Peanut Marshmallow Clusters

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Soft, gooey marshmallows, crunchy peanuts, and a glossy chocolate-peanut butter shell all come together in these irresistible Peanut Marshmallow Clusters. They’ve got that perfect mix of chewy, crunchy, salty, and sweet that makes you reach for “just one more” every single time.

These bite-sized candy clusters are ideal for holidays, bake sales, and last‑minute dessert cravings. You don’t need any fancy equipment or candy thermometers—just a few pantry staples, a microwave or stovetop, and about 15 minutes of hands-on time.

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Why You’ll Love These Peanut Marshmallow Clusters

Peanut Marshmallow Clusters are a dream for anyone who loves easy recipes that still feel special. They’re completely no-bake, so you can whip them up without turning on the oven, even on the hottest days or during a busy holiday cooking schedule.

The flavor is familiar and cozy—like a mash-up of peanut butter cups, Rocky Road, and old-fashioned church-basement candy. Each cluster has pillowy marshmallows, roasted peanuts for crunch, and a smooth chocolate coating that sets into a soft, snappy shell.

They’re also incredibly flexible. Swap the nuts, change the chocolate, or sprinkle the tops with sea salt or festive sprinkles. You can make them bite-size for gifting or slightly larger for a more indulgent dessert.

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What Kind of Chocolate Works Best for Peanut Marshmallow Clusters?

The best chocolate for Peanut Marshmallow Clusters is one that melts smoothly and complements the sweetness of the marshmallows and the saltiness of the peanuts.

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are a great all-purpose choice, giving you a balanced chocolate flavor that isn’t too bitter for kids but not overly sweet for adults. If you prefer a richer, deeper flavor, you can use dark chocolate chips or a chopped dark chocolate bar. For a sweeter, candy-bar taste, go with milk chocolate—it makes the clusters taste extra creamy and nostalgic.

Whatever you choose, look for good-quality chocolate that melts well. Adding a spoonful of neutral oil or shortening can help keep the chocolate silky and prevent it from seizing, especially if you’re melting it in the microwave.

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Ingredients for the Peanut Marshmallow Clusters

Before you start, it helps to understand what each ingredient is doing in this no-bake candy. In this section we’ll talk about the building blocks of the recipe, and then you’ll find exact measurements in the printable recipe card below.

• Chocolate chips – Form the glossy coating that holds the clusters together and gives them that classic candy-bar flavor.
• Peanut butter – Adds creaminess and a salty, nutty richness that pairs perfectly with both the chocolate and the marshmallows.
• Butterscotch chips – Bring a caramel-like sweetness that makes the clusters taste extra buttery and complex.
• Salted roasted peanuts – Provide crunch and a savory balance to the sweet chocolate and marshmallows.
• Mini marshmallows – Create soft, chewy pockets inside each cluster, giving them that Rocky Road-style texture.
• Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavors and adds a warm, bakery-style aroma.
• Pinch of salt – Enhances the peanut flavor and keeps the sweetness from feeling too intense.

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How To Make the Peanut Marshmallow Clusters

Once your ingredients are prepped, these clusters come together quickly. Set up your baking sheet before you start melting so you can scoop the clusters as soon as the mixture is ready.

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet or two with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This keeps the clusters from sticking and makes cleanup easy. You can also use wax paper if that’s what you have on hand.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate, Peanut Butter, and Butterscotch

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butterscotch chips. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. You can also melt everything together in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of gently simmering water if you prefer the stovetop.

Step 3: Stir in the Vanilla and Salt

Once the mixture is melted and silky, stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This quick step deepens the flavor and makes the clusters taste more like a candy-shop treat.

Step 4: Fold in the Peanuts and Marshmallows

Add the salted roasted peanuts and mini marshmallows to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until each piece is well coated in the warm chocolate mixture. Take your time here so you don’t deflate the marshmallows too much.

Step 5: Scoop and Shape the Clusters

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop mounds of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheets. You can make them bite-sized or a little larger, but try to keep them roughly the same size so they set evenly.

Step 6: Let the Clusters Set

Allow the clusters to rest at room temperature until firm, or pop the baking sheets into the refrigerator for faster setting. Once they’re firm to the touch, transfer them to an airtight container for storing or packaging.

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How Many People Do These Peanut Marshmallow Clusters Serve?

Because these are rich, sweet little bites, a small serving goes a long way. A typical batch makes about 24 medium clusters, enough to serve around 8–10 people if everyone enjoys two to three pieces.

They’re perfect for dessert tables, office parties, or gifting in treat boxes. You can easily double the recipe if you’re making candy tins for the holidays or need a big batch for a bake sale.

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How to Store Peanut Marshmallow Clusters

Peanut Marshmallow Clusters store beautifully, which makes them ideal for gifting and make-ahead entertaining.

For short-term storage, keep the clusters in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

If your kitchen runs warm or you like a firmer texture, store the clusters in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving so the chocolate can soften slightly and the flavors shine.

These clusters also freeze well. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag with parchment between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different nuts instead of peanuts?

Absolutely. Cashews, almonds, pecans, or a mixed nut blend all work well in these clusters. Just make sure they’re roasted (for flavor) and roughly chopped if they’re large. If you use unsalted nuts, add a small extra pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Do I have to add butterscotch chips?

No, but they add a lovely caramel note. If you prefer, you can replace the butterscotch chips with additional chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. Just keep the overall amount of chips the same so the clusters set properly.

Can I make Peanut Marshmallow Clusters ahead of time?

Yes, these are a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare them up to a week in advance and keep them chilled in an airtight container. They also freeze well, so you can make a batch long before the holidays or a big party.

How can I make these clusters look extra festive?

While the clusters look delicious as-is, you can dress them up with toppings. Try sprinkling them with flaky sea salt, crushed candy canes, colorful sprinkles, or a drizzle of contrasting melted chocolate. Decorate them while the coating is still soft so everything sticks.

Can I use jumbo marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

You can, but you’ll want to cut them into smaller pieces so they mix evenly with the peanuts and chocolate. Mini marshmallows give you better distribution and make the clusters easier to scoop into neat mounds.

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Want More Candy & No-Bake Dessert Ideas?

If these Peanut Marshmallow Clusters have you craving more easy sweets, try a few of these other favorites from Mad For Meals:

• Rocky Road Brownies – Fudgy brownies loaded with marshmallows and nuts for a classic chocolate-packed treat.
• Mint Oreo Truffles – Cool, creamy, no-bake truffle bites coated in chocolate.
• Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies – Oatmeal and peanut butter cookies that set without ever turning on the oven.
• No-Bake Turtle Mini Cheesecakes – Individual cheesecakes layered with caramel, chocolate, and pecans.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save these Peanut Marshmallow Clusters to your favorite dessert or holiday candy board so you can make them again whenever the craving hits.

And when you do make them, I’d love to hear how they turned out. Did you stick with peanuts or swap in another nut? Did you go dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or a mix of both?

You can also follow my Mad For Meals Pinterest where I share new small-batch treats, candy ideas, and quick desserts every day.

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