Salted Peanut Caramel Clusters

Salted Peanut Caramel Clusters are the ultimate sweet and salty snack that come together with minimal fuss and no need to turn on the oven. This recipe brings together chewy caramel, crunchy peanuts, and silky chocolate for a treat perfect for sharing at holidays or boxing up as homemade gifts.

I first made a batch for a holiday cookie tray and watched them disappear faster than anything else. Now they are a must for every family party because both kids and adults sneak extras for themselves.

Ingredients

• Kraft wrapped caramels: These give consistent melt and caramel flavor Pick the softest caramels for easiest melting
• Heavy cream: This keeps the caramel mixture soft and scoopable Use full-fat for best results
• Salted butter: Adds rich flavor and helps bind the mixture Room temperature butter blends in smoother
• Pure vanilla extract: Brightens all the flavors for that classic candy shop taste Choose real vanilla for the best aroma
• Salted dry roasted peanuts: The star of the clusters Look for fresh peanuts with a strong roasted aroma for maximum crunch
• Milk chocolate candy wafer melts: These melt smoothly and set up with a glossy finish Use a chocolate brand you love to eat
• Flaky sea salt: Optional but makes every bite pop Choose a sea salt with large flakes like Maldon for best presentation

Step-by-Step Instructions

Line Baking Sheets:

Line two baking sheets with waxed paper or a silicone baking mat and lightly spray with cooking spray to help clusters release easily

Melt the Caramels:

Combine unwrapped caramels and heavy cream in a microwave safe bowl and heat in short 30 second bursts stirring very well between each until melted and smooth This can take two to three minutes total

Incorporate Butter and Vanilla:

Add the sliced butter and vanilla stir gently until the butter melts and entire mixture is silky Don’t rush or overheat

Mix in Peanuts and Rest:

Stir in the salted peanuts making sure every nut is coated Let the bowl sit at room temperature for thirty minutes so the mixture thickens and scoops neatly

Scoop Clusters:

Use a one tablespoon cookie scoop to mound portions of caramel peanut mixture spacing them two inches apart on the lined baking sheets Keep scoops as even as possible

Chill the Clusters:

Transfer the trays to the refrigerator and chill for one hour This step helps clusters hold their shape during dipping

Melt Chocolate:

Place chocolate wafer melts in a clean microwave safe bowl Heat in forty five second intervals stirring well then finish in thirty second bursts until melted Stir until glossy and fully smooth

Dip and Finish:

Drop each chilled cluster in the melted chocolate use a fork to roll and coat well then lift out letting excess drip off Set on trays While chocolate is still wet sprinkle with flaky sea salt

Set and Serve:

Let the clusters sit at room temperature so the chocolate firms up completely This can take up to one hour Enjoy once chocolate is no longer sticky

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My favorite part of this recipe is how sea salt on top ties all the flavors together Nothing brings me back to childhood faster than sneaking an extra cluster from the fridge after school with my sister.

Storage Tips

Keep clusters in a cool dry spot in a tightly sealed container so they stay fresh and do not soften For longer storage place in a single layer in freezer safe bags Freezing does not affect the texture Let them reach room temperature before serving for the smoothest caramel

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Kraft caramels any soft wrapped caramel brand works as long as it melts well For nut allergies try roasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds in place of peanuts Semisweet or dark chocolate melting wafers add a richer chocolate note if you prefer less sweetness

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Serving Suggestions

Cluster candies are perfect on dessert platters with cookies and fudge or for pairing with a strong cup of coffee I love wrapping them in wax paper with a color ribbon for easy holiday gifting Kids enjoy helping dip and decorate with sprinkles or more crushed peanuts for variety

A Peek Into Candy Traditions

No bake candies like these are rooted in American holiday sweets where easy gifting and big flavor are prized Salted caramel itself is a classic flavor born from French pastry later becoming a staple in American baking

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Cashews or almonds can be substituted for peanuts, providing a different but equally delicious crunch and flavor profile.

→ What’s the best way to melt the chocolate?

A microwave works well in short bursts, but you can also use a double boiler to gently melt the chocolate chips or candy melts until smooth.

→ How do I keep the caramel mixture from sticking?

Spoon the caramel-peanut mixture with a cookie scoop lightly coated in nonstick spray, and chill clusters before dipping for easier handling.

→ Can the clusters be made ahead of time?

Yes, these clusters keep well in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for up to one week.

→ Is flaky sea salt necessary?

Flaky sea salt enhances both flavor and texture, adding a subtle crunch and balancing the sweetness, but feel free to omit if preferred.

→ Can I use homemade caramel?

Homemade caramel can definitely be used, just make sure it has a thick yet scoopable consistency to hold the peanuts together.