Peanut Caramel Clusters Recipe: A Perfect Sweet Treat
Ingredients:
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 3/4 cup sugar (160g)
- 1/4 cup water (80ml)
- 3/4 cup whipping cream (200ml)
- 4 1/4 tablespoons unsalted butter (60g)
For the Clusters:
- 2 1/2 cups salted or unsalted roasted peanuts (400g)
- 200g milk chocolate
- 30g dark chocolate (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves. Increase the heat and allow the mixture to boil without stirring. Let it cook until it turns a rich amber color, which should take around 10 minutes. Carefully pour in the whipping cream (be cautious, as it will bubble). Stir until the mixture becomes smooth, then remove from the heat. Add the butter, stirring until it’s completely melted and well combined. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Peanuts:
Place the roasted peanuts in a large mixing bowl.
3. Coat the Peanuts:
Pour the slightly cooled caramel sauce over the peanuts. Stir well until all the peanuts are evenly coated in the caramel.
4. Shape the Clusters:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the caramel-coated peanuts onto the sheet, forming clusters.
5. Melt the Chocolate:
Chop the milk chocolate and melt it either using a double boiler (placing the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water) or by microwaving it in 20-second intervals, stirring after each round until smooth. Once melted, drizzle the milk chocolate over the clusters.
6. Garnish (Optional):
If you’d like an extra decorative touch, melt the dark chocolate using the same method as the milk chocolate and drizzle it over the clusters.
7. Set and Serve:
Let the clusters set at room temperature, or refrigerate them to speed up the process. Once set, store them in an airtight container, either at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich and Indulgent: The delightful blend of caramel, peanuts, and chocolate results in an irresistibly decadent treat.
- Simple to Make: With minimal ingredients and clear instructions, this recipe is perfect for cooks of any level.
- Great for Gifting: These clusters make thoughtful and delicious homemade gifts for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Peanut Caramel Clusters with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy snack.
- Add them to a dessert platter alongside cookies and fruit for an impressive party display.
- Crumble them over vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Package them in decorative bags or boxes as a thoughtful gift for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions.
Conclusion:
Peanut Caramel Clusters are the perfect blend of crunchy roasted peanuts, smooth caramel, and rich chocolate. These bite-sized treats are great for sharing or enjoying when you’re craving something sweet and satisfying. Easy to prepare and versatile, they’re ideal for parties, gifting, or simply treating yourself. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a snack on their own, these clusters are sure to be a hit!
