Let’s dive into the process of making these clusters. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is!

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This base mixture should be thick but manageable, almost like cookie dough.

Step 2: Add the Pretzels

Break the pretzel sticks into smaller bite-sized pieces. Add them to the peanut butter mixture and stir until every piece is coated. The pretzels add crunch and structure, preventing the clusters from being too soft.

Step 3: Form the Clusters

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto the sheet, forming clusters. Aim for consistency so each cluster is about the same size (this helps with even chilling).

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and silky. Coconut oil isn’t essential but it makes the chocolate shinier and easier to drizzle.

Step 5: Drizzle or Dip

You can either drizzle the melted chocolate over the clusters for a decorative look or dip the bottoms of each cluster into the chocolate for an extra-rich base. Both methods work beautifully, so choose whichever suits your style (or do half and half!).

Step 6: Add a Finishing Touch

While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the clusters. The salt balances the sweetness and adds a professional, bakery-style flair.

Step 7: Chill to Set

Place the tray in the refrigerator for 30–45 minutes, or until the clusters are firm and set. Once chilled, they’re ready to eat.