Quickest, Easiest Christmas Candy: Nut Clusters

This is one of my favorite no-hassle holiday treats to make because it is FAST!  These mixed nuts coated with delicious chocolate and butterscotch make a great thrifty gift for co-workes, clients, teachers, bus drivers, mailman, or pretty much anyone.  With only three easy steps, this candy goes from cupboard to candy box!

If you like this, check out more fast and easy Christmas cookie and candy ideas!

Step 1: The Recipe

Quick & Easy Nut Clusters
makes 2 to 3 dozen

12 oz. semi sweet Chocolate chips
6 oz. butterscotch chips
1 lb nuts
optional: 1/4 bar of gulf wax**

**Gulf wax is a candy grade paraffin wax found in the baking isle near the gelatin and jam making supplies.  It helps the chocolate harden so it won't melt when handled.  It also makes it easier to mix the chocolate with the nuts.  A box comes with 4 bars of wax.

I usually double this recipe to make a huge batch!

Step 2: Step 1: Melt Chocolate and Butterscotch

Using a double boiler, melt chocolate and butterscotch chips together.  Stir occasionally to help the mixture melt faster.

If you choose to use the Gulf wax, which I always do, add it here as well.  Cut the 1/4 bar of wax into as small of chunks as possible.  This helps it melt faster.

Step 3: Step Two: Mix the Melted Chocolate With the Nuts

Place all your mixed nuts into a large bowl. You can use peanuts, cashews, walnuts, pecans, almonds or whatever nuts you want.  I usually just purchase a container or two of mixed nuts.

Pour melted chocolate over the nuts and stir until all the nuts are completely covered.

Step 4: Step 3: Spoon Out Clusters.

Spoon clusters to your desired size onto baking sheets lined with wax paper.  I usually use a tablespoon or a large soup spoon to measure the size of my clusters.  Place baking sheets with clusters into refrigerator for 30 minutes to chill and harden.

As promised, that's it and you're done! Store chilled, in an airtight container, in the fridge for up to two to three weeks.  The butterscotch chips help give extra flavor to the candy.  Considering the output, this choco-nut-cluster gives you great bang for your time and buck!