Chinese Clusters
Sweet and crunchy chocolate clusters combining chocolate, butterscotch, chow mein noodles, and peanuts, perfect for parties or as a nostalgic treat for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chocolate and butterscotch chips in a 1 1/2 to 2 quart casserole.
- Heat on level 6 for 3 1/2 minutes or until melted. Stir until smooth.
- Stir in chow mein noodles and peanuts.
- Drop by teaspoons onto waxed paper.
- Let set until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you want a nut-free version, substitute the cocktail peanuts with sunflower seeds. To avoid clumping, ensure the chocolate and butterscotch chips are completely melted and mixed thoroughly before adding the chow mein noodles and peanuts. This recipe is simple, making it perfect for beginners.
Serving Suggestions
These Chinese Clusters are delightful on their own but can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. For a fun twist, pair them with a slice of Cream Apple Pie for dessert. They also make excellent gifts, especially around the holidays, when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a warm climate, refrigerate them to prevent melting. To enjoy them again, simply allow them to come to room temperature before serving. These clusters make great last-minute snacks for gatherings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Clusters contains roughly 33 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 different types of chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like peanut butter or caramel chips. Combining white chocolate with the butterscotch can also add a nice twist. Just keep the total amount of chips the same to maintain the texture of the clusters.
How do I make these clusters more festive?
You can add festive touches by incorporating colorful sprinkles or mini marshmallows into the mixture before dropping them onto waxed paper. This is especially fun for holidays or parties, making them visually appealing alongside other treats like O'Henry Bars(Candy).
Can I make these clusters ahead of time?
Yes, these clusters can be made a few days in advance. Just make sure they are stored properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They are perfect for preparing for events or gatherings, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
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).