Description
Christmas M&M Peanut Butter Clusters are a festive, no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and colorful Christmas M&M’s. These easy-to-make clusters offer a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, with an optional crunch from salted peanuts. Ready in just 15 minutes plus chilling time, they make a delightful holiday snack or gift.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup Christmas colored M&M’s
- 1/2 cup salted peanuts (optional, for extra crunch)
Instructions
- Melt ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the peanut butter, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and unsalted butter. Melt them over low heat while stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add powdered sugar: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the powdered sugar until it is fully incorporated into the melted mixture, creating a thick and creamy blend.
- Cool and fold in mix-ins: Let the mixture cool for a few minutes to thicken slightly, then gently fold in the Christmas colored M&M’s and optional salted peanuts to distribute evenly without melting the candies.
- Form clusters: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, shaping them into small clusters for easy portioning.
- Chill to set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or until the clusters have hardened completely.
- Serve or store: Serve the peanut butter clusters immediately once set, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week to keep fresh.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, be sure to include the salted peanuts; omit if nut allergies are a concern.
- Use Christmas colored M&M’s to add a festive appearance perfect for holiday gatherings.
- You can substitute creamy peanut butter with natural peanut butter, but the texture may vary slightly.
- Clusters can be stored in the freezer for longer shelf life and thawed before serving.
- Make sure to use low heat while melting to avoid burning the chocolate or peanut butter.
