Here’s a sweet-and-salty treat that’s ridiculously easy to make: No-Bake Peanut Butter Pretzel Clusters! These crunchy, chewy clusters are perfect for snack time, parties, or a quick dessert fix—no oven required.
🥨🥜 No-Bake Peanut Butter Pretzel Clusters
📝 Ingredients (Makes ~18 clusters):
- 1 ½ cups mini pretzels, crushed into small pieces
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp butter (or coconut oil)
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (optional, for drizzle or coating)
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips for texture
🔥 Instructions:
1. Prep:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
- Lightly crush pretzels by hand or in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin (you want small pieces, not powder).
2. Heat wet mixture:
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine peanut butter, butter, and honey (or maple syrup).
- Stir constantly until smooth and warm—don’t boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt.
3. Mix & shape:
- Fold in the crushed pretzels and any optional add-ins like chopped peanuts or mini chips.
- Drop spoonfuls (1–2 tablespoons each) onto the lined baking sheet, shaping them into clusters.
4. Optional chocolate topping:
- Melt chocolate chips (microwave in 30-second intervals or use a double boiler).
- Drizzle over clusters or dip the bottoms before placing them back on the tray.
5. Chill to set:
- Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes, or until firm.
- Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week (or freeze for longer!).
🍫 Variations:
- Vegan: Use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pretzels.
- Extra crunch: Add Rice Krispies or crushed cornflakes.
- S’mores vibe: Mix in mini marshmallows + crushed graham crackers.