Caramel Peanut Clusters whisk you back to sunlit afternoons in Grandma’s kitchen, where the scent of melting butter and brown sugar drifted through wooden shutters. One spoonful of silky caramel wraps around crunchy roasted peanuts, delivering a heavenly combo of sweet and salty bliss. A dash of warm vanilla extract and a sprinkle of sea salt heighten the flavor, while a drizzle of creamy coconut milk keeps it dreamy and dairy-free. Perfect for gifting or sneaking straight from the freezer, these bite-sized delights take minutes to whip up but promise endless smiles. Prepare to fall in love with every glossy, golden cluster.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Peanut Clusters
- Irresistibly crunchy and chewy in every bite.
- Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the fuss.
- Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
- Great for sharing or enjoying as a personal treat.
- Customizable with your favorite nuts or chocolate drizzles.
Caramel Peanut Clusters
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This will prevent the clusters from sticking.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Step 3: Continue boiling for 2–3 minutes without stirring. Watch it closely to avoid burning!
- Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely flavor!
- Step 5: Quickly fold in the roasted peanuts until they are evenly coated with the caramel mixture.
- Step 6: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming clusters. Don’t worry about making them perfect!
- Step 7: Allow the clusters to cool and set completely, about 30 minutes. Patience is key!
- Step 8: Store the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Caramel Peanut Clusters!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 25g |
Ingredients
Let’s gather the delicious ingredients for our Caramel Peanut Clusters!
- 2 cups roasted unsalted peanuts – for a crunchy texture
- 1 cup brown sugar – adds rich sweetness
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup – helps with caramel consistency
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – for creaminess
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – enhances flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a lovely aroma
How to Make Caramel Peanut Clusters
Making Caramel Peanut Clusters is a delightful experience! With a preparation time of about 10 minutes, cooking time of 5 minutes, and a cooling time of 30 minutes, you’ll have these sweet treats ready to enjoy in no time.
Step 1: Line the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This will prevent the clusters from sticking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
Step 3: Boil the Mixture
Continue boiling for 2–3 minutes without stirring. Watch it closely to avoid burning!
Step 4: Add Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely flavor!
Step 5: Fold in Peanuts
Quickly fold in the roasted peanuts until they are evenly coated with the caramel mixture.
Step 6: Form Clusters
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming clusters. Don’t worry about making them perfect!
Step 7: Cool and Set
Allow the clusters to cool and set completely, about 30 minutes. Patience is key!
Step 8: Store Your Treats
Store the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Caramel Peanut Clusters!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 5 minutes |
| Extra Time | 30 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 12 |
| Best Served | At room temperature |
Pro Tips for Making Caramel Peanut Clusters
- Use fresh, unsalted peanuts for the best flavor.
- Keep your caramel at a low heat to prevent burning.
- Chill your clusters in the fridge for a firmer texture.
- Experiment with adding a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty balance.
How to Serve this Caramel Peanut Clusters
- Enjoy them as a sweet snack on their own.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Use as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal for added crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to keep your Caramel Peanut Clusters fresh and delicious:
Storing Caramel Peanut Clusters Leftovers
- Allow clusters to cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer freshness, refrigerate.
Freezing Caramel Peanut Clusters
- Wrap each cluster in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place wrapped clusters in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label with the date for easy reference.
- Freeze for up to three months for best quality.
Reheating Caramel Peanut Clusters
- Let frozen clusters thaw in the fridge overnight.
- For a warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- Check frequently to avoid melting.
- Enjoy them at room temperature for the best texture.
Explore more easy breakfast recipes, quick lunch ideas, cozy dinner meals, tasty snacks, and delightful dessert.
FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What ingredients are needed to make caramel peanut clusters?
To make delicious caramel peanut clusters, you will need unsalted peanuts, granulated sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt. For a touch of sweetness, you can also add vanilla extract. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. These ingredients come together to create a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
2. What is the step-by-step process for preparing caramel peanut clusters?
To prepare caramel peanut clusters, start by toasting the peanuts in a pan until they are golden brown. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter and sugar together over medium heat, stirring until it reaches a golden caramel color. Once the caramel is ready, mix in the toasted peanuts and stir until they are well coated. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them cool until set. It’s a simple process that yields amazing results!
3. How can I adjust the sweetness or texture of caramel peanut clusters?
If you find the caramel too sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar or add a bit more salt to balance the flavors. For a chewier texture, cook the caramel for a shorter time, while a longer cooking time will yield a firmer texture. You can also experiment with different types of nuts or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost!
4. What is the best way to store caramel peanut clusters to maintain freshness?
To keep your caramel peanut clusters fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you live in a warm climate, you might want to refrigerate them to prevent melting. They can last for about a week, but I bet they’ll be gone much sooner because they’re so delicious! Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Final Thoughts
Making Caramel Peanut Clusters is a delightful adventure that brings back sweet memories! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a treat that’s both crunchy and gooey. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy the smiles that come with each bite. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!