Crunchy Chocolate Peanut Clusters
Indulge guilt-free with these crunchy chocolate peanut clusters. By swapping out the usual butter and fried noodles for a healthier fiber-rich cereal and reduced-fat peanut butter, this recipe offers a satisfying sweet treat that is both lower in calories and higher in fiber. Perfect for a quick dessert option or a light snack, these clusters combine the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures that will delight your taste buds.
N/A
Servings
71
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fiber One cereal
1 cup (unprepared)
milk chocolate candy bar
1 (1 1/2 ounce) (broken into pieces)
reduced-fat peanut butter
1 tablespoon (no additional prep)
Instructions
1
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate candy bar and reduced-fat peanut butter. Heat in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between each interval until the mixture is melted and smooth. Be careful to avoid burning or overheating the chocolate.
2
2. Add the Fiber One cereal to the chocolate-peanut butter mixture. Gently fold the cereal into the mixture until fully coated, ensuring each piece is covered evenly.
3
3. Prepare a parchment or wax paper-lined baking sheet. Using a spoon, drop mounds of the mixture onto the paper, form approximately six clusters of similar size.
4
4. Place the baking sheet into the refrigerator and chill until the chocolate has completely hardened, about 30 minutes.
5
5. Once set, remove the clusters from the refrigerator. Serve and enjoy your crunchy chocolate peanut clusters!
Nutrition Information
4g
Fat
2g
Protein
5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crunchy Chocolate Peanut Clusters?
They are a healthier, low-calorie dessert or snack made by combining fiber-rich cereal with melted milk chocolate and reduced-fat peanut butter.
How many calories are in each cluster?
Each cluster contains approximately 71 calories.
How much fiber is in one serving?
One serving provides about 5 grams of dietary fiber, thanks to the use of Fiber One cereal.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You only need three ingredients: 1 cup of Fiber One cereal, a 1.5-ounce milk chocolate candy bar, and 1 tablespoon of reduced-fat peanut butter.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, these clusters are a no-bake treat that only requires a microwave for melting and a refrigerator for setting.
How do I melt the chocolate and peanut butter?
Combine them in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate with dark chocolate if you prefer a less sweet or more antioxidant-rich option.
How many clusters does this recipe make?
This specific recipe makes approximately six clusters of similar size.
How long do the clusters need to chill?
The clusters should be refrigerated for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has completely hardened.
What type of cereal should I use?
The recipe calls for Fiber One cereal to maximize fiber content and provide a crunchy texture.
Is there any protein in these clusters?
Yes, each cluster contains about 2 grams of protein.
How much fat is in each serving?
Each cluster contains approximately 4 grams of fat.
Can I use regular peanut butter instead of reduced-fat?
Yes, you can use regular peanut butter, though it may slightly increase the calorie and fat content.
How should I store these clusters?
Store the clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them from melting and to maintain their crunch.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely. Adding crushed peanuts or almonds can enhance the flavor, though it will change the nutritional values.
What should I use to line the baking sheet?
Use parchment paper or wax paper to prevent the chocolate clusters from sticking to the tray.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Fiber One cereal typically contains wheat, so you would need to use a certified gluten-free high-fiber cereal to make this recipe gluten-free.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch.
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes only about 5 to 10 minutes, plus 30 minutes for chilling.
Is this recipe vegan?
As written, it is not vegan because of the milk chocolate. However, you can use vegan chocolate and ensure your cereal choice is vegan-friendly.
How do I prevent the chocolate from burning?
Stir the chocolate and peanut butter every 30 seconds during microwaving to ensure even heating and prevent overheating.
Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes, almond butter or cashew butter are great alternatives to peanut butter.
Are these clusters suitable for kids?
Yes, they are a kid-friendly snack that provides a sweet taste with the added benefit of fiber.
What makes this a 'guilt-free' dessert?
It uses high-fiber cereal and reduced-fat ingredients to keep calories low while satisfying sweet cravings.
Can I freeze these clusters?
Yes, they can be frozen for a firmer, colder treat and will keep for up to a month in the freezer.
Is this recipe low-sodium?
The sodium content is generally low, but it depends on the specific brands of cereal and peanut butter used.
Can I add dried fruit?
Yes, adding raisins or dried cranberries can provide extra sweetness and texture.
What is the texture of these clusters?
They have a creamy chocolate-peanut butter coating with a very crunchy interior from the cereal.
Do I need any special tools?
No special tools are needed—just a microwave, a bowl, a spoon, and a baking sheet.
Can I substitute the cereal with granola?
You can use granola, but the calorie and sugar content will likely be higher than when using Fiber One cereal.