Crockpot Candy is a delightful and simple treat that you can whip up with minimal effort. This easy recipe requires only three ingredients, making it the ideal go-to dessert for the holidays. Whether you’re making it for family gatherings, holiday gifts, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this Crockpot Candy is sure to impress. The combination of chocolate, peanuts, and almond bark creates a sweet, crunchy, and indulgent candy that everyone will love.
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Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Candy Recipe
Crockpot Candy is incredibly simple to make, requiring just five minutes of prep time and a slow cooker. It’s a versatile recipe, perfect for customizing with various toppings and ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you’re making it for a holiday celebration or simply as a treat to snack on, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by all.
The recipe’s simplicity and the ability to make large batches make it perfect for food gifting during the holidays. Plus, the best part? You don’t need to worry about perfecting complicated techniques – just toss the ingredients into the crockpot, stir, and let it do the work for you!
Ingredients for Crockpot Candy
Here’s a look at the three basic ingredients you’ll need for this Crockpot Candy:
• Dry Roasted Salted Peanuts: These add a crunchy texture and a salty contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate. They also offer a good dose of protein, making this treat a satisfying snack.
• White Almond Bark: This is the base of the candy and gives it a smooth, creamy texture once melted. It also helps the candy set properly, so you get that perfect consistency when the chocolate cools.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The rich, slightly bitter taste of the chocolate chips balances perfectly with the sweetness of the almond bark, creating a delightful flavor combination.
Optional: Sprinkles or Sea Salt: These can be used as toppings to add a fun pop of color or extra flavor to your Crockpot Candy. They are entirely optional, but they do make for a festive finish, especially around the holidays.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
Looking to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences? Here are a few variations:
• Nuts: Swap out peanuts for other nuts like pecans, almonds, or cashews. These nuts provide a unique flavor and texture, while still offering that satisfying crunch.
• White Chocolate Chips: If you prefer white chocolate, simply swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips. This will give you a lighter, sweeter version of Crockpot Candy.
• Sprinkles: Instead of regular sprinkles, try sanding sugar for a more elegant, sparkly finish, or opt for seasonal holiday-themed sprinkles for a festive touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Crockpot Candy is easy. Follow these simple steps to prepare your perfect batch of holiday candy:
- Prepare the Baking Sheets: Line four large cookie sheets with parchment or wax paper. Set them aside to make the scooping process easy once your candy is ready.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the dry roasted peanuts evenly in the bottom of your 5-quart or larger crockpot.
- Add the Almond Bark and Chocolate Chips: Layer the almond bark and semi-sweet chocolate chips over the peanuts. Do not stir the mixture yet.
- Cook on Low for One Hour: Cover the crockpot with the lid and set the temperature to low. Let it cook for one hour without stirring.
- Stir and Continue Cooking: After one hour, stir the peanuts and chocolate mixture thoroughly. Cook for an additional hour, stirring every 20 minutes to ensure the mixture melts evenly.
- Scoop the Candy: Once the chocolate and almond bark are fully melted and combined, use a spoon to drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheets.
- Add Toppings: If you’re using sprinkles or sea salt, add them while the mixture is still wet so they will stick.
- Refrigerate to Set: Place the baking sheets in the fridge and allow the candy to set for 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
Tips for Perfect Crockpot Candy
To ensure your Crockpot Candy turns out perfectly every time, here are some essential tips:
• Avoid Condensation: Be careful when opening the crockpot to stir. If any water or condensation falls into the chocolate, it can cause it to seize and ruin the texture.
• Check for Firmness: Make sure the chocolate is completely set before handling the candy. Refrigerating it helps speed up this process.
• Use Cupcake Liners: If you’re giving the candy as a gift, use cupcake liners to scoop the candy into. This not only makes it easier to handle but also adds a cute presentation.
• Sprinkle Tips: If you’re using sprinkles, make sure to add them while the chocolate is still wet. This ensures that they will stick and stay on the candy.
Storage and Freezing Crockpot Candy
This Crockpot Candy is easy to store and can be kept for a few weeks or frozen for longer storage.
• Room Temperature Storage: Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Place a layer of parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent the candies from sticking together.
• Refrigeration: You can refrigerate the candy for up to three weeks. Just make sure it’s kept in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze your Crockpot Candy for up to two to three months. Once the candy has fully set, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zippered bag, and store it in the freezer.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Crockpot Candy is perfect on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of other treats for an indulgent snack spread.
• Serve with Hot Chocolate: The sweet and salty combination of Crockpot Candy pairs perfectly with a warm mug of hot chocolate. This is a great way to enhance the cozy holiday vibes.
• Gift Idea: Use colorful cupcake liners and package the candy in gift boxes for a homemade gift. You can even add a festive ribbon for a personal touch.
• Make-Ahead Options: Make Crockpot Candy ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. It makes for an easy snack during holiday gatherings and can also be shared as part of a holiday gift basket.
Conclusion
Making Crockpot Candy is a breeze, and the result is a decadent, delicious treat perfect for the holiday season. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests with an easy dessert or create something special for a holiday gift, this simple recipe checks all the boxes. With just three ingredients, a little patience, and some optional festive toppings, you can enjoy homemade Crockpot Candy that everyone will love.
FAQs About Crockpot Candy
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for Crockpot Candy?
Yes, you can use regular chocolate chips, but semi-sweet chocolate chips are the best choice for achieving the perfect balance of sweetness. If you prefer a sweeter candy, you may want to use milk chocolate chips as an alternative.
How long can I store Crockpot Candy?
Crockpot Candy can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you prefer longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to three weeks. Alternatively, it can be frozen for up to three months.
Can I make Crockpot Candy on the stovetop?
Yes, Crockpot Candy can be made on the stovetop as well. Simply melt the almond bark and chocolate chips over low heat in a large pot. Stir occasionally until fully melted, then add the peanuts and mix. Scoop onto baking sheets and allow to cool.
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Crockpot Candy
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 40–50 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy Crockpot Candy recipe combines the perfect balance of rich chocolate, crunchy salted peanuts, and creamy almond bark. With just three ingredients, this holiday treat is a breeze to make and perfect for gifting or snacking.
Ingredients
- 32 ounces dry roasted salted peanuts
- 32 ounces white almond bark, broken into pieces
- 18 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional: Sprinkles or Sea Salt
Instructions
- Line four large cookie sheets with parchment or wax paper. Set aside.
- Sprinkle the peanuts in an even layer in the bottom of your 5-quart or larger crockpot.
- Top with almond bark and chocolate chips. Do not mix.
- Cover with the lid and cook on low for one hour without stirring.
- After one hour, stir the peanuts and chocolate mixture well. Continue to cook for another hour, mixing every 20 minutes.
- Once the mixture is fully melted and mixed, drop heaping tablespoons of the candy onto the prepared cookie sheets.
- If using, top with sprinkles or sea salt while the candy is still wet.
- Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes or until the chocolate is set.
Notes
- Make sure no condensation falls into the crockpot while stirring, as it can cause the chocolate to seize.
- Use parchment or wax paper between layers of candy to prevent them from sticking together when storing.
- Refrigerating the candy helps it set faster and makes handling easier.
- For gift-giving, consider using cupcake liners to scoop the candy into for a nice presentation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Candy
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
