This Rocky Road Peanut Clusters recipe has been my easy go-to for last-minute celebrations and cozy afternoons. I discovered the combination while rummaging through a pantry one holiday season when friends dropped by unexpectedly; with chocolate and marshmallows on hand, I improvised, and the result was an instant hit. The clusters strike a joyful balance between creamy melted chocolate and butterscotch, crunchy roasted peanuts, and pillowy miniature marshmallows. They set quickly, travel well, and are one of those simple treats that always prompt a second round.

What makes these clusters special is their versatility. You can scale the mixture up for a crowd or keep it small for a quiet night with tea. Texture is the star: the snap and shine of melted chips, the satisfying chew of peanuts, and the soft pockets of marshmallow that contrast beautifully. I love making a double batch for holiday tins and keeping a small plate in the fridge for unexpected guests. The smell alone — warm chocolate and brown-sugar notes from the butterscotch — immediately feels festive.

Ingredients

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Choose good-quality chips from a brand you trust for better melt and flavor. I often use Ghirardelli or Nestlé, which melt smoothly without seizing.
• Butterscotch chips (1 cup): These add warm, caramel-like notes that pair beautifully with peanuts. If you prefer a less sweet profile, reduce to 3/4 cup and add 1/4 cup additional semi-sweet chips.
• Vegetable oil or shortening (1 tbsp): A small amount of neutral oil gives the melted chips a silkier texture and helps the clusters set with a glossy finish. Shortening works well if you want a slightly firmer set.
• Roasted, lightly salted peanuts (1 1/2 cups): Use roasted, lightly salted peanuts for contrast between sweet and savory. Roughly chop if you want smaller, more even clusters, or leave whole for extra crunch.
• Miniature marshmallows (1 1/2 cups): Mini marshmallows incorporate easily and provide sweet, soft pockets. Try Jet-Puffed or store-brand minis; fresh marshmallows make for the most tender texture.

Instructions

Line a baking sheet: Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with waxed paper or parchment. This prevents sticking and makes transferring clusters to storage effortless. Choose a rimmed sheet to avoid any spills; set aside within easy reach of your microwave. Melt the chips: Combine 1 cup semi-sweet chips, 1 cup butterscotch chips, and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a microwave-safe container such as a Pyrex measuring cup. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, stir thoroughly, then return to the microwave in 15- to 20-second bursts, stirring each time until completely smooth. Aim for a glossy sheen; overheating can cause the chocolate to seize and become grainy. Fold in peanuts and marshmallows: Quickly fold in 1 1/2 cups roasted peanuts and 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows while the chips are still warm and pourable. Work swiftly so the marshmallows don't fully melt—there should be soft pockets of marshmallow for texture contrast. Use a sturdy spatula to combine without deflating too much of the air from the marshmallows. Portion the clusters: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a cookie scoop or two spoons to form even mounds; size is up to you, though 1- to 1.5-tablespoon portions yield about 24 clusters. Press the tops lightly if you prefer flatter clusters, or leave them rounded for a rustic look. Chill and set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the clusters for approximately 15 minutes, or until set through. For faster results, split into two trays to increase surface area. Once firm, transfer to an airtight container and store as desired.

Storage Tips

Store clusters in an airtight container layered with parchment to prevent sticking. At room temperature in a cool pantry they keep well for up to 2 weeks; refrigeration extends freshness but can make the chocolate firmer and less glossy. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer until solid, then stack with parchment between layers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator to avoid condensation forming on the chocolate surface.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have butterscotch chips, replace with an equal amount of milk chocolate or white chocolate chips. Swap peanuts for roasted almonds, cashews, or pistachios for a different flavor profile; adjust salt level if nuts are salted. For a dairy-free option, choose dairy-free chocolate and dairy-free butterscotch alternatives and ensure marshmallows are vegan if available. Reduce chips slightly if you prefer a nuttier, less sweet cluster.

Serving Suggestions

Serve clusters on a platter with napkins for parties, or pack them into small cellophane bags and tie with twine for gifts. They pair wonderfully with black coffee, bitter hot chocolate, or a tangy citrus cocktail that cuts through the richness. Garnish with a light dusting of sea salt or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a refined presentation.

Cultural Background

Rocky road is a classic Americana treat that originally combined chocolate with marshmallows and nuts to create a textured candy experience. The style has evolved into countless variations — from ice cream flavors to candy clusters like these. The juxtaposition of marshmallow and nuts celebrates contrasts in texture, a theme that appears in many comfort confections across cultures.

Seasonal Adaptations

Adapt the clusters for seasons: fold in red and green sprinkles for winter holidays, or add dried cranberries and a pinch of cinnamon for autumnal warmth. In summer, coat the clusters in a thin layer of melted dark chocolate and refrigerate for a firmer bite. For Valentine’s Day, swap peanuts for toasted hazelnuts and finish with a pink-hued white chocolate drizzle.

Meal Prep Tips

Make a double batch and portion into individual snack bags for grab-and-go treats. Keep one airtight tin at home and one in the freezer for guests. If prepping for a party, make clusters a day ahead and store chilled; bring to room temperature 20 minutes before serving to restore softness to the marshmallows.

These clusters are simple, forgiving, and endlessly adaptable — a small batch of joy you can pull together with pantry basics. Give them a try and tweak to make them your own; the basic technique welcomes creativity.