Crispy Chocolate & Peanut Butter Cereal Clusters

So I’ve got the adults covered this Valentine’s Day with my Flourless Chocolate Cake with Raspberry Sauce for Two; now it’s the kids’ turn.

These crispy cereal clusters are a cinch to pull together, and what kid (or adult, for that matter) doesn’t love the peanut butter & chocolate combination? I used dark chocolate chips, but milk or white chocolate might appeal more to the kiddos.

This might be the most challenging recipe I’ve photographed for the blog, and the lone photo in this post is the only one where the clusters looked remotely appetizing. I promise you they taste much better than they look!

Keywords: dessert chocolate peanut butter

Ingredients (4 servings)

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (I used dark chocolate chips)
• 1 tsp coconut oil
• 2 Tbsp all-natural smooth peanut butter, well-mixed and at room temperature (I used salted unsweetened peanut butter)
• 4 cups cereal of choice (I used Rice Chex)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Measure out the crispy rice cereal and set it aside in a large mixing bowl.

In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter, chocolate chips, honey, and unsalted butter.

2. Microwave the Mixture

Microwave the peanut butter, chocolate chips, honey, and butter mixture on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until everything is smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overheat it; you just want it to be melted and easy to mix.

3. Add Flavor

Stir in the vanilla extract and salt into the melted mixture. This will enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness.

4. Combine with Cereal

Pour the peanut butter-chocolate mixture over the crispy rice cereal in the mixing bowl. Gently fold everything together until the cereal is evenly coated with the mixture. Be careful not to crush the cereal.

5. Form Clusters

Using a spoon or your hands lightly coated with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking scoop out portions of the mixture and drop them onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. You can make the clusters as big or as small as you like.

6. Allow to Set

Let the clusters cool and set at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours, or you can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once the clusters are firm and set, peel them off the parchment paper and arrange them on a serving plate. They are now ready to be enjoyed!

8. Optional Decorations

For an extra touch, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the clusters and sprinkle crushed peanuts or sea salt for added flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts (per cluster)

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Sodium: 85mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 3g

Please note that these nutrition facts are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use and the size of the clusters you make. Be sure to adjust the serving size and nutrition information accordingly if you make larger or smaller clusters. Enjoy your Crispy Chocolate & Peanut Butter Cereal Clusters!