No-Bake Peanut Butter Pretzel Clusters are a crunchy and sweet treat that combines salty pretzels and creamy peanut butter. They are super easy to make and don’t require any baking!
These little clusters are perfect for satisfying your snack cravings. I love making a big batch and storing them for when the sweet tooth hits. Plus, they are great to share with friends! 🥨🥜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzels: Mini pretzels work best for this recipe. Their smaller size makes it easy to form clusters. If you don’t have mini pretzels, regular ones can be broken up as a substitute. You can also try gluten-free pretzels if you need a gluten-free option.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is ideal for a smooth mixture. If you prefer crunchy peanut butter, it will add extra texture. For nut-free diets, sun butter or soy nut butter are great alternatives that maintain the nutty flavor.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate is classic, but feel free to swap in milk chocolate for a sweeter treat or dark chocolate for a richer taste. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips if needed.
Brown Sugar: This gives the clusters a delightful caramel-like sweetness. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar with a tiny bit of molasses mixed in for flavor. Coconut sugar is another healthier substitute.
How Do I Melt Chocolate Without Burning It?
Melt chocolate carefully to avoid burning, which can ruin its texture. Using a microwave is convenient, but you can also use a double boiler method. Here’s how:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add chocolate chips.
- Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth. This usually takes about 1 minute.
- If using a double boiler, fill a pot with water and bring to a simmer. Place a heat-proof bowl with the chocolate on top, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water. Stir until melted.
Always stir gently while melting. If the chocolate gets too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to help it smooth out.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Pretzel Clusters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Clusters:
- 1 1/2 cups mini pretzels, roughly chopped or crushed
- 1 cup salted peanuts (or mixed nuts), roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Coarse sea salt or peanut bits, for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll spend approximately 45 minutes to have these tasty treats ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Pretzels and Peanuts:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped pretzels and peanuts. Stir them together gently and set the bowl aside for now. This mixture will provide the crunch for your clusters!
2. Melt the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, and brown sugar together. Stir constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved (this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes). Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost!
3. Combine and Form the Clusters:
Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the pretzel and peanut mixture. Stir quickly to coat everything evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, form clusters of the mixture (about 1 to 2 tablespoons each) and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them out so there’s room for the chocolate later!
4. Melt the Chocolate:
Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, heating them in 20-second intervals. Be sure to stir the chocolate in between each interval until it’s fully melted and smooth. This should only take a minute or two!
5. Drizzle the Chocolate:
Now, spoon or drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of each cluster. Make sure to cover them well. If you’re a fan of sweet and salty, while the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt or some crushed peanuts on top for a bit of crunch!
6. Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the clusters for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm to the touch. Once set, you can serve them immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Nuts?
Absolutely! You can swap in any kind of nuts you like—almonds, cashews, or walnuts would all be delicious. Just be sure to chop them roughly to maintain a good texture in the clusters!
What Should I Do If the Mixture Is Too Dry?
If your mixture feels too dry and crumbly, try adding a little more peanut butter or melted butter, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a sticky consistency that holds together when pressed.
How Can I Make These Clusters Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based butter substitute and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. Many brands offer vegan chocolate that works perfectly!
Can I Freeze These Clusters?
Yes! These clusters freeze well. Just place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving for the best texture.