Peanut Marshmallow Clusters

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If you love sweet treats that require minimal effort but deliver maximum satisfaction, Peanut Marshmallow Clusters will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. These bite-sized goodies combine creamy chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and soft, pillowy marshmallows for a texture and flavor trifecta that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re prepping for a party, filling a holiday cookie tray, or simply craving a no-bake indulgence, this treat checks every box.

These clusters are not only visually inviting with their glossy chocolate coating and studded marshmallow centers—they’re also irresistibly moreish. With the crunch of roasted peanuts balancing the gooeyness of marshmallows and the richness of chocolate, each bite is a satisfying contrast. Perfect for all ages, these treats are fast, fuss-free, and freezer-friendly, making them ideal for everything from last-minute gifts to lazy weekend snacks.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Marshmallow Clusters Recipe

• No baking required—quick and easy to make.
• Uses only a handful of pantry ingredients.
• A great combo of sweet, salty, crunchy, and chewy.
• Perfect for sharing or gifting during holidays.
• Kid-friendly and customizable with add-ins like pretzels or candies.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin making Peanut Marshmallow Clusters, it’s good to gather your tools. You’ll need a microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler for melting the chocolate smoothly—this is key to achieving that luscious, glossy coating. A rubber spatula helps mix the ingredients evenly without crushing the marshmallows, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper makes scooping and cooling the clusters clean and easy. You can also use a cookie scoop or spoon to form uniform portions.

Each tool plays a crucial role in simplifying the process and ensuring the final product looks polished and tastes perfect. Clean-up is minimal too—just another reason this recipe is a go-to favorite.

Preparation Tips

Make sure to use fresh mini marshmallows for the best texture—they should be soft, not sticky or dried out. For the peanuts, roasted and lightly salted ones add depth and contrast to the sweetness, but you can go unsalted if you prefer a milder flavor. When melting the chocolate, do it in short bursts if using a microwave—stir between each interval to avoid burning. Work fairly quickly once everything is mixed, as the chocolate will begin to set. And most importantly, don’t overmix—fold gently to keep the marshmallows intact and fluffy.

Ingredients for this Peanut Marshmallow Clusters Recipe

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or a mix of milk and dark chocolate if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother melting)
• 2 cups salted roasted peanuts (or unsalted if you prefer less salt)
• 2 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Workspace

Line a large baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. This will prevent the clusters from sticking and make clean-up a breeze. Set out all your ingredients in advance so the process is smooth once the chocolate is melted.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 20-30 second increments, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. If using a double boiler, melt the chocolate over simmering water, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.

Step 3: Mix in Vanilla (Optional)

Once the chocolate is melted and glossy, stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a subtle aroma and rounds out the flavor.

Step 4: Add the Peanuts and Marshmallows

Quickly fold in the roasted peanuts and mini marshmallows using a rubber spatula. Stir gently to ensure everything is well-coated but be careful not to crush the marshmallows.

Step 5: Form the Clusters

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them slightly apart so they don’t stick together.

Step 6: Let Them Set

Allow the clusters to set at room temperature for about 1 hour, or speed up the process by placing the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes.

Step 7: Serve or Store

Once fully set, the clusters are ready to serve! Transfer them to an airtight container for storage. They can be kept at room temperature for a few days or refrigerated for longer freshness.

Step 8: Customize if Desired

If you want to change things up, consider adding mix-ins like chopped pretzels, dried cranberries, or toffee bits. You can also drizzle white chocolate over the top once they’re set for an extra decorative touch.

Notes

Peanut Marshmallow Clusters are a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something special. You can make these clusters gluten-free by ensuring your chocolate and marshmallows are certified gluten-free. This recipe is also very forgiving, allowing for creative twists—like swapping peanuts for almonds, or using flavored marshmallows for a fun variation. They’re also ideal for involving kids in the kitchen due to their ease and lack of stovetop cooking.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overheating the Chocolate: This can cause the chocolate to seize and become grainy. Melt slowly and stir often.
• Adding Wet Ingredients: Any water or steam can cause melted chocolate to seize. Make sure all tools and bowls are completely dry.
• Overmixing: Be gentle when folding in the marshmallows. Overmixing can deflate them or make them melt too much.
• Not Working Quickly Enough: Once the chocolate is mixed with the peanuts and marshmallows, it will begin to set. Have your baking sheet ready and scoop promptly.
• Skipping Parchment Paper: Clusters will stick to the tray without a non-stick surface.

Storage Instructions

Store your Peanut Marshmallow Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just allow them to come to room temperature before serving to avoid excess moisture.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, approx. 2 clusters)

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 75mg
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 16g
• Protein: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate. Just be sure to use a good-quality melting chocolate for the best texture.

Are these gluten-free?

They can be, as long as you use certified gluten-free chocolate and marshmallows.

Can I substitute the peanuts?

Absolutely. Try almonds, cashews, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

How long do they take to set?

At room temperature, about 1 hour. In the refrigerator, 20–30 minutes.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! They store very well and are great for prepping days or even weeks in advance.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely. Chopped pretzels, dried fruit, or mini candies all make great additions.

Why did my chocolate get lumpy?

It may have overheated or come into contact with moisture. Melt gently and stir often.

Do I need to temper the chocolate?

Not for this recipe. These are stored cold or at room temperature and don’t require tempered chocolate to stay glossy.

Conclusion

Peanut Marshmallow Clusters are the perfect low-effort, high-reward treat. Whether you’re making them for a festive occasion or just craving something sweet and satisfying, their combination of textures and flavors is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and downright delicious—a true pantry staple dessert.

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