These Instant Pot Chocolate Clusters are a dreamy blend of rich, velvety chocolate and satisfying crunch, ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy days or last-minute treats, they combine creamy melted chocolate with your favorite mix-ins for a bite-sized indulgence. The quick prep and chill times mean you’ll have a batch of these decadent clusters ready to enjoy in no time.
Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures—smooth, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate paired with a satisfying crunch. With just 116 calories per cluster, they’re a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring solo, these clusters are a must-try for anyone who loves effortless, irresistible desserts.
What You’ll Need for Instant Pot Chocolate Clusters
- 2 cups water (for the Instant Pot liner)
- 1 pound white chocolate almond bark (or candy coating), broken into small pieces
- ½ pound milk chocolate almond bark (or candy coating), broken into small pieces
- 1.55 ounces Hershey’s chocolate candy bar, broken into small pieces (optional for added richness)
- 16 ounces dry roasted peanuts, lightly salted
- 8 ounces whole almonds
How to Make Instant Pot Chocolate Clusters
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Place the Instant Pot liner inside the pot and pour in 2 cups of water. Press the SAUTE button to begin heating.
- Set Up the Double Boiler: Find a heatproof glass bowl that fits securely on top of the Instant Pot liner (look for one with a “lip” to keep it stable). Place the white chocolate almond bark, milk chocolate almond bark, and Hershey’s chocolate candy bar pieces into the bowl.
- Melt the Chocolate: Stir the chocolate occasionally as it melts. It should take about 7-8 minutes to become completely smooth and melted. (Tip: Avoid over-stirring to prevent the chocolate from seizing.)
- Add Nuts: Once the chocolate is smooth, add the dry roasted peanuts and whole almonds to the bowl. Gently fold them into the chocolate until they are evenly coated.
- Form the Clusters: Spoon the chocolate-nut mixture into miniature muffin liners or onto a wax paper-lined cookie sheet. For faster setting, place them in the fridge for about 10 minutes.
- Store or Serve: Once set, store the clusters in an airtight container or arrange them on trays for gifting. Enjoy!
Creative Toppings and Mix-Ins
Take your chocolate clusters to the next level by adding fun toppings or mix-ins! Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies, mini marshmallows, or colorful sprinkles on top before the chocolate sets. For a salty-sweet twist, try adding pretzel pieces or a pinch of sea salt. You can also swap out the peanuts and almonds for other nuts like cashews, pecans, or hazelnuts for a unique flavor profile.
Perfect Presentation for Gifting
These chocolate clusters make *fantastic* holiday gifts! Arrange them in festive tins or clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon. For an extra touch, include a handwritten tag with storage instructions. If you’re serving them at a party, display them on a decorative platter or tiered stand for a stunning centerpiece.
Storage Tips for Freshness
Store your chocolate clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If your kitchen is warm, keep them in the fridge to prevent melting. Layer them between sheets of wax paper to avoid sticking. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months—just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Quick Tips for Success
To save time, use pre-chopped nuts or buy candy bars already in bite-sized pieces. If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave (stirring every 30 seconds). For a smoother finish, ensure your glass bowl is completely dry before melting the chocolate, as even a drop of water can cause it to seize.
Fun Variations to Try
Experiment with different types of chocolate, like dark chocolate or butterscotch chips, for a new twist. You can also add dried fruit, such as cranberries or apricots, for a chewy texture. For a tropical vibe, mix in shredded coconut or macadamia nuts. The possibilities are endless—get creative and make this recipe your own!
Instant Pot Chocolate Clusters
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 pound white chocolate almond bark (or candy coating), broken into small pieces
- 1/2 pound milk chocolate almond bark (or candy coating), broken into small pieces
- 1.55 ounces Hershey’s chocolate candy bar, broken into small pieces
- 16 ounces dry roasted peanuts, lightly salted
- 8 ounces whole almonds
Instructions
- Place instant pot liner in instant pot. Pour 2 cups of water into the liner. Press SAUTE button. Place a glass bowl on top of the liner (you will want to find a bowl that has a ‘lip’ so that it can sit comfortably on top of the liner).
- Place the white chocolate almond bark, milk chocolate almond bark, and candy bar pieces inside the bowl. Stir occasionally, until completely melted and chocolate is smooth (takes 7-8 minutes).
- Add in the peanuts and almonds to the chocolate and fold in until they are completely covered in chocolate.
- Spoon mixture into miniature muffin liners or onto wax paper lined cookie sheet and allow them to set up (you can put them in the fridge to help them set up faster).
- Store in an airtight container or place on trays for holiday gifts.