Fruit & Nut Chocolate Cheerios Clusters

Fruit & Nut Chocolate Cheerios Clusters
by Sarah Kwan of Earthly Delights Blog
Makes approximately 24 clusters

2 Tablespoons unsalted butter + more for greasing
2 cups mini marshmallows
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups Chocolate Cheerios
1/2 cup dried cherries or cranberries (or a mixture)
1/2 cup almonds
7 ounces dark chocolate for dipping (optional, but recommended!)

Lightly grease a half baking sheet and line with waxed paper. Lightly grease the wax paper and set aside.

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add marshmallows and salt, and stir occasionally until marshmallows have melted (approximately 5 minutes).

Remove from heat and stir in the Chocolate Cheerios, dried fruit and nuts.

Working quickly, take small handfuls with lightly greased hands and form into clusters. Place on prepared baking sheet.

If using, melt chocolate over a double boiler until smooth, then dip cluster bottoms in the chocolate. Let set for 30 minutes in fridge (or until the chocolate is solid).

Store in an airtight container.