Description
Ragtag Candies are a delightful no-bake treat combining melted white almond bark, buttery notes, crunchy pecans, mini marshmallows, pretzel pieces, and colorful candy-coated chocolates. These easy-to-make clusters provide a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy textures, ideal for festive gatherings or anytime snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 16 oz white almond bark, chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp fine sea salt
Mix-ins
- 1 cup salted pecan halves, coarsely chopped
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 3/4 cup mini pretzel pieces
- 3/4 cup candy-coated chocolate candies
Instructions
- Prep the Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set them aside to prepare for candy placement.
- Melt the Almond Bark and Butter: Place the chopped white almond bark and unsalted butter in a large microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave Mixture: Microwave on 50% power in 30-second bursts, stirring after each interval until the coating is mostly melted, then stir thoroughly until completely smooth.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and fine sea salt until fully combined, ensuring an even flavor distribution.
- Combine Mix-ins: Add the chopped pecans, mini marshmallows, and mini pretzel pieces to the bowl and gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated with the melted almond bark mixture.
- Add Candy Coating: Sprinkle in the candy-coated chocolate candies and fold gently again, taking care not to crush them for a colorful finish.
- Form Candy Clusters: Using a small cookie scoop or a heaping tablespoon, drop mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, about 2 tablespoons each.
- Shape and Arrange: Continue scooping until you have about 24 candies, tucking any loose mix-ins back into the tops of the clusters for neat presentation.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the baking sheets for about 20 minutes, or until the candies are firm and can be lifted cleanly from the parchment paper.
- Store and Serve: Transfer the Ragtag Candies to an airtight container, layering with parchment if needed to prevent sticking, and serve slightly cool or at room temperature for optimal texture.
Notes
- Ensure to chop the white almond bark into small pieces for even melting.
- Be gentle when folding in the candy-coated chocolates to avoid crushing them.
- These candies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature or chilled for up to one week.
- To speed up setting, place the baking sheets in the freezer for about 10 minutes.
- Use salted pecans to maintain the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
