These chocolate covered peanuts are a delicious treat that’s super simple to make. Just coat peanuts in melted chocolate and add a sprinkle of sea salt for a perfect mix of crunchy, sweet, and salty flavors that’s hard to resist.

For years my mom and I made candy every December during the holidays.  Nothing complicated was ever on the menu but we found out that it didn’t need to be.  Simple recipes, like these Chocolate Peanuts {and chocolate pretzels} were always a hit no matter where we took them.  If you are a chocolate lover, this recipe is perfect.

The truth is that everyone has a sweet tooth during the holiday season.  That is why we always turned to simple candy recipes to make great gifts.

I have found so many different occasions to make these chocolate peanuts. You can make a big batch for a party, pack them in cute jars for gifts, or keep a stash in your fridge for when you need a little pick-me-up.

While making homemade peanut clusters would seem complicated, it really couldn’t be any simpler.  

The best part about these chocolate-covered peanuts is the contrast of textures. The smooth, rich chocolate coating gives way to the satisfying crunch of the peanuts inside. And if you add that sprinkle of sea salt on top, it takes the flavor to a whole new level.

These peanuts are perfect for so many occasions. They’re great for movie nights, as an after-dinner treat, or even as a topping for ice cream sundaes. Plus, they’re so easy to make that you can involve kids in the process. It’s a fun way to spend time in the kitchen together!

Chocolate Covered Peanut Recipe Ingredients

• Melting Wafers: These wafers melt easily and create a smooth coating for the peanuts. You can use pure milk chocolate, velvety dark chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate wafers, or even white chocolate depending on your taste. For best results, use high-quality chocolate. I also use them for chocolate graham crackers.
• Lightly Salted Roasted Peanuts: Using lightly salted and roasted peanuts gives you a deep roasted flavor, and the light salt allows you to control the saltiness of the peanut clusters.
• Flaky Sea Salt: While totally optional, I love the texture and flavor contrast the flaky sea salt adds.

See recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

How to make Chocolate Covered Peanuts

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. This prevents the chocolate covered peanuts from sticking as they set. Add the chocolate melting wafers to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
2. Pour the peanuts into the melted chocolate.

3. Gently stir until all the peanuts are evenly coated.
4. Use a small cookie scoop {about 1 1/2 tablespoons} to drop mounds of the chocolate-peanut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle a small amount of flaky sea salt on top of each mound while the chocolate is still wet. Let the chocolate covered peanuts sit at room temperature until the chocolate has completely set. This usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once set, you can eat your homemade covered chocolate peanuts right away or store them for later.

Expert Tips

• Melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Chocolate burns quickly, so you don’t want to overheat it.
• Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. This prevents the peanut clusters from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Use a small cookie scoop for uniform clusters. This helps create evenly-sized peanut clusters and makes the process neater.
• Add the sea salt immediately after scooping. The salt will stick better to the chocolate while it’s still wet.
• Let the peanuts cool at room temperature. Rushing the cooling process in the fridge can cause the chocolate to bloom, so they won’t be as pretty.

Storing Homemade Chocolate Covered Peanuts

Storage: Keep the best chocolate covered peanuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week. If your home is warm, store them in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting.

Freezing: You can freeze creamy milk chocolate covered peanuts for up to 2 months. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Let them thaw at room temperature before eating.

Recipe FAQs

Do you love chocolate covered treats? Try these…

Desserts

Quick Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers Recipe

Desserts

Easy Chocolate Covered Pretzel Rods Recipe

Cookies

Easy Chocolate Chip Cookie Truffles

Desserts

Pecan Sandies Truffles Recipe

Did you try this recipe?
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