No-Bake Peanut Butter Clusters

No-Bake Peanut Butter Pretzel Clusters are a perfect treat when you want something sweet and salty without heating up the kitchen. These clusters come together quickly and require no baking, making them ideal for a last-minute dessert or snack that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• One cup creamy peanut butter: the base for flavor and creaminess, use freshly opened for best taste
• Half a cup unsalted butter: helps bind and adds richness, unsalted lets you control the saltiness
• One cup powdered sugar: brings just the right amount of sweetness without grittiness
• Two cups mini pretzels roughly broken: offer the perfect crunch and salty contrast, mini size makes for easy mixing and bites
• One cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: melts nicely for drizzling, choose good quality chocolate for the best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Scoop and line:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or mini muffin liners to keep clusters from sticking and for easy cleanup

Melt together:

In a saucepan over low heat, gently melt the peanut butter and butter together, stirring constantly until smooth and combined, avoid high heat to prevent scorching

Sweeten and mix:

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the powdered sugar thoroughly so it blends into a creamy mixture without lumps

Add crunch:

Fold in the broken mini pretzels, making sure each piece is well coated in the peanut butter mixture to create a balanced texture in every cluster

Shape the clusters:

Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart but no need for perfection as they can be adjusted once chilled

Make the drizzle:

Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave by heating in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each to avoid burning and achieve a silky drizzle

Finish and chill:

Drizzle melted chocolate over each cluster with a spoon or fork, then place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes until the clusters firm up and chocolate sets

Save

Peanut butter shines as the star ingredient bringing both flavor and texture contrast. This recipe reminds me of cozy evenings when my family would gather around waiting for these clusters to set, always disappearing before the night ended.

Storage Tips

Store these clusters in an airtight container in the fridge where they will keep fresh for up to a week. If you want them longer, freeze in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Creamy peanut butter can be swapped for almond or cashew butter for a different but equally delicious twist. Salted butter can be used but reduce added salt if you add extra toppings. If you prefer, dark chocolate chips or white chocolate work well instead of semi-sweet. Pretzel pieces can be replaced by crushed graham crackers or crispy rice cereal for a new crunch experience.

Serving Suggestions

These clusters are fantastic on their own as a snack or dessert. Pair them with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a complete treat. You can also crumble them over ice cream or yogurt to add a sweet and salty crunch topping. Consider packing a few in a lunchbox for a fun afternoon pick-me-up.

Pro Tips

• Make sure not to overheat the peanut butter and butter mixture to avoid burning and separation
• Use mini pretzels for the best texture and easier mixing
• Drizzle chocolate while slightly warm for the prettiest finish and best adhesion

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pretzels work best in these clusters?

Mini pretzels that are roughly broken provide the perfect crunch and texture, creating a balanced bite in the clusters.

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Creamy peanut butter helps bind the mixture smoothly, but crunchy peanut butter can add extra texture if preferred.

→ How long do the clusters need to chill before serving?

Allow at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to set the clusters firmly for easy handling and serving.

→ Is it possible to substitute the butter with a different fat?

Unsalted butter provides flavor and smoothness, but alternatives like coconut oil can be experimented with, keeping in mind changes to texture and taste.

→ How should these clusters be stored to maintain freshness?

Store the clusters in an airtight container in the fridge; they remain fresh for up to one week.