Carter Clusters
Carter Clusters are sweet, chocolatey peanut treats with marshmallows and roasted peanuts, perfect for snacking or sharing at parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sugar, evaporated milk, and butter on low to melt the butter, then turn to medium high and boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and roasted peanuts.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper and let cool to set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of salt or a splash of almond extract to the mixture. If you don't have roasted peanuts, try using chopped walnuts or pecans. Make sure to stir constantly while boiling to prevent burning, and if you prefer a softer texture, reduce the boiling time by a minute.
Serving Suggestions
Carter Clusters make a delightful treat on their own, but they can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon snacking. For a fun twist, try using them as toppings for cupcakes or brownie sundaes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Carter Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their chewy texture. If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating them to prevent melting. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just make sure to separate layers with wax paper to avoid sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carter Clusters contains roughly 886 calories, with 12g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (65% of the Daily Value), calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 589mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?
While sweetened condensed milk can be used in a pinch, it will significantly alter the sweetness and texture of the clusters. For the best results, stick with evaporated milk, which provides the right balance of creaminess without added sugar.
How long do these clusters take to set?
Carter Clusters typically take about 30 minutes to set once dropped onto wax paper. If you're in a humid environment, it may take a bit longer. Make sure they are firm to the touch before transferring them to an airtight container.
Can I add other mix-ins to the clusters?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Carter Clusters by adding ingredients like dried fruits, coconut flakes, or even cereal for added crunch. Just be mindful of the overall balance of flavors and textures to keep these clusters delightful.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).