Are you craving a sweet and salty snack that's incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for homemade chocolate-covered peanuts is the perfect solution for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a fantastic recipe for beginners, a quick dinner dessert, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Get ready to experience the delightful combination of crunchy peanuts and rich, melty chocolate – it's pure homemade happiness!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted, your preference!)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips (optional, for a swirl of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable oil) – helps with melting and shine
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Peanuts
Ensure your peanuts are completely dry. Any moisture will cause the chocolate to seize up and become grainy. If using salted peanuts, consider how salty they already are and adjust the amount of salt you add later.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips (if using), and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as this can burn the chocolate.
Step 3: Coat the Peanuts
Once the chocolate is melted, gently add the peanuts to the bowl. Toss the peanuts until they are evenly coated with chocolate. You can use two forks to gently coat them, ensuring each peanut is well covered.
Step 4: Set and Enjoy!
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or fork, carefully place the chocolate-covered peanuts onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set. Once set, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week (if they last that long!).
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the taste!
- Don't overheat the chocolate: Microwave in short bursts to prevent seizing.
- Work quickly: Once the chocolate is melted, it starts to cool and thicken.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt: For an extra salty-sweet kick, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.
- Use different types of nuts: Try this recipe with cashews, almonds, or pecans.
- Add spices: A dash of cinnamon or chili powder adds a unique twist.
- Drizzle with white chocolate: For an elegant touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the set chocolate-covered peanuts.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the type of chocolate and peanuts used. A general estimate for a 1-ounce serving is roughly:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Sugar: 8-12g
This easy chocolate-covered peanuts recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying treat. It's a delicious homemade snack that's easy to customize and share. Enjoy!