Lori'S Peanut Clusters
Sweet and crunchy peanut clusters combining butterscotch and chocolate morsels with peanuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 oz. Toll House butterscotch morsels ⓘ
- 6 oz. Toll House chocolate morsels
- 12 oz. Spanish peanuts or 16 oz. cocktail nuts
Instructions
- Melt the butterscotch and chocolate morsels together in a double boiler until very soft.
- Mix well and stir in the peanuts.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto wax paper or tinfoil.
- Let them harden for about 1/2 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using semi-sweet chocolate morsels instead of the Toll House chocolate morsels. If you want a different texture, try adding crushed pretzels or dried fruits to the mix. Make sure to stir the mixture continuously while melting to prevent burning, and use a silicone spatula for easy cleanup. These clusters can also be made with almond or cashew nuts for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These peanut clusters are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat during movie nights. They pair wonderfully with a cup of Hot Spicy Cider for a cozy evening. You can also serve them as part of a dessert platter alongside other treats or enjoy them as a quick snack. For a fun presentation, arrange them in festive cupcake liners.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peanut clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a warm climate, refrigerate them to prevent melting. For best results, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other to maintain their shape. If they get too soft, place them in the fridge for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lori'S Peanut Clusters contains roughly 270 calories, with 11g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 639mg per serving (28% 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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Spanish peanuts or cocktail nuts are traditional, feel free to experiment with walnuts, pecans, or even macadamia nuts. Each nut will bring a distinct flavor and texture to the clusters, allowing you to customize them to your taste.
What should I do if my chocolate and butterscotch mixture is too thick?
If your mixture becomes too thick while melting, you can add a small amount of vegetable oil or shortening to help thin it out. Stir continuously over low heat until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it can alter the flavor.
Can I make these peanut clusters vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using dairy-free chocolate and butterscotch morsels. There are several brands available that offer plant-based alternatives. Just ensure that any nuts or additional ingredients you use are also vegan-friendly.
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).