Salted Peanut Caramel Clusters

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Base

1. Grease a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Peanuts: Spread the salted peanuts evenly across the prepared baking sheet, creating small mounds or clusters where you want the final treats to form.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

3. Heat the Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula until the sugar melts and turns a golden amber color. This process may take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Butter and Cream: Once the sugar is melted, carefully stir in the unsalted butter and heavy cream. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so be cautious! Continue stirring until smooth and well combined.
5. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine and Cool

6. Pour Caramel Over Peanuts: Carefully drizzle the warm caramel over the peanuts on the baking sheet, ensuring they are well coated.
7. Let Cool: Allow the clusters to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until the caramel has set.
8. Garnish with Sea Salt: Once the clusters have cooled and hardened slightly, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top to enhance the flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Store

9. Break Into Clusters: Once fully cooled and set, break the caramel into individual clusters.
10. Store: Keep your Salted Peanut Caramel Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week (if they last that long!).

Tips for the Best Salted Peanut Caramel Clusters

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh peanuts and high-quality butter and cream.
• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips, pretzels, or other nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Be Patient with the Caramel: It’s important to stir the sugar constantly and watch it closely to avoid burning.

Conclusion

Salted Peanut Caramel Clusters are a delightful treat that combines the richness of caramel with the crunch of peanuts and a hint of sea salt. They’re perfect for sharing or for indulging yourself. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, these clusters are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy them as a sweet snack or a homemade gift that will impress anyone lucky enough to receive them!

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Enjoy making and sharing these delicious clusters!