Ever had one of those snack cravings that hit fast and hard—where you want something sweet, salty, crunchy, and quick, all at once? That’s exactly how this Recipe For Maple Peanut Clusters came to life in my kitchen.
These little bites of joy are made with just a handful of pantry staples like peanuts, chocolate chips, and maple syrup, but they deliver huge on flavor.
Whether you’re making a quick candy fix for the kids or adding a festive treat to a party tray, these clusters are foolproof and packed with that comforting combo of peanut butter and chocolate.
I’ll walk you through everything step-by-step and even share a few tips and personal tricks I’ve learned along the way.
The Easiest Recipe For Maple Peanut Clusters
This Recipe For Maple Peanut Clusters is one of my favorite quick treats. Made with chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, crunchy peanuts, and real maple syrup, it’s a no-bake candy that’s perfect for gifting or snacking.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (just melting)
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Dessert / Snack
- Difficulty: Easy
- Yield: About 24 clusters
- Calories: ~130 per cluster
Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanut butter chips
- 1½ cups salted roasted peanuts (unsalted works too)
- ¼ cup real maple syrup
Ingredient Notes:
- Peanuts: I use roasted salted peanuts because the salty crunch pairs perfectly with the sweetness. You can sub with unsalted or even mixed nuts.
- Maple Syrup: Go for real maple syrup—not the artificial kind—for the best maple flavor in these maple nut clusters.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet adds a nice balance, but you can use milk or dark chocolate chips if you prefer.
- Peanut Butter Chips: These melt in with the chocolate to create that smooth and nutty base.
Instructions
Step 1: Melt The Chocolate & Peanut Butter Chips
Grab a large microwave-safe bowl and pour in the chocolate chips and peanut butter chips. Heat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth and melted. It usually takes about 1½ to 2 minutes total. You want the texture to be silky, with no lumps.
Chef’s Tip: Don’t walk away from the microwave—chocolate chips can go from smooth to scorched fast. Stir often and use a rubber spatula for even mixing.
Step 2: Stir In Maple Syrup
Once melted, stir in the maple syrup. You’ll notice the mixture thickens slightly. That’s normal! The syrup gives the clusters that warm, slightly earthy maple flavor that sets these apart from regular chocolate peanut clusters.
Step 3: Fold In Peanuts
Add the peanuts to the bowl and stir until every nut is coated with the chocolate-maple mixture. This part smells amazing—it’s where everything comes together.
Step 4: Scoop Onto Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to drop clusters onto the surface. Aim for about 1 to 2 tablespoons per cluster.
Step 5: Let Them Set
Pop the tray in the fridge for about 30 minutes until the clusters are firm. If you’re in a rush, 15 minutes in the freezer works too.
Tips To Avoid Overcooking Or Under-Melting
- Low and slow in the microwave is better than blasting it all at once.
- Stir often. Even if the chips still look solid, they might be melting underneath.
- If you overheat it, the chocolate will seize. If that happens, stir in a tiny splash of neutral oil (like coconut or vegetable) to smooth it out again.
How To Store Your Maple Peanut Clusters
Once set, transfer your peanut clusters to an airtight container:
- Room Temp: Good for up to 5 days if your kitchen isn’t too warm.
- Fridge: Keeps them fresh and firm for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Yes, they freeze well! Store in freezer bags and thaw for 5–10 minutes before eating.
Storage Tip: Place parchment between layers to stop them from sticking together.
Personal Touch & Expert Tips
I started making these maple clusters during a busy holiday season when I needed something quick but still “homemade.” The maple syrup was a happy accident—I was out of corn syrup and used what I had. Turns out, it gave the candy this deeper flavor that’s now my favorite part.
- Want a twist? Add a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling.
- More crunch? Toss in rice cereal or crushed pretzels with the peanuts.
- Dairy-free? Use dairy-free chocolate chips and skip the peanut butter chips—add a spoon of creamy peanut butter instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Honey Instead Of Maple Syrup?
Yes, but the maple flavor is what makes these stand out. Honey will work, but it’ll change the flavor profile.
Are These Peanut Clusters Gluten-Free?
All ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your labels to be sure.
Can I Make These On The Stovetop Instead Of The Microwave?
Absolutely. Just melt the chocolate and peanut butter chips in a double boiler over low heat, stirring often.
What Type Of Peanuts Work Best?
Roasted salted peanuts bring out the best flavor, but you can use raw or unsalted if that’s what you have.
How Long Do Peanut Clusters Last?
Stored properly, they last up to 2 weeks in the fridge and 2 months in the freezer.
Whether you’re prepping lunchbox treats for the kids or adding something sweet to your next get-together, this Recipe For Maple Peanut Clusters is a no-fuss favorite.
If you give this Peanut Clusters Recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment, share a photo, or tag me—because the best part of sharing recipes is seeing them come to life in your kitchens.
Craving more peanut recipe ideas? Check out my other quick candy recipes and keep that sweet tooth happy!
Homemade Recipe For Maple Peanut Clusters Guide
Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanut butter chips
- 1½ cups salted roasted peanuts unsalted works too
- ¼ cup real maple syrup
Instructions
Step 1: Melt The Chocolate & Peanut Butter Chips
- Grab a large microwave-safe bowl and pour in the chocolate chips and peanut butter chips. Heat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth and melted. It usually takes about 1½ to 2 minutes total. You want the texture to be silky, with no lumps.
- Chef’s Tip: Don’t walk away from the microwave—chocolate chips can go from smooth to scorched fast. Stir often and use a rubber spatula for even mixing.
Step 2: Stir In Maple Syrup
- Once melted, stir in the maple syrup. You’ll notice the mixture thickens slightly. That’s normal! The syrup gives the clusters that warm, slightly earthy maple flavor that sets these apart from regular chocolate peanut clusters.
Step 3: Fold In Peanuts
- Add the peanuts to the bowl and stir until every nut is coated with the chocolate-maple mixture. This part smells amazing—it’s where everything comes together.
Step 4: Scoop Onto Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to drop clusters onto the surface. Aim for about 1 to 2 tablespoons per cluster.
Step 5: Let Them Set
- Pop the tray in the fridge for about 30 minutes until the clusters are firm. If you’re in a rush, 15 minutes in the freezer works too.
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