These irresistible Peanut Clusters bring together the perfect blend of sweet and salty in just 42 minutes. With only 10 minutes of hands-on prep time, you’ll create these decadent treats that pack 9g of protein per serving. The simple yet satisfying combination delivers a delightful crunch, while requiring minimal kitchen effort. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these clusters offer the ideal balance of rich chocolate and nutty goodness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients for Peanut Clusters
- Chocolate Chips: 1½ cups high-quality semi-sweet chips like Ghirardelli for best results
- Peanut Butter Chips: 1 cup to enhance the nutty flavor
- Butter: 7 tablespoons, unsalted and at room temperature
- Creamy Peanut Butter: ¼ cup for extra smoothness
- Pretzels: 2 cups, broken into bite-sized pieces for crunch
- Salted Peanuts: 1 cup for texture and flavor contrast
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparation: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside
- Create Base Mixture: In a large bowl, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, butter, and peanut butter
- Melting Process: Microwave on low power for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler
- Mix Add-ins: Gently fold in pretzel pieces and peanuts until evenly coated
- Shape Clusters: Drop spoonfuls of mixture onto prepared baking sheets
- Setting Time: Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until chocolate has completely set
Storage Tips
These sweet and crunchy peanut clusters stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Keep them in the fridge if your kitchen runs warm – they’ll stay perfectly crisp and delicious! You can also pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying.
Quick Tips for Perfect Results
Melting chocolate can be tricky, but don’t worry! Use short bursts in the microwave and stir often – this stops the chocolate from getting grainy. If you’re using the double boiler method, keep the water at a gentle simmer and make sure no water splashes into your chocolate. Want extra-neat clusters? Try using an ice cream scoop for perfectly sized portions!
Mix It Up!
Love this recipe but want to try something new? Switch things up by using different nuts – cashews or almonds work great! You can also try dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet, or swap in butterscotch chips for peanut butter chips. Want more crunch? Add some crispy rice cereal or crushed corn flakes to the mix!
Serving Ideas
These clusters are perfect for holiday cookie plates or gift boxes – just wrap them in cellophane bags with pretty ribbons! They’re also wonderful with a cold glass of milk or hot coffee. Planning a party? Set them out on a dessert table with other sweet treats, or pack them for a special picnic surprise.
Peanut Clusters
Equipment
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Microwave or double boiler
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups semi sweet chocolate chips high quality (like Ghirardelli)
- 1 cup peanut butter chips
- 7 Tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups pretzels broken into pieces
- 1 cup salted peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, butter, and peanut butter.
- Microwave on low power for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 20 seconds, until smooth (be careful not to scorch the chocolate!) You could also put everything in a double boiler to melt.
- Add pretzels and peanuts to the melted chocolate mixture and gently toss to combine.
- Drop spoonfuls of mixture onto prepared baking sheets. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, or until chocolate has set.
