Why You’ll Love Rocky Road Peanut Clusters Recipe

This recipe is incredibly simple and quick — no candy thermometer or stovetop required. It uses pantry staples and comes together in minutes, yet yields flavorful, chewy, and crunchy clusters that everyone loves. Whether you’re making them for party favors, holiday tins, or just a sweet treat, these clusters deliver classic rocky road flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup semi‑sweet chocolate chips
1 cup butterscotch chips
1 tbsp vegetable oil OR shortening
1 1/2 cups roasted, lightly salted peanuts
1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows

Directions

Line a large baking sheet with waxed paper.
In a microwave‑safe container, combine the semi‑sweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and vegetable oil.
Microwave on high for 30 seconds, stir, and repeat until the chips are melted and smooth.
Quickly fold in the roasted peanuts and miniature marshmallows.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared waxed paper, shaping clusters as desired.
Refrigerate for about 15 minutes until the clusters are set.
Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 clusters.
Prep time: approximately 5 minutes
Total time: approximately 5 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

Chocolate Variation: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi‑sweet for a richer flavor.
Nut Swap: Substitute roasted almonds, cashews, or pecans for peanuts if you prefer.
Add‑Ins: Fold in dried fruit (like cranberries) or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra complexity.
Candy Mix‑In: Stir in mini peanut butter chips or toffee bits to give a twist on the classic.

Storage/Reheating

Store your Rocky Road Peanut Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 weeks. They don’t require reheating — just enjoy straight from storage when you’re ready for a treat.

FAQs

What if I don’t have butterscotch chips?

You can substitute additional chocolate chips or peanut butter chips; the flavor will change slightly but still be delicious.

Can I make these without a microwave?

Yes — melt the chocolate and butterscotch chips with the oil in a double boiler on the stove, then proceed with the recipe.

How do I prevent the marshmallows from melting too much?

Stir the melted chocolate mixture off heat and allow it to cool slightly before folding in marshmallows to help them retain their shape.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles well. Just be sure you have a large enough bowl for melting and mixing.

Are these safe for peanut allergies?

No — this recipe contains peanuts. Substitute another nut or seed if accommodating allergies.

Why is vegetable oil used?

Vegetable oil helps the chocolate and butterscotch chips melt smoothly without seizing.

Can I freeze the clusters?

Yes — freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What’s the best way to serve these?

Serve them on a platter at room temperature or packaged in gift bags or tins for holidays or parties.

Can I use flavored marshmallows?

Mini flavored marshmallows (like strawberry) can be used for a fun twist.

How can I make them less sweet?

Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi‑sweet, and consider reducing butterscotch chips slightly.

Conclusion

Rocky Road Peanut Clusters are a quick, easy, and delightful no‑bake treat that comes together in just minutes with ingredients you likely already have. With a perfect balance of chocolate, nuts, and marshmallows, these clusters are ideal for snacking, gifting, or satisfying your sweet tooth without fuss. Give them a try and enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness this recipe offers.

Rocky Road Peanut Clusters

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These Rocky Road Peanut Clusters are a simple no-bake treat made with just 4 ingredients! A delicious mix of chocolate, peanuts, and marshmallows, perfect for the holidays or any time you’re craving a sweet, salty snack.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes
Yield: About 40 clusters
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

24 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (or a mix of milk and semi-sweet)
4 cups dry roasted salted peanuts
3 cups mini marshmallows
2 tablespoons coconut oil (optional, for smoother texture and shine)

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Instructions

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth. Optionally, stir in coconut oil for a glossier finish.
Stir in the peanuts until evenly coated in the chocolate.
Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes, then gently fold in the mini marshmallows.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets.
Let the clusters set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

Notes

You can use a mix of chocolate types (milk, dark, semi-sweet) for a different flavor profile.
Add in other mix-ins like chopped pretzels or dried fruit for variation.
Letting the chocolate cool slightly before adding marshmallows prevents them from melting.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cluster
Calories: 140
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 60mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg