These Merry Chocolate Nut Clusters are the ultimate festive snack, combining the deep, rich flavor of semi-sweet and white chocolate with the satisfying crunch of light salted peanuts. The addition of a tiny bit of shortening ensures the chocolate melts into a silky smooth coating that sets firm and glossy. Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, gift baskets, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth after dinner, these clusters are incredibly easy to make. They offer a delightful contrast between the sweet chocolate and salty nuts, making them irresistible. While the recipe yields a generous batch, they disappear quickly, so you might want to make a double batch to ensure there are enough for everyone.
Merry Chocolate Nut Clusters
Description
These Merry Chocolate Nut Clusters are the ultimate festive snack, combining the deep, rich flavor of semi-sweet and white chocolate with the satisfying crunch of light salted peanuts. The addition of a tiny bit of shortening ensures the chocolate melts into a silky smooth coating that sets firm and glossy. Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, gift baskets, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth after dinner, these clusters are incredibly easy to make. They offer a delightful contrast between the sweet chocolate and salty nuts, making them irresistible. While the recipe yields a generous batch, they disappear quickly, so you might want to make a double batch to ensure there are enough for everyone.Ingredients
Directions
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Line a baking sheet with wax paper or parchment paper and set aside.
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In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and shortening.
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Microwave on HIGH for 1 to 1-1/2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
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Stir in the lightly salted peanuts until they are evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
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Using a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
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Refrigerate the clusters for about 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm and set.
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 36
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1204.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 60.0g93%
- Saturated Fat 33.6g169%
- Cholesterol 21.6mg8%
- Sodium 57.6mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 144.0g48%
- Dietary Fiber 12.0g48%
- Sugars 129.6g
- Protein 12.0g24%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.