As you walk into a room filled with the sweet, rich aroma of melted chocolate and the crunch of roasted peanuts, you know you’re in for a treat. The delightful shine of the chocolate draping over fluffy miniature marshmallows and nutty clusters creates a visual feast that’s almost too beautiful to eat. Peanut Marshmallow Clusters have a way of instantly brightening any gathering, whether it’s a festive holiday celebration or a cozy afternoon with friends. I fondly remember making these with my grandmother, stirring the chocolate while she would toss in the marshmallows with a wink. Those moments carved sweet memories in my heart, reminding me of how simple ingredients can create joy and togetherness.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Peanut Marshmallow Clusters
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Peanut Marshmallow Clusters

Now, this recipe brings that nostalgia right to your kitchen! With just a few ingredients and minimal time, you’ll have your own delightful candy clusters ready to share—or keep all to yourself. Whether you pack them up for a bake sale, serve them at a party, or simply enjoy them on a rainy day, one thing is for sure: these clusters will vanish quickly. So let’s get started on creating your own batch of Peanut Marshmallow Clusters!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip these up in just 20 minutes, perfect for those last-minute cravings.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy chocolate with crunchy peanuts and soft marshmallows creates a heavenly taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: These clusters are as fun to look at as they are to nibble on—perfect for impressing guests.
Flexible Serving: Whether it’s a snack, dessert, or a treat for friends, these clusters are versatile for any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily modify to fit gluten-free diets by checking your chocolate’s label.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: A classic choice for a rich flavor. You can substitute with dark chocolate chips if you prefer a deeper taste.
2 cups milk chocolate chips: These balance the richness of the semi-sweet, adding sweetness. For a healthier option, try using carob chips.
3 tablespoons vegetable oil: This helps the chocolate melt smoothly, making it easier to mix. Can be swapped for coconut oil for added flavor.
2 cups miniature marshmallows: They add that beloved fluffiness. Large marshmallows cut into quarters work too, but the mini ones mix more evenly.
1½ cups dry roasted cocktail peanuts: They lend a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. You can substitute with almonds or cashews for a different twist.

How to Make Peanut Marshmallow Clusters

Prepare Baking Sheets: Begin by lining two baking sheets with wax paper. This step ensures your clusters won’t stick and will come off easily once set. Make sure every corner of the wax paper is smoothly pressed down for an even surface.

Melt Chocolate and Oil: In a large, heat-safe mixing bowl, combine the semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips with the vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each interval until the chocolate is fully melted and luscious. This method prevents burning and encourages smoothness.

Cool and Mix: Once the chocolate is melted, let it sit until it cools to a lukewarm temperature. This is important as it helps the marshmallows maintain their form. Then, gently fold in the miniature marshmallows and cocktail peanuts until they’re all evenly coated in the rich chocolate. It’s a delightful mix that will make your mouth water!

Scoop the Clusters: Using a 1½ tablespoon cookie scoop, form clusters and place them about 2 inches apart on your lined baking sheets. The clusters can be a little rustic; each one will have its unique shape, adding to their charm.

Chill to Set: Pop the baking sheets in the refrigerator, allowing the clusters to chill until they are completely set. This typically takes about 30-45 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they are firm to the touch. Anticipation builds as the chocolate takes its form, promising a divine treat.

Storing & Reheating

To keep your Peanut Marshmallow Clusters fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. You can even freeze them for up to three months! Just make sure to layer them between sheets of wax paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes or warm them slightly in the microwave for a melt-in-your-mouth experience, keeping in mind that some texture might change due to freezing.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overheating the chocolate; melting should be done slowly to keep it from seizing.
If you’re using chunkier nuts, chop them a bit finer to better integrate them into the chocolate mixture.
Perfect clusters come from gently folding the ingredients together without smashing the marshmallows.
For an extra special twist, add a pinch of sea salt on top right before chilling to balance out the sweetness.
These clusters are fantastic both small and large, so feel free to experiment with sizes!

When creating Peanut Marshmallow Clusters, I encourage you to get a little creative. Swap nuts or chocolates based on your cravings and preferences, or even add a splash of vanilla for extra flavor. Have fun with the process, and don’t hold back on sharing little bites of joy with friends and family!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give your clusters a deliciously rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the marshmallows. Just be mindful that it might make the clusters a bit less sweet overall, which some may prefer.

What can I substitute for cocktail peanuts?

If you’re looking for alternatives to cocktail peanuts, try using roasted almonds, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Each will give a unique twist to the flavor and texture of your clusters.

Do these clusters need to be refrigerated?

While they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container, refrigerating them helps the chocolate stay firm longer. If you live in a warmer climate, refrigeration is recommended.

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes! Substitute the chocolate chips with dairy-free chocolate chips and use a vegetable-based oil, ensuring all ingredients are vegan. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious clusters suitable for everyone.

More Desserts & Appetizers Recipes

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Peanut Marshmallow Clusters

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Lina
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 24 clusters 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No Bake
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

These Peanut Marshmallow Clusters combine rich chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and fluffy marshmallows for an irresistible treat. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening snack, they are easy to make and even more delightful to enjoy!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 cups milk chocolate chips
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups miniature marshmallows
1½ cups dry roasted cocktail peanuts

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with wax paper.
Melt Chocolate and Oil: Combine semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips with vegetable oil in a bowl and microwave until melted.
Cool and Mix: Let the chocolate cool, then fold in marshmallows and peanuts until coated.
Scoop the Clusters: Use a scoop to form clusters on the lined baking sheets.
Chill to Set: Refrigerate until set, about 30-45 minutes.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
For higher longevity, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Experiment with different nuts or chocolate for variations.