Looking for the perfect no-fuss holiday treat that’s rich, chocolatey, and totally irresistible? This Crockpot Candy recipe is a game-changer. With just three ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a sweet solution for busy bakers and last-minute gift-givers. Whether you’re making a festive batch for Christmas parties or whipping up edible gifts for neighbors, this candy delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable to suit your preferences. Let’s dive into why this chocolate-peanut treat is a must-try this season.
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Why You’ll Love This 3-Ingredient Crockpot Candy
One of the biggest perks of this Crockpot Candy is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy tools or baking skills — just your trusty slow cooker and three pantry staples. It’s perfect for anyone who loves indulgent sweets but doesn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
- 5-minute prep: Dump everything into your slow cooker and let the heat do the work.
- Foolproof: No stovetop stirring or tempering required.
- Versatile: Add your own flair with festive toppings, different nuts, or even candy mix-ins.
- Ideal for gifting: Makes beautiful, bite-sized treats for friends and family.
This chocolate crockpot candy with peanuts is also gluten-free (as long as your ingredients are certified GF), and it holds up well at room temperature or chilled.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this addictive treat — each ingredient plays a crucial role in flavor, texture, and that perfect candy finish.
- Dry Roasted Salted Peanuts: Add crunch, protein, and a savory balance to the sweet chocolate
- White Almond Bark: Helps the candy set perfectly and gives it a creamy, smooth mouthfeel
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Bring rich cocoa flavor and help deepen the sweetness
- Sprinkles (Optional): Great for decoration and seasonal flair — they also add a bit of crunch and color
Ingredient Tip: Avoid using white chocolate chips in place of almond bark — they don’t set as firmly and can make your candies too soft.
Substitutions and Custom Add-Ins
Want to make this Crockpot Candy your own? Try these tasty alternatives if you’re short on ingredients or catering to dietary needs:
- Swap peanuts with pecans, cashews, or almonds for a different nutty profile
- Replace almond bark with white melting wafers or candy coating for similar results
- Use white chocolate chips for a sweeter, milkier version
- Add mini marshmallows, pretzel pieces, or toffee bits for extra fun textures
- Use colored sanding sugar or crushed peppermint for a seasonal spin
This recipe is also easy to make vegan by using dairy-free chocolate chips and skipping sprinkles that contain confectioner’s glaze.
How to Make Crockpot Candy: Step-by-Step
- Prepare your trays: Line four large cookie sheets with parchment or wax paper and set aside.
- Layer the peanuts: Spread dry roasted peanuts evenly on the bottom of a 5-quart or larger crockpot.
- Add the chocolate: Place broken almond bark pieces and semi-sweet chocolate chips on top. Do not stir.
- Slow cook phase one: Cover and cook on LOW heat for 1 hour without lifting the lid.
- Mix and continue cooking: After the first hour, stir everything together well. Cook for another hour, stirring every 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Scoop the candy: Use a tablespoon to drop mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Decorate and set: Immediately add sprinkles if using. Chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes or until firm.
Pro Tip: Be cautious when removing the lid — condensation can drip into the mix and cause the chocolate to seize.
Pro Tips for Perfect Crockpot Candy
- Avoid moisture: Water is chocolate’s enemy. Don’t let condensation drip into your mixture.
- Use cupcake liners: For easy handling and a gift-worthy presentation, scoop the candy into mini liners.
- Set before moving: Let candies harden completely before storing or packaging.
- Chill to speed things up: Refrigeration helps set the chocolate faster, especially in warm kitchens.
- Sprinkles timing: Add toppings while the chocolate is still wet — they won’t stick otherwise.
What to Serve With Crockpot Candy & Flavor Variations
Want to elevate your Crockpot Candy experience? Try these combinations and serving ideas:
- Pair with: Hot cocoa, coffee, or mulled wine at your holiday gatherings
- Drizzle with: White chocolate or caramel for extra decadence
- Create themed batches: Red and green sprinkles for Christmas, pastels for Easter, or orange and black for Halloween
- Make-ahead magic: These candies can be made up to two weeks in advance and stored for convenience
- Gift them: Package in cellophane bags or decorative tins with ribbon for homemade food gifts
You can also make a spicy version by adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder — perfect for adventurous palates.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Storing Crockpot Candy:
Place in an airtight container with parchment between layers. Keep at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
Freezing Crockpot Candy:
Once fully set, place candies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Crockpot Candy: Your Go-To Treat for Any Season
There’s a reason this Crockpot Candy recipe has become a beloved staple during the holidays. It checks every box — easy, delicious, customizable, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re entertaining, gifting, or indulging solo, this is one recipe that always delivers.
And if you’re looking to build a full dessert spread, pair this candy with classics like rum balls, candied pecans, or Chex mix for a crowd-pleasing array of holiday sweets. Just don’t be surprised when this chocolatey treat disappears first!
Conclusion
Crockpot Candy is a classic example of how the simplest recipes can deliver the biggest rewards. With just three pantry staples and virtually no hands-on cooking, this treat is perfect for anyone looking to simplify holiday baking without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re gifting them to loved ones, serving at a party, or sneaking one from the fridge at midnight, this rich and crunchy candy never disappoints. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to sweet year-round — because when something this easy tastes this good, there’s no reason to save it just for the holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Candy
How do I keep my crockpot candy from becoming too soft or sticky?
The most common reason for soft or sticky Crockpot Candy is using ingredients like white chocolate chips instead of almond bark, which doesn’t harden as well. Always use almond bark or melting wafers for a firm set. Also, make sure to store the candy in a cool, dry place — the fridge is ideal in warm climates.
Can I double the recipe in the same crockpot?
Yes, you can double the Crockpot Candy recipe if your crockpot is large enough (at least 6-7 quarts). Just be sure to increase the cooking time slightly and stir more frequently during the second hour to ensure even melting and mixing.
Is it possible to make this recipe without a crockpot?
Absolutely! You can melt the almond bark and chocolate chips together on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid scorching. Once melted, stir in the peanuts and continue with the recipe as usual. The crockpot is more hands-off, but stovetop works just as well for smaller batches or if you’re short on time.
More Relevant Recipes
- Peanut Butter Spider Cookies: These fun and festive cookies blend creamy peanut butter and chocolate, making them a delightful Halloween-inspired twist that pairs beautifully in flavor and ease with Crockpot Candy.
- Ghost Cookies No-Bake Recipe: A quick and spooky no-bake dessert, perfect for anyone who loved the simplicity of Crockpot Candy. These cookies use white chocolate and cookies to create a sweet and ghostly treat.
- Halloween Oreo Brownies: Rich, chocolatey, and packed with seasonal charm, these brownies incorporate Oreos and a fudgy base — ideal for fans of Crockpot Candy who want to explore another decadent dessert option.
Crockpot Candy
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: About 80 pieces
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This easy 3-ingredient Crockpot Candy recipe features rich semi-sweet chocolate, creamy white almond bark, and crunchy salted peanuts. A no-fuss, delicious treat perfect for holiday gifting, party trays, or a simple homemade dessert fix.
Ingredients
- 32 oz dry roasted salted peanuts (about 6 cups)
- 32 oz white almond bark, broken into pieces (about 1 1/3 packages)
- 18 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (about 2 1/4 cups)
- Optional: Sprinkles or sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Line four large cookie sheets with parchment or wax paper and set aside.
- Spread the peanuts in an even layer at the bottom of a 5-quart or larger crockpot.
- Add the broken almond bark and chocolate chips on top of the peanuts. Do not stir.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 1 hour without removing the lid.
- After 1 hour, stir the mixture thoroughly to combine. Continue cooking for another hour, stirring every 20 minutes.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop heaping mounds of the chocolate-peanut mixture onto the prepared cookie sheets.
- Immediately top with sprinkles if desired while the candy is still wet.
- Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes or until the candy is fully set.
Notes
- Do not use white chocolate chips in place of almond bark, as they do not set firmly.
- Be careful not to let condensation drip into the chocolate when removing the lid to stir.
- Store candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
- To freeze, let candy fully set and then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Use cupcake liners for a polished, gift-friendly presentation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Candy
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg