Crock Pot Candy Recipe | Easy Old-Fashioned Chocolate Peanut Clusters
I still remember the first time I made Crock Pot Candy for the holidays. The sweet smell of melting chocolate filled the kitchen, and the creamy mix of peanuts and rich chocolate reminded me of old-fashioned candy shops. What I loved most was how effortless it was no candy thermometer, no fuss, just a slow cooker doing all the magic while I wrapped gifts.
This recipe is the perfect holiday treat. It makes a big batch, is budget-friendly, and creates glossy, chocolatey clusters that disappear fast from dessert trays. Whether you’re making it for Christmas cookie swaps, gift tins, or a cozy movie night, Crock Pot Candy is a recipe you’ll come back to every year.
Crock Pot Candy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Layer ingredients in a 4-quart crock pot in this order: salted peanuts, unsalted peanuts, semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped almond bark, and German sweet chocolate.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 1.5 hours without stirring.
- After time is up, stir everything until smooth and fully melted.
- Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, portion out small clusters onto wax or parchment paper.
- Let candies cool and set fully at room temperature before storing or serving.
Nutrition
Notes
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Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Candy
- Foolproof no special candy skills required.
- Creamy, nutty, and chocolatey in every bite.
- Perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or any party platter.
- Stores beautifully, making it great for homemade gifts.
Ingredients You’ll Need (and Tips for Swaps)
| Ingredient | Amount | Substitution Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Salted peanuts | 16 oz | Use all unsalted if you prefer less salt. |
| Unsalted peanuts | 16 oz | Swap for pecans, almonds, or cashews. |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 16 oz | Milk chocolate chips for a sweeter candy. |
| White almond bark (chopped) | 24 oz | White chocolate chips can work too. |
| German sweet chocolate bar (chopped) | 4 oz | Dark chocolate bar for a richer flavor. |
How to Make Crock Pot Candy Step by Step
- Layer ingredients: In a 4-quart crock pot, add salted peanuts first, then unsalted peanuts, chocolate chips, almond bark, and German sweet chocolate.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for about 1.5 hours.
- Stir until smooth: Once melted, stir well until everything blends into a silky mixture.
- Scoop and set: Spoon small clusters onto wax or parchment paper.
- Cool and enjoy: Let candies set completely at room temperature before serving or storing.
How to Serve Crock Pot Candy
- Holiday trays: Mix with cookies, fudge, and truffles for a festive platter.
- Gift idea: Wrap in cellophane bags with a ribbon or pack into mason jars.
- Seasonal twist: Add crushed candy canes for Christmas or pastel sprinkles for Easter.
Pro Tips for the Best Crock Pot Candy
- Use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized clusters.
- Don’t overcook chocolate can burn if left too long.
- For extra shine, stir in 1 tsp coconut oil with the chocolate.
- Add toppings like sea salt, sprinkles, or mini marshmallows.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cooking on HIGH this will scorch the chocolate.
- Skipping the layering order ingredients melt more evenly in order.
- Not stirring after melting leaves lumps in the candy.
- Storing warm always let candies fully set before packing.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
| Storage Method | How to Store | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temp | Airtight container, cool place | Up to 2 weeks |
| Refrigerator | Sealed container | 3–4 weeks |
| Freezer | Layered with parchment in freezer bag | 2–3 months |
Tip: Thaw frozen candy at room temp to avoid condensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Crock Pot Candy without almond bark?
Yes, swap with white chocolate chips, though almond bark sets firmer.
What size slow cooker works best?
A 4-quart crock pot is ideal, but you can use a 6-quart for double batches.
Can I use different nuts?
Absolutely cashews, almonds, or pecans taste amazing.
Can I gift Crock Pot Candy?
Yes, it stays fresh for weeks and looks beautiful in gift bags or tins.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Candy is the easiest way to make chocolate clusters that taste like they came from a candy shop. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you get a holiday treat that’s perfect for gifting, snacking, or sharing at parties.
Save this recipe for your next celebration one batch will turn into a yearly tradition.
