There’s nothing quite as nostalgic and cheerful as a batch of Crockpot Christmas Candy gracing the holiday dessert table. This recipe transforms a handful of simple, festive ingredients into irresistibly creamy, nutty clusters—perfect for gift-giving, cookie trays, or just snacking straight from the tin. With a combination of melting chocolates, crunchy peanuts, and a crowning touch of colorful M&M’s and sprinkles, it’s a sure way to bring joy to every holiday gathering!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a few key pantry staples magically unite in this recipe, and each ingredient truly makes a difference in flavor, texture, or festive flair. The combination of creamy almond bark and chocolate chips guarantees smooth richness, while the peanuts add crunch—and don’t forget the holiday toppings for a playful pop of color!
- White almond bark, chopped: Acts as the creamy base, creating that luscious texture that makes the candy so addictive.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Infuse a deep, balanced chocolate flavor that keeps the candy from getting overly sweet.
- Milk chocolate chips: Adds extra creaminess and a classic chocolatey taste loved by all ages.
- Dry roasted peanuts: Bring crunch and depth with their lightly roasted flavor—plus, they help to balance the sweetness.
- Salted peanuts: The salty bite heightens all the flavors and keeps you reaching for “just one more.”
- Red and green holiday M&M’s: These festive morsels instantly make each candy pop with holiday spirit and color.
- Holiday sprinkles (optional): For an extra whimsical finish, adding sparkle and a fun contrast in every bite.
How to Make Crockpot Christmas Candy
Step 1: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot
Start by adding your chopped white almond bark to the bottom of a large slow cooker, followed by both types of chocolate chips, and then pile on the dry roasted and salted peanuts. Layering in this order helps the almond bark melt smoothly and coat everything evenly, while keeping the nuts from scorching.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot with its lid, set it to low, and let everything slowly melt together for 2 hours. Resist the urge to stir—the magic happens when those ingredients gently meld undisturbed, creating that classic Crockpot Christmas Candy texture.
Step 3: Stir It All Together
Once your timer dings, lift off the lid and give the mixture a good stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the peanuts are evenly coated. The mixture should look smooth and glossy, with all the nuts enveloped in an irresistible chocolatey coat.
Step 4: Drop and Decorate
Line several baking sheets with parchment or wax paper. Using a spoon, drop generous mounds of the candy mixture onto the lined sheets, leaving space so they don’t stick together. Without delay (before the chocolate sets), sprinkle the tops with holiday M&M’s and a pinch of festive sprinkles—this step is where Crockpot Christmas Candy truly comes alive with color and charm.
Step 5: Set and Enjoy
Allow your candy clusters to cool at room temperature for about an hour, or pop the trays into the refrigerator to set them faster. Once hardened, they’re ready to enjoy, share, and spread sweet holiday cheer!
How to Serve Crockpot Christmas Candy
Garnishes
While the red and green M&M’s and sprinkles are classic, don’t hesitate to personalize your Crockpot Christmas Candy with festive nonpareils, chopped candy canes, or even a drizzle of white chocolate for extra pizzazz. A light dusting of edible glitter also makes each candy sparkle on your dessert plates.
Side Dishes
These sweet, nutty clusters pair beautifully with mugs of homemade hot chocolate, spiced cider, or strong coffee, especially during a cozy afternoon gathering. Serve them beside a platter of assorted cookies, or add them to a bowl of mixed holiday treats for a little extra surprise in every handful.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting, pile your Crockpot Christmas Candy into mini muffin liners or festive tins, then tie with ribbons for a homemade touch. Arrange them on a decorative tray for a holiday party centerpiece, or let little helpers create candy “bouquets” by skewering clusters onto lollipop sticks and wrapping in clear cellophane. They’re adorable and always get a smile!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Crockpot Christmas Candy in an airtight container at room temperature—no need for the fridge unless your kitchen is particularly warm. They’ll stay fresh (and delightfully tempting) for up to two weeks, making them perfect for holiday nibbling or sharing throughout the season.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze your candy for longer storage! Just layer the clusters between sheets of wax paper in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying for that just-made texture.
Reheating
These candies are designed to be enjoyed as-is, but if you prefer them slightly softer, let them sit out at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving—no microwaving required. The chocolate will relax a little without losing its shape or flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of nuts?
Absolutely! While peanuts are traditional for Crockpot Christmas Candy, swap in pecans, cashews, or almonds for unique flavor twists. Just keep unsalted nuts on hand if you want to control the saltiness.
What if I don’t have almond bark?
If almond bark isn’t available, substitute with candy coating or even additional chocolate chips with a little coconut oil to help the mixture set up and stay glossy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your labels, especially on candy decorations, to keep everything safe and enjoyable for all guests.
Can I double the recipe in one batch?
If your crockpot is large enough (think 7 quarts or more), you can absolutely double the batch. Just keep the same cooking time and be sure to give everything a thorough stir before dropping the candies onto the sheets.
How can I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Layer the chocolate ingredients as directed and avoid lifting the lid or stirring midway through cooking. By letting the almond bark melt first and not introducing any moisture, your chocolate will stay creamy and glossy every time.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll give this Crockpot Christmas Candy a spot in your holiday traditions—it’s one of those treats that’s as fun to make as it is to eat (and share). Whether you’re crafting edible gifts or looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe brings holiday magic to every kitchen. Enjoy the sweet moments, and happy candy making!
Print
Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 60 candies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the holiday spirit with this easy and delicious Crockpot Christmas Candy recipe. Perfect for festive gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift, these sweet treats are sure to impress!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds white almond bark, chopped
- 1 (12-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (12-ounce) package milk chocolate chips
- 1 (16-ounce) jar dry roasted peanuts
- 1 (16-ounce) jar salted peanuts
- 1 (10-ounce) bag red and green holiday M&M’s
- 1 (2.25-ounce) jar holiday sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Layer Ingredients: Add white almond bark, semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, dry roasted peanuts, and salted peanuts in a slow cooker.
- Cook Slowly: Cover and cook on low for 2 hours without stirring.
- Mix and Set: Stir the mixture until smooth, then drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper. Top with M&M’s and sprinkles.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the candy cool for about 1 hour at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker setting.
Notes
- Use mini muffin liners for a festive touch.
- Experiment with different chip varieties for a unique flavor.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
