🍫 Ragtags – Sweet, Salty, Crunchy Clusters You’ll Love!

Before we get into this addictively easy treat, I just want to say thank you—thank you for being here, for loving the kind of simple, shareable snacks that make life just a little sweeter (and saltier 😉). Today’s recipe? It’s a no-bake, no-fuss, five-ingredient wonder that disappears faster than you can say “Where’d they go?!”

Ragtags are sweet, salty, and ultra-crunchy clusters made with cereal, pretzels, peanuts, and creamy white chocolate. They’re the ultimate everything-in-the-bowl kind of treat that comes together in 10 minutes and sets up beautifully for gifting, snacking, or stashing away just for yourself.

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What Are Ragtags?

Ragtags are no-bake candy clusters made by coating a mix of Rice Krispies, crushed pretzels, and peanuts in melted white chocolate, then spreading it out on a tray to cool and break into pieces. Think of it like bark… but chunkier, crunchier, and completely irresistible.

They’re called “Ragtags” for a reason—no perfection required! You mix, you spread, you break, and you snack. That’s it. 🙌

Why You’ll Love Ragtags

✅ Just 5 ingredients
✅ 10-minute prep – no oven, no candy thermometer
✅ Sweet + salty + crunchy – every texture craving in one bite
✅ Perfect for holidays, parties, or edible gifts
✅ Kid-friendly, crowd-approved

What Do Ragtags Taste Like?

Each bite is a wild mix of creamy white chocolate, crunchy cereal, salty peanuts, and crispy pretzels. The sweet-salty balance is perfection, and the combination of textures keeps you coming back for more.

They’re light but satisfying, snackable yet indulgent—and so easy to customize!

Ingredients You’ll Need

🧂 Crunchy Cluster Base:

4 cups Rice Krispie cereal
3 cups pretzel sticks, lightly crushed
1½ cups roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted—your choice)

🍫 Sweet Coating:

1 (12 oz) bag white chocolate chips

Tools You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Microwave-safe bowl
Rubber spatula
Baking sheet
Parchment or wax paper
Airtight container for storage

Ingredient Swaps & Fun Add-Ins

No white chocolate? Use almond bark, candy melts, or milk/dark chocolate chips.
Nut-free? Sub sunflower seeds or omit the peanuts entirely.
Add a twist: Try mini marshmallows, M&Ms, or toffee bits.
Holiday vibe? Toss in red/green sprinkles or crushed peppermint!

How to Make Ragtags (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Line the Tray

Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

4 cups Rice Krispies
3 cups crushed pretzels
1½ cups roasted peanuts
Toss everything together so it’s evenly mixed.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 12 oz white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each round. It should be smooth and creamy.

💡 Tip: Add 1 tsp coconut oil if your chocolate needs a little help smoothing out!

Step 4: Combine & Coat

Pour the melted chocolate over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated. Work quickly so it doesn’t set too fast!

Step 5: Spread & Set

Transfer the coated mixture to your prepared baking sheet.
Spread it out into an even layer—don’t worry about being perfect.

Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, or pop it in the fridge to chill faster.

Step 6: Break Into Pieces

Once set, break the slab into rustic pieces or “rags.”
Store in an airtight container (if you don’t eat it all immediately!).

What to Serve with Ragtags

These are the perfect sweet-salty companion to:

Hot cocoa or coffee
Holiday cookie trays
Movie night spreads
Charcuterie boards (yes, dessert boards too!)
Edible gift bags or mason jars with ribbon

Tips for Perfect Clusters

Use fresh pretzels and cereal for the best crunch.
Don’t over-melt the chocolate—stir often for a smooth result.
Line your tray to avoid sticking (parchment is a must!).
Customize the size—leave in big chunks or break into small snack bites.

How to Store Ragtags

Room Temp: Keep in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
Fridge: Lasts 2–3 weeks, great for warmer climates.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp before serving.

FAQs About Ragtags

Can I use other cereals besides Rice Krispies?

Absolutely! Cornflakes, Chex, or Cheerios all work well—just keep the ratio similar.

Are Ragtags gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free pretzels and cereal. Double-check labels to be sure.

Can I use colored candy melts for holidays?

Yes! These are super fun with red and green melts for Christmas, or pink and white for Valentine’s Day.

How do I package these for gifts?

Once cooled and broken, place them in a festive tin, cellophane bag, or small box with parchment paper. Add a ribbon, and you’re done!

Final Thoughts

Ragtags are the snack you make when you want something fast, fun, and downright crave-worthy. With zero baking, a perfect balance of sweet and salty, and just the right amount of crunch, this easy treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Make them once, and you’ll be adding them to every party, gift tin, and rainy day movie night from here on out.

More Easy Sweet Snacks You’ll Love

Share Your Ragtags! 📸

Made this recipe? I’d love to see your sweet & salty masterpiece!
Leave a review, pin it to Pinterest, or tag your snack stack with #MmmRecipes on Instagram.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approx. Based on 12 Servings)

Calories: 280
Fat: 12g
Carbs: 35g
Sugar: 18g
Protein: 5g

Vegetarian | Contains Peanuts & Gluten (can be adapted)

Thanks for making snack time extra sweet today. Here’s to easy wins, crunchy bites, and never-ending ragtags. 💛