If you’re looking for a quick, no-bake dessert that’s both fun and delicious, this 6-ingredient Ragtag Candies recipe is perfect. These little clusters combine sweet and salty flavors with an irresistible crunch. Made with chocolate, butterscotch, marshmallows, peanuts, pretzels, and candy-coated chocolates, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, bake sales, or just a quick snack, Ragtag Candies are always a hit  and the best part is, they take less than 15 minutes of hands-on time!

What Are Ragtag Candies?

Ragtag Candies are a classic no-bake dessert that many families have been making for decades, though they go by different names. They’re essentially a candy cluster, combining chocolate and butterscotch with mix-ins like marshmallows, peanuts, pretzels, and M&M’s. The result is a sweet-and-salty treat with layers of crunchy and chewy textures. Originally popularized in American kitchens as a holiday or bake-sale favorite, this recipe is still loved today because it’s budget-friendly, customizable, and so easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ragtag Candies recipe is the perfect balance of flavors — chocolatey, nutty, salty, and sweet. It’s also incredibly versatile. Don’t have pretzels? Swap them for cornflakes. Not a fan of butterscotch? Try peanut butter or white chocolate chips instead. Kids can help stir the ingredients and scoop the candies, making it a fun activity for the whole family. Plus, since there’s no baking involved, you don’t have to wait long before enjoying these tasty clusters. They store well in the fridge, making them ideal for meal prep snacks or holiday gifting.

Ingredients for Ragtag Candies

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup butterscotch chips
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup salted peanuts
• 1 cup pretzel sticks, broken into pieces
• ½ cup M&M’s or candy-coated chocolates

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Melt the chocolate and butterscotch

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth and fully melted.

Step 2: Combine the dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the mini marshmallows, salted peanuts, pretzel sticks, and M&M’s.

Step 3: Mix everything together

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Form the candies

Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Shape into small mounds.

Step 5: Chill and serve

Refrigerate the candies for at least 30 minutes, or until firm. Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition Information (per serving, approx. 1 candy)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 8g
• Sugar: 12g

Ragtag Candies

Can I make Ragtag Candies ahead of time?

Yes! They store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Perfect for meal prep or holiday gatherings.

Can I freeze Ragtag Candies?

Absolutely. Freeze them on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag. They last up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I swap ingredients?

Definitely. Try cornflakes, Rice Krispies, almonds, or dried cranberries for a different flavor and texture. You can also swap butterscotch chips with peanut butter or white chocolate.