If you are hosting a holiday party over the next few weeks and want to put out a homemade chocolate dessert that uses a simple recipe, consider crockpot chocolate candy. All you need is chocolate, trail mix, some peanut butter, and festive sprinkles. This crockpot Christmas candy is a staple in my house and takes less time than you think. It truly is one of the easiest candy recipes I know.
How do you make crockpot candy?
Crockpot candy, also known as slow cooker candy, is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for holidays and special occasions.
- 24 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups of trail mix
- 4 bars of your favorite chocolate candy bar
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
- 2/3 cups of peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
Place all ingredients into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 1 hour. Stirring twice. Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with cupcake liners.
When the hour is up, stir the chocolate, and then, using a small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the chocolate and peanut mixture into the liners. You can make them as small or large as you prefer.
Refrigerate for at least two hours. Once the candies have fully hardened, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can be stored at room temperature for several weeks. Enjoy your homemade crockpot candy as a sweet treat, or give it as gifts during the holidays! Christmas baking at its best.
What are some variations I can do to this recipe?
Crockpot candy is a versatile treat, and you can easily customize it by adding various ingredients to create different flavors and textures. Here are some variations and ideas for you to consider:
- Rocky Road Crockpot Candy: Add miniature marshmallows and peanuts for a classic Rocky Road flavor.
- Nutty Crockpot Candy: Experiment with different types of nuts such as cashews, pecans, or macadamia nuts instead of or in addition to the peanuts.
- Fruity Crockpot Candy: Mix in dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots to add a sweet and tangy contrast.
- S’mores Crockpot Candy: Add crushed graham crackers and mini chocolate chips for a s’mores-inspired candy.
- Cookies and Cream Crockpot Candy: Incorporate crushed chocolate sandwich cookies or Oreo cookies into the mixture for a cookies and cream twist.
- Pretzel Toffee Crockpot Candy: Crushed pretzels can provide a salty crunch and complement the sweetness of the chocolate.
- Spiced Crockpot Candy: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices to the melted chocolate for a spiced flavor.
- Peppermint Bark Crockpot Candy: Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes can be mixed into the chocolate for a festive and minty flavor.
- Coconut Crockpot Candy: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist and an extra layer of texture.
- Coffee-Infused Crockpot Candy: Add instant coffee granules or espresso powder for a coffee-flavored candy.
- White Chocolate Crockpot Candy: Replace some or all of the chocolate with white chocolate for a creamy and less sweet alternative.
- Caramel Swirl Crockpot Candy: Drizzle caramel sauce or add caramel chips for a gooey caramel flavor.
- Almond Joy Crockpot Candy: Combine shredded coconut, almonds, and chocolate chips for an Almond Joy-inspired treat.
- Nutella Crockpot Candy: Add a dollop of Nutella to the mixture for a hazelnut-chocolate twist.
Remember that when experimenting with variations, it’s essential to maintain the right consistency and balance of ingredients to ensure your crockpot candy sets properly.
Can I freeze the chocolate when it is done cooking in the crockpot?
Yes, you can freeze the crockpot candy once it’s done cooking and has set. Freezing is an excellent way to store the candy for an extended period, especially if you’ve made a large batch or want to prepare it in advance for special occasions. Here’s how to freeze crockpot candy:
- Allow the Crockpot Candy to Cool: After making the candy and dropping spoonfuls onto a baking sheet or into molds, allow it to cool and harden at room temperature for a few hours or until it’s completely set.
- Arrange for Freezing: Once the candy has set, arrange it in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper. Make sure the individual pieces are not touching or sticking together.
- Pre-Freeze: Place the baking sheet with the candy in the freezer for about 1-2 hours. This pre-freezing step helps prevent the pieces from sticking together when you transfer them to a storage container.
- Transfer to an Airtight Container: Transfer the candy pieces into an airtight container or freezer-safe resealable bags once the candy pieces are partially frozen. Be sure to place parchment paper or wax paper between the layers of candy to prevent sticking.
Keep in mind that while freezing is an excellent method for long-term storage, some variations of crockpot candy may be more sensitive to temperature changes. For example, candies with a high moisture content may become slightly sticky when thawed. However, most crockpot candy recipes should freeze well and maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
How can I make this chocolate treat Christmas-themed?
To make Christmas crockpot candy, you can add festive ingredients, flavors, and decorations that evoke the spirit of the holiday season. Here are some ideas to give your crockpot candy a Christmas twist:
- Red and Green Candies: Incorporate red and green candy-coated chocolates or sprinkles into the mixture for a pop of holiday color.
- Peppermint Flavor: Add peppermint extract to the chocolate mixture to create a peppermint chocolate flavor. Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies can also be mixed in for added texture and flavor.
- Cranberries and Pistachios: Use dried cranberries and chopped pistachios for a red and green contrast that mimics Christmas colors.
- Gingerbread Spices: Add a pinch of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the melted chocolate to infuse the candy with gingerbread-like flavors.
- Holiday-Shaped Molds: Use silicone molds in the shape of Christmas trees, ornaments, or snowflakes to create themed chocolates.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: After the candy has set, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top and decorate with red and green sprinkles for a festive look.
- Miniature Marshmallow Snowballs: Place miniature marshmallows on top of the candy pieces before they fully set to create the appearance of snow-covered treats.
- Holiday Sprinkles: Top your candy pieces with Christmas-themed sprinkles, such as holly leaves, snowflakes, or Santa hats.
- Candy Cane Stripes: Melt white chocolate and tint it with red food coloring. Drizzle the red and white chocolate over the candy pieces to create candy cane stripes.
- Holiday Flavors: Experiment with holiday-inspired extracts like eggnog, rum, or gingerbread in your candy mixture.
You don’t have to overthink about this! Add some Christmas sprinkles / festive sprinkes and you will be good to go.
Can I Make Crockpot Candy on the Stovetop?
Yes, you can make a stovetop version of crockpot candy by using a double boiler or a saucepan over low heat. Break the chocolate into smaller pieces to help it melt evenly. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (make sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl), melt the chocolate, chocolate chips, and butter together. Stir occasionally until everything is fully melted and smooth.
How to Store Crockpot Candy
To store crockpot candy effectively, start by allowing it to cool completely at room temperature and line airtight containers with parchment or wax paper. Arrange the candy in a single layer, separating layers with additional paper if necessary.
Opt for airtight containers with secure seals to prevent moisture ingress. Generally, store the candy in a cool, dry place for several weeks at room temperature. However, during hot weather or in warm climates, consider refrigerating it.
Tips and Variations:
- Add in white almond bark, peanut butter chips, white chocolate chips, toffee bits, rice krispies, mini marshmallows, candy melts, dark chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, pretzel pieces, vanilla almond bark, white candy melt, or dry-roasted peanuts.
- Remember to tell people with nut allergies the ingredients to these crock pot chocolate peanut clusters. It’s always important to discuss these details when offering homemade treats to friends.
- Wrap two or three clusters in festive cellophane bags and hand out as gifts. Be sure to provide a printable recipe card to this great recipe.
Candy clusters made via slow cooking are the edible gift idea you’ve been looking for! Head to your local grocery store and pick up all the supplies you need to get started.
Crockpot Candy for the Holidays
If you are hosting a holiday party over the next few weeks and want to put out a homemade chocolate dessert that uses a simple recipe, consider crockpot chocolate candy. All you need is chocolate, trail mix, some peanut butter, and festive sprinkles. This crockpot Christmas candy is a staple in my house and takes less time than you think. It truly is one of the easiest candy recipes I know.
Ingredients
- 24 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups of trail mix
- 4 bars of your favorite chocolate candy bar
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
- 2/3 cups of peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
Place all ingredients into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 1 hour. Stirring twice.
Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with cupcake liners. When the hour is up, stir the chocolate, and then, using a small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the chocolate and peanut mixture into the liners. You can make them as small or large as you prefer.
Refrigerate for at least two hours. Once the candies have fully hardened, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 20 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 313Total Fat: 22gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 64mgCarbohydrates: 31gFiber: 3gSugar: 23gProtein: 6g