snacking experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?

Absolutely! Almonds, cashews, or pecans would work just as well.

→ How do I store the clusters?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I make these clusters ahead of time?

Yes! They can be made a day or two in advance, which makes them perfect for party planning.

→ What type of chocolate should I use?

You can use either dark, milk, or even white chocolate depending on your preference. Each will give a different flavor profile!