With just 16 minutes from start to finish, Chubby Hubby Clusters deliver a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more. These irresistible bites combine the rich creaminess of chocolate, the crunch of pretzels, and the satisfying chew of peanut butter for a treat that’s both indulgent and balanced. Perfect for a quick snack or a sweet after-dinner delight, they’re as easy to make as they are delicious.
Each bite offers a delightful contrast of sweet, salty, and nutty notes, making these clusters a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Packed with protein and fiber, they’re a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on taste. Whip up a batch and experience the magic of this American classic in no time!
What You’ll Need for Chubby Hubby Clusters
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup peanut butter chips (or white chocolate chips as a substitute)
- ½ cup butter, cut into pieces (unsalted preferred, but salted works too)
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter (crunchy can be used for added texture)
- 2 cups pretzel sticks, roughly chopped (or pretzel twists for a different shape)
- 1 cup salted peanuts (unsalted peanuts can be used if you prefer less salt)
How to Make Chubby Hubby Clusters
- Combine and melt: In a large microwave-safe bowl, mix together the chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, butter, and peanut butter. Microwave on high for 45 seconds, then stir. Microwave again for 30 seconds and stir until smooth. If not fully melted, continue microwaving in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
- Mix in the crunch: Add the chopped pretzels and peanuts to the melted chocolate mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Form the clusters: Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto a wax paper-lined baking sheet. Use a spoon or cookie scoop for even sizes.
- Chill and set: Refrigerate the clusters for about 30 minutes, or until firm. For a quicker set, you can place them in the freezer for 15 minutes.
- Optional drizzle: If desired, melt additional peanut butter and drizzle it over the clusters for extra flavor and decoration.
- Store and enjoy: Once set, transfer the clusters to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature or in the fridge for up to a week (if they last that long!).
Creative Toppings and Drizzles
Take your Chubby Hubby Clusters to the next level by adding fun toppings or drizzles! Try melting white chocolate and drizzling it over the clusters for a sweet contrast. For a salty-sweet twist, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before the chocolate sets. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce or sprinkle crushed pretzels for extra crunch and flavor.
Perfect Pairings for Serving
These clusters are a crowd-pleaser on their own, but they pair wonderfully with other treats. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert, or pack them in a lunchbox with fresh fruit for a balanced snack. They also make a great addition to a dessert charcuterie board, paired with cookies, brownies, and fresh berries.
Storage Tips for Long-Lasting Freshness
Store your Chubby Hubby Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months. If freezing, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Quick Variations to Mix It Up
Customize this recipe to suit your taste! Swap the peanuts for almonds or cashews for a different nutty flavor. Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste, or add a handful of mini marshmallows for a gooey surprise. For a festive touch, mix in colorful sprinkles or crushed candy canes during the holidays.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Bakers
Short on time? Use pre-melted chocolate or a chocolate melting pot to skip the microwave step. Pre-chopped pretzels and nuts can also save a few minutes. If you’re making a double batch, use a cookie scoop to portion the clusters quickly and evenly. These small tweaks can make the process even smoother!
Chubby Hubby Clusters
Ingredients
- 1½ cups semi sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanut butter chips
- ½ cup butter, cut into pieces
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- 2 cups pretzel sticks, roughly chopped
- 1 cup salted peanuts
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, butter, and peanut butter. Microwave on high for 45 seconds, stir, and microwave again for 30 seconds. Stir until smooth (if it isn’t completely melted, return to the microwave for 20 second intervals, stirring after each time).
- Add pretzels and peanuts to the melted chocolate mixture and stir until they are completely coated in chocolate.
- Drop by tablespoonfuls onto wax paper and refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until firm.
- Optional: drizzle with melted peanut butter.
- If you don’t eat them all in one sitting, store leftovers in an airtight container.