Day 2, Peanut Clusters

See below for directions on how to make these delicious treats.

Peanut clusters are super easy to make- just three ingredients.  This is a great recipe that only takes about 10 minutes to complete, longer if you have a three year old helping you.  The clusters freeze well and are also perfect for mailing.  We make them every Christmas as that's the only time we can find the almond bark at the stores.  I also stock up on the bark so I can make clusters whenever.  They are an easy treat to make for last minute get togethers or as a gift for someone.  Today's batch of clusters went to work with my husband where his co-workers happily devoured them.  (Of course, we kept a few at home for us to enjoy too.)  Here's the recipe...

Peanut Clusters
2 cups (12 oz.) semi sweet chocolate chips
1 package (16 oz.) candy coating or almond bark {It's basically like white chocolate in large blocks}
1 jar (16 oz.) dry roasted peanuts {We prefer unsalted}

Directions:
1. Pour chocolate chips and candy coating into a large microwave safe bowl.
2. Heat in microwave for two minutes.
3. Remove bowl with hot pads and stir chocolate.
4. Repeat steps 2 & 3 twice, (You'll heat the chocolate for a total of 5 to 6 minutes.)  Mixture should be smooth with no lumps.
5. Add peanuts to the melted chocolate and stir until nuts are well coated with chocolate.
6. Drop mixture onto wax paper lined cookie sheets.
7. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until firm.
8. Store in air tight container, no need to refrigerate.

Makes 2 1/2 to 3 dozen clusters.

How to make peanut clusters with a three year old:

"Ok, are you ready to make peanut clusters?"

Pour in the chocolate chips

Add the candy coating, and now you're ready for Mom's help.

Have your mom put the bowl in the microwave.

Now it's time to goof around while we wait.

Have Mom stir it cuz it's hot!

More goofin' while we wait for the chocolate to melt.

Oops, we put the peanuts in early, but they're supposed to
go in after the chocolate is all melted!

Now the clusters are ready to go on the cookie sheets.
"I hope I get to sample them soon!"

You can help Mom make the clusters if you are careful.

Now they're ready for the fridge.  I can't wait to try one!

It was a bit of an upset for K, but he had to wait till after dinner to have a cluster.  He did get to lick the spoon after all the clusters were made though.  Yum!

See you tomorrow for Day 3 of my 12 blogs of Christmas.