Rocky Road Peanut Clusters Recipe

Imagine a dessert so easy, so utterly irresistible, that it disappears almost as soon as you serve it. That’s exactly what happens every time I whip up a batch of Rocky Road Peanut Clusters! This crowd-pleasing treat takes less than ten minutes start-to-finish, requires just five humble pantry staples, and hits every happy note of chewy, crunchy, salty-sweet bliss. Whether you’re making these for a holiday platter, gifting them in jars, or just sneaking one from the fridge after dinner, Rocky Road Peanut Clusters deliver pure dessert joy with hardly any effort at all.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about Rocky Road Peanut Clusters is how such simple ingredients can come together to make something truly decadent. Each one plays a starring role—nothing extra, nothing wasted—so be sure to pick your favorites for the very best flavor and texture.

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These provide the rich chocolatey base that ties all the other flavors together. If you prefer a darker or milkier chocolate, feel free to swap it in!
• Butterscotch chips: Butterscotch brings a buttery, caramel-like sweetness that makes these clusters extra special and perfectly balanced.
• Vegetable oil or shortening: This little bit of fat ensures your chocolate mixture melts smoothly and stays shiny and luscious after cooling.
• Roasted, lightly salted peanuts: The nuts add amazing crunch and a touch of saltiness that keeps each bite from being too sweet. For extra flavor, use the best fresh peanuts you can find!
• Miniature marshmallows: Marshmallows are the heart of rocky road, giving these clusters their signature chewy pop and classic charm. Stick with the minis for the perfect mix.

How to Make Rocky Road Peanut Clusters

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Before you start melting anything, line a large baking sheet with waxed paper. This simple prep step is your secret to easy cluster removal and tidy cleanup later. It also gives your finished Rocky Road Peanut Clusters a smooth foundation as they set.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butterscotch

In a large microwave-safe bowl (I love using a big Pyrex measuring cup for easy pouring), combine your chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and vegetable oil or shortening. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir well. Continue microwaving in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until everything is melted together and silky smooth. You want a glossy, lump-free mixture—that’s when you know it’s ready!

Step 3: Stir in Peanuts and Marshmallows

Now for the fun part: quickly stir your roasted peanuts and miniature marshmallows into the warm chocolate mixture. Work gently and thoroughly—those marshmallows can be stubborn, but you want every nut and marshmallow to get a glorious coating of the chocolate-butterscotch blend.

Step 4: Form the Clusters

Grab a big spoon and start dropping heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. The clusters don’t have to be perfect—part of their appeal is that rustic, bumpy look. Make them as large or as dainty as you like, spacing them a bit apart so they don’t run together as they set.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Once you’ve shaped all your clusters, pop the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This quick chill sets the chocolate and firms up each candy so it’s ready for snacking, gifting, or sneaking straight from the fridge. When you peel them from the waxed paper, you’ll see that signature Rocky Road Peanut Clusters shine!

How to Serve Rocky Road Peanut Clusters

Garnishes

A few simple garnishes can take your Rocky Road Peanut Clusters from snack to showstopper. Try a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for dazzling contrast, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a few more mini marshmallows on top before the chocolate sets. Each option adds a fun twist and makes every bite even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair these clusters with a cup of rich coffee, spiced chai, or a tall glass of cold milk for the ultimate afternoon pick-me-up. If you’re serving for dessert, arrange them alongside a bowl of fresh berries or citrus slices—something juicy to cut through the chocolatey sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For gift-giving, pile Rocky Road Peanut Clusters in glass jars or cellophane bags tied with ribbon. On a party tray, alternate clusters with colorful fruit or other bite-sized confections for a festive look. They even make a fun no-bake “cake” if you stack and drizzle them with a little white chocolate!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Rocky Road Peanut Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week (if they last that long). If your kitchen is particularly warm, pop them in the fridge to prevent sticking or melting.

Freezing

Need to make a big batch ahead of time? No problem—Rocky Road Peanut Clusters freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with wax paper. They’ll keep perfectly for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat these clusters, but if you like them a little softer, a very *brief* zap in the microwave (about 5–10 seconds) will make them gooier. Just watch closely so the chocolate doesn’t over-melt!

FAQs

Can I swap the peanuts for a different nut?

Absolutely! Try almonds, cashews, or pecans if you’re craving a new flavor, or use sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Just make sure your chosen swap is roasted and lightly salted for the best taste.

Can I use white chocolate or dark chocolate instead?

You sure can. Substitute all or part of the chocolate chips with your favorite chocolate variety for a different spin on Rocky Road Peanut Clusters. Dark chocolate gives a more intense flavor, while white chocolate makes these super sweet and creamy.

What if I don’t have butterscotch chips?

If you’re out of butterscotch chips, you can use extra chocolate chips or even peanut butter chips for a fun variation. The classic butterscotch flavor is amazing, but don’t let a missing ingredient stop you from making these!

How long do Rocky Road Peanut Clusters stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container, these clusters will be at their best for up to a week at room temperature, or up to three months in the freezer. Keep them cool and dry for ultimate freshness.

Do I need to use waxed paper, or will parchment work?

You can definitely use parchment paper if that’s what you have on hand. Both options work to keep the Rocky Road Peanut Clusters from sticking and make cleanup a snap.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, all-smiles treat, it’s time to try Rocky Road Peanut Clusters for yourself. They’re quick, versatile, and endlessly lovable—the kind of recipe you’ll keep going back to, and the treat everyone will beg you to make again!

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