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Ragtag Candies
If you love homemade sweets that are both delicious and delightfully imperfect, Ragtag Candies will quickly become one of your favorites. These colorful, chewy, and crunchy treats are a nostalgic nod to old-fashioned candy-making with a modern twist. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just to satisfy a sugar craving, Ragtag Candies are as fun to make as they are to eat. Every batch turns out slightly different — and that’s the charm!
What Are Ragtag Candies?
Ragtag Candies are a mix of crunchy clusters made from various ingredients like cereal, pretzels, nuts, chocolate, and sometimes even marshmallows. The name “Ragtag” comes from their imperfect and random appearance — no two pieces look the same! Despite their messy look, they’re absolutely irresistible, combining salty and sweet flavors with a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
White chocolate or candy coating: Acts as the binder that holds everything together.
Mini pretzels: Adds a salty crunch that balances the sweetness.
Cheerios or Rice Krispies: For that light, crispy texture.
Peanuts or almonds: Give the candies a nutty depth of flavor.
Mini marshmallows: For a soft and chewy surprise in each bite.
Colored sprinkles or M&Ms: Adds festive color and a fun touch to every piece.
How to Make Ragtag Candies
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
Start by melting your white chocolate or candy coating in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overheat, as white chocolate can seize easily.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine pretzel pieces, cereal, nuts, and marshmallows. Pour the melted chocolate over the mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly. The combination of textures will create that signature “ragtag” look.
Step 3: Add the Fun
Gently fold in colorful candies or sprinkles. This is where you can get creative — red and green sprinkles for Christmas, pastel M&Ms for Easter, or rainbow sprinkles for birthdays.
Step 4: Shape the Candies
Using a spoon, drop small clusters of the mixture onto parchment-lined baking sheets. You don’t have to make them perfect; their charm lies in their irregular shapes.
Step 5: Let Them Set
Allow the candies to cool and harden at room temperature or place them in the refrigerator for about 20–30 minutes. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.
Tips for Perfect Ragtag Candies
If you’re using white chocolate, make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry — even a drop of water can ruin the texture.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Don’t overload the mixture with too many add-ins; keep a good balance of chocolate to dry ingredients. You can use different types of chocolate — milk, dark, or even peanut butter chips for variety.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain crunchiness.
Flavor Variations
Peanut Butter Ragtag Candies: Add 2 tablespoons of peanut butter to your melted chocolate for a creamy, nutty version.
Holiday Ragtag Mix: Add crushed candy canes and red-green candies for a festive touch.
Trail Mix Style: Include raisins, coconut flakes, and sunflower seeds for a chewy, snack-style variation.
Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Use dark and milk chocolate chips for a richer, more decadent treat.
How to Serve Ragtag Candies
These candies are perfect for every occasion. Serve them as a sweet snack, a party treat, or a quick dessert after dinner. They also make great additions to lunchboxes or road trip snacks. During the holidays, pack them in decorative bags or jars for an easy and thoughtful homemade gift.
Storage Instructions
Store your Ragtag Candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Avoid storing them in humid conditions to keep their crunchy texture. You can also freeze them for up to two months — just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 180
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Sugar: 18g
Protein: 3g
Final Thoughts
Ragtag Candies are proof that beautiful things can come from chaos! They’re simple, colorful, and endlessly customizable — a treat that brings joy with every bite. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for the holidays, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in, these candies are guaranteed to spread smiles. Try them once, and they’ll become a new favorite in your homemade candy collection!