Get ready to indulge guilt-free with these High Protein Homemade Nerd Clusters—a playful twist on the beloved candy treat that combines nostalgia with nutrition! Packed with the muscle-building power of protein powder, crispy rice cereal, and a touch of honey for natural sweetness, these chewy clusters are balanced with a delightful crunch from colorful Nerds candy. Quick and easy to make in just 20 minutes, this recipe uses mini marshmallows and unsalted butter to create a gooey base, while vanilla extract adds a hint of warmth to each bite. Perfect for snacking or satisfying your sweet tooth, these clusters are a fun, high-protein treat that appeals to both candy lovers and fitness enthusiasts. Make a batch to brighten up your snack stash, or share them at your next gathering—they’ll be gone in no time! Ready to feel good about candy again? Dive into this recipe now!
Prepare a baking sheet or large tray by lining it with parchment paper.
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the mini marshmallows, honey, and unsalted butter.
Microwave the mixture on high for 1 minute, then stir. Continue to heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Add the protein powder to the melted mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
Pour the crispy rice cereal into the bowl and gently fold it into the wet mixture until evenly coated.
Carefully fold in the Nerds candy until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop golf ball-sized clusters onto the prepared parchment paper.
Allow the clusters to cool and set for about 30 minutes at room temperature or speed up the process by refrigerating them for 15 minutes.
Once set, enjoy the high-protein Nerd clusters, and store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Calories |
3403 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 32.0 g | 41% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.0 g | 80% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 122 mg | 41% | |
| Sodium | 3390 mg | 147% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 655.0 g | 238% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 418.4 g | ||
| Protein | 112.8 g | 226% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 812 mg | 62% | |
| Iron | 29.4 mg | 163% | |
| Potassium | 1118 mg | 24% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.