Introduction

These Salted Peanut Caramel Clusters are a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy. Wrapped in smooth milk chocolate and sprinkled with flaky sea salt, they make an irresistible homemade treat. Ideal for sharing or a special indulgence anytime.

The image shows a close-up of chocolate peanut clusters, with one cluster cut in half to reveal three layers: a dark brown, smooth chocolate outer shell, a middle layer of golden caramel, and a mix of whole and chopped light tan peanuts inside. The clusters sit in white paper cupcake liners on a white marbled surface. Around the clusters are scattered whole and halved peanuts and pieces of caramel, adding natural textures and warm colors to the scene. The chocolate has a glossy, slightly textured finish, and the caramel looks soft and gooey. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

11 ounces Kraft individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped (about 40 caramels, 311g)
¼ cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon heavy cream
3 tablespoons salted butter, sliced into pats
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 ½ cups salted dry roasted peanuts
3 cups milk chocolate candy wafer melts
1 to 2 teaspoons flaky sea salt (such as Maldon), for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Line two baking sheets with waxed paper, a silpat baking mat, or parchment paper lightly sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Place the unwrapped caramels and ¼ cup heavy cream in a microwave-safe medium mixing bowl. Heat at full power in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until completely melted.
Step 3: Stir in the sliced butter pats and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Continue stirring until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Add the salted peanuts to the caramel mixture and stir to combine. Let the mixture rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to cool slightly.
Step 5: Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop mounded tablespoons of the caramel and peanut mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Step 6: Refrigerate the clusters for 1 hour to chill before dipping in chocolate.
Step 7: Place the chocolate candy melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on full power for 45 seconds, stir, then continue heating in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and fully melted.
Step 8: Remove the clusters from the refrigerator. Quickly dip each cluster into the melted chocolate using a fork, tapping off excess chocolate before placing back on the baking sheet.
Step 9: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, substitute salted butter with unsalted butter and increase the flaky sea salt garnish slightly.
Try mixing in chopped roasted almonds or cashews along with the peanuts for a nutty twist.
If you prefer a darker chocolate, swap milk chocolate wafers for dark chocolate wafers for a less sweet option.
Make sure the clusters are thoroughly chilled before dipping to help the chocolate coat evenly and set faster.

Storage

Store your salted peanut caramel clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If refrigerated, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. They do not require reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows several chocolate clusters in white paper cups on a light brown surface with a white marbled texture. Each cluster has a rough and bumpy chocolate coating with a dark brown color. One cluster in the front is cut in half, revealing a rich interior filled with whole and chopped golden peanuts, visible through the glossy dark chocolate shell. Around the clusters, there are caramel square pieces in a deep orange color, scattered raw peanuts in their shell, and a few loose golden peanut halves. One cluster is topped with a sprinkling of coarse salt crystals. The whole scene is well-lit, highlighting the textures and colors vividly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of peanuts?

Yes, you can substitute peanuts with other nuts like almonds, pecans, or cashews depending on your preference. Just make sure they are salted and dry roasted for the best flavor and texture.

Can I prepare these clusters without a microwave?

Absolutely. You can melt the caramels and chocolate using a double boiler on the stovetop. Stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure smooth melting.