If you have a soft spot for sweet and salty snacks that combine crunchy pretzels, rich chocolate, and creamy peanut butter, then the Chubby Hubby Clusters Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. These delightful little clusters pack a punch of flavor and texture that’s simply irresistible, offering the perfect balance of salty peanuts and pretzels with gooey, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate and peanut butter. Whether you need a quick dessert for a gathering or a satisfying snack to enjoy anytime, this recipe is straightforward, fun to make, and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of familiar ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable flavor harmony. Each item plays a crucial part: from the crunchy pretzels adding texture, to the peanut butter cups offering bursts of creamy sweetness, every bite is a perfect mix of salty and sweet.
- 2 cups mini pretzels, roughly crushed: Adds a crunchy, salty base that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate and peanut butter.
- 1 cup salted roasted peanuts: Offers a rich, nutty flavor and extra crunch to the clusters.
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups (halved): Brings a creamy, peanut-buttery sweetness that melts in your mouth.
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips: Provides the smooth, chocolatey coating that binds all the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds depth and creamy texture, helping the clusters hold their shape.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter: Helps achieve that perfect silky melt and sets the chocolate smoothly.
How to Make Chubby Hubby Clusters Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Base
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze and prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the crushed pretzels, salted roasted peanuts, and the halved mini peanut butter cups. This combination creates the exciting mix of textures and flavors that define the clusters.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
Next, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and coconut oil (or butter) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring thoroughly between each interval until the mixture is silky smooth and fully melted. This luscious blend will coat every crunchy piece beautifully in the final cluster.
Step 3: Combine and Coat
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over your pretzel and peanut mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until every bit is evenly coated in that creamy, chocolaty goodness. Watching these ingredients transform is just as satisfying as eating the final product!
Step 4: Form the Clusters and Chill
Using a spoon, dollop spoonfuls of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet, shaping them into rough clusters—you want them a little uneven to keep that homemade charm. Pop the tray into the refrigerator for about 30 to 45 minutes until the clusters have fully set and are firm to the touch.
How to Serve Chubby Hubby Clusters Recipe
Garnishes
These clusters shine as they are, but if you’re feeling extra festive, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before chilling or drizzle some melted white chocolate for a contrasting swirl. Such simple additions add a layer of elegance and flavor that will really impress your guests.
Side Dishes
Serve these sweet and salty clusters alongside a cold glass of milk or a smooth cup of coffee to balance the richness. They’re a perfect party treat or a just-because snack that pairs well with almost any casual beverage.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or entertaining, arrange the clusters in colorful cupcake liners or wrap them in cellophane tied with twine. You can also layer them in a clear jar with ribbons for a charming homemade gift anyone would love to receive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chubby Hubby Clusters keep wonderfully in an airtight container stored in the fridge for up to a week. Keeping them chilled ensures the chocolate stays firm and the clusters maintain their delightful crunch.
Freezing
If you want to make a bigger batch or save some for later, these clusters freeze beautifully. Just place them in a sealed freezer-safe container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking, and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary for these clusters, but if you prefer them slightly softer, let them warm at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it could melt the chocolate excessively or cause the clusters to lose their crunch.
FAQs
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter is a great substitute and adds a slightly different nutty flavor while keeping the creamy texture you want in your clusters.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Chubby Hubby Clusters Recipe is vegetarian-friendly with no animal-derived gelatin or ingredients used.
Can I make these clusters gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free pretzels. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it an easy swap.
What are some fun add-ins I can try?
Chopped toffee bits or a sprinkle of cinnamon can add exciting new flavors and extra crunch. Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins that suit your taste!
How long does it take to make these clusters?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, and chilling takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, making it a quick and easy treat to whip up even on busy days.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something about the Chubby Hubby Clusters Recipe that feels like a sweet hug in every bite. It’s an effortless way to bring together a few simple ingredients and turn them into a snack that everyone will rave about. I really hope you give this recipe a try and find yourself as hooked on these clusters as I am — they’re perfect for any occasion, or just because life deserves a little chocolatey joy!
Print
Chubby Hubby Clusters Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 clusters
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chubby Hubby Clusters are a delightful no-bake treat combining crunchy pretzels, salted roasted peanuts, and mini peanut butter cups coated in a luscious mixture of semisweet chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and coconut oil. These easy-to-make clusters offer a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, making them an irresistible dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Cluster Base
- 2 cups mini pretzels, roughly crushed
- 1 cup salted roasted peanuts
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, halved
Chocolate Coating
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the clusters do not stick and set aside.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the roughly crushed mini pretzels, salted roasted peanuts, and halved mini peanut butter cups extensively to distribute evenly.
- Melt the chocolate mixture: Place the semisweet chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Mix coating with base: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the pretzel and peanut blend, stirring gently until all pieces are evenly coated with the chocolate-peanut butter blend.
- Form clusters: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping them into rough clusters.
- Chill and set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 30–45 minutes to allow the clusters to firm up completely.
- Store: Once set, transfer the clusters into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Consume within one week for optimal freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Add chopped toffee bits into the mixture for an extra crunch and sweetness.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt over clusters before chilling.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate on top of the clusters just before refrigerating for added visual appeal and flavor.
