No-Bake Peanut Butter Pretzel Clusters are super fun and easy to make! With crunchy pretzels, creamy peanut butter, and sweet chocolate, these treats are simply awesome!
What’s not to love? They’re salty, sweet, and perfect for satisfying cravings. I make these whenever I want a quick snack without turning on the oven. You’ll want to keep them handy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzels: Regular pretzels work great here, but feel free to swap in gluten-free pretzels if needed. For an added flavor twist, try chocolate-covered pretzels!
Peanuts: Roasted salted peanuts add a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a tasty substitute.
Creamy Peanut Butter: I love using creamy peanut butter, but crunchy peanut butter adds a fun texture. You could also use almond or cashew butter for a unique flavor. Just make sure it’s creamy for easy mixing!
Butterscotch Chips: These add sweetness, but if you’re not a fan, substitute with white chocolate or simply use more chocolate chips. You can also use vegan alternatives if desired.
Semisweet Chocolate Chips: I prefer semisweet for a nice balance of sweetness, but dark chocolate chips work well too. You could go for milk chocolate for a sweeter bite.
How Do I Ensure My Clusters Hold Together?
Getting those peanut butter pretzel clusters to stick together is key! When mixing, make sure you’ve fully melted the peanut butter and butterscotch mixture. This creamy blend helps bind the pretzels and peanuts effectively.
- After pouring the melted mixture, fold gently until evenly mixed. This should coat all pretzel pieces and peanuts well.
- Don’t skimp on chilling time! Allowing them to set in the fridge helps the mixture firm up.
- Use a spoon to pack the mixture tightly into clusters while scooping onto the baking sheet.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Pretzel Clusters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups pretzels, broken into small pieces (reserve some whole for topping)
- 1 cup roasted salted peanuts
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup butterscotch chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 1 hour to chill. In just a short time, you can have some tasty clusters to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pretzel and Peanut Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broken pretzel pieces and roasted salted peanuts. Give it a gentle stir to mix them well.
2. Melting the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the creamy peanut butter, butterscotch chips, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the mixture is completely smooth and melted.
3. Mixing in the Vanilla:
Stir in the vanilla extract into the melted peanut butter mixture and mix until combined.
4. Combining the Mixtures:
Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the pretzel and peanut mix. Gently fold the two mixtures together to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Scooping the Clusters:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon, scoop small clusters (about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each) onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced out a bit!
6. Adding the Topping:
Top each cluster with a whole pretzel piece for added decoration and crunch.
7. Chilling the Clusters:
Place the clusters in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to help them set slightly.
8. Melting the Chocolate:
While the clusters chill, melt the semisweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overheat!
9. Drizzling the Chocolate:
Take the clusters out of the fridge. Using a spoon, drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over each cluster to add a delicious layer of chocolate goodness.
10. Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the clusters with coarse sea salt for a delicious salty-sweet flavor combination.
11. Final Chill:
Return the clusters to the refrigerator and let them set for at least 30 minutes until the chocolate is firm.
12. Storing the Clusters:
Once fully set, store the clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They make for a delightful snack any time!
Enjoy your crunchy, sweet, salty, and creamy no-bake peanut butter pretzel clusters!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While roasted salted peanuts add a great crunch, you can substitute with almonds, cashews, or even seed mixes if you prefer nut-free options. Just make sure they’re roasted and salted for the best flavor!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make these clusters vegan, use dairy-free chocolate chips and replace the butterscotch chips with a vegan alternative or simply omit them. You can also substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter spread.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store your leftover clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This keeps them fresh and crunchy. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to add mini marshmallows, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of crushed pretzels on top for extra texture. Just keep in mind that adding too many ingredients might affect the binding of the clusters.
