There is something truly magical about homemade sweets during the holiday season, and this Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe brings that festive joy right to your kitchen with incredible ease. Imagine rich melted chocolates mingling with crunchy peanuts, soft mini marshmallows, and festive sprinkles, all slow-cooked to create perfect little bite-sized treats that capture the spirit of Christmas. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a wonderfully simple way to fill your home with warmth and delicious holiday aromas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is straightforward and rewarding because each one plays a crucial role in creating the texture, flavor, and eye-catching look of this festive candy. Whether it’s the smoothness of the chocolates, the crunch of the peanuts, or the marshmallows’ fluffy sweetness, every element matters!
- White almond bark (2 pounds, chopped or broken into pieces): This forms the creamy, sweet base that melts beautifully in the crockpot, giving the candy its luscious white chocolate flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (12 ounces): They add a slightly bitter richness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Milk chocolate chips (12 ounces): For a smooth, sweet chocolate flavor that complements the semi-sweet chips.
- Dry roasted peanuts (16 ounces, salted or unsalted): These bring a satisfying crunch and nutty depth to every bite.
- Cocktail peanuts (16 ounces): Their smaller size ensures even peanut distribution and texture contrast.
- Mini marshmallows (1½ cups): Adding a fun, pillowy softness that makes the candy extra special and festive.
- Red and green holiday sprinkles (optional): These provide a delightful splash of color and festive cheer on top of the candies.
How to Make Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe
Step 1: Combine and Cook the Ingredients
Start by placing the white almond bark, semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, dry roasted peanuts, and cocktail peanuts all together in a large slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for about one and a half to two hours without stirring. This method allows the chocolates to melt gently and the nuts to infuse their flavors without overheating or burning, which is the secret to smooth, creamy candy.
Step 2: Stir to Combine
Once the chocolates have fully melted, carefully stir everything together until you have a smooth, evenly mixed blend of nuts and chocolate. This is where you can really see your Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe coming to life—a velvety, nut-studded confection base that’s about to get even better.
Step 3: Add the Mini Marshmallows
Turn off the heat and gently fold in the mini marshmallows. Their softness will contrast nicely with the crunchy nuts and creamy chocolate, giving the candy that irresistible texture and playful sweetness that feels perfect for any holiday gathering.
Step 4: Shape and Chill
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things tidy. Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of the candy mixture on the paper. If you want to add a festive finishing touch, sprinkle red and green holiday sprinkles on top while the candy is still soft. Let everything cool and harden at room temperature, or speed up the process by placing the tray in the refrigerator.
How to Serve Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkles add a colorful finish, but you can also consider drizzling white chocolate over the candies once they’re set for an elegant touch. A dusting of chopped nuts or even a pinch of sea salt can also elevate the flavor and presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
This candy shines on its own as a sweet treat but pairs wonderfully with warm drinks like spiced cider, hot cocoa, or a robust coffee. A festive party platter with cheeses and fresh fruit complements the candy’s richness, offering a well-balanced holiday dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider nesting the candies in festive cupcake liners or arranging them in decorative tins to make charming gifts for friends and family. Wrapping them individually in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon is another thoughtful way to share this delightful Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover candy in an airtight container at room temperature, keeping it fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks. This makes it perfect for preparing in advance before the holiday rush or for savoring throughout the season.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, these candies freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months.
Reheating
Because this candy is best enjoyed cool and firm, reheating is generally not necessary. If the candy softens, simply let it come back to room temperature or pop it in the refrigerator for a short period to reset its structure.
FAQs
Can I substitute other nuts for peanuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work wonderfully as substitutes or additions if you want to mix things up or accommodate different tastes. Just keep the total nut quantity the same for consistent texture.
Is it necessary to use a crockpot for this recipe?
While the crockpot makes melting the ingredients so easy and foolproof, you can also melt the chocolates gently in a double boiler on the stovetop. Just be careful to stir often and avoid burning the chocolate.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian. For a vegan version, look for dairy-free white and milk chocolate alternatives and ensure your marshmallows are gelatin-free.
How long will the candy keep its best texture?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these candies stay fresh and crunchy for about two weeks. Beyond that, they may start to soften or lose that fresh texture.
Can I use holiday-colored candy melts instead of traditional chocolate?
Yes! Using holiday-colored candy melts can add a festive vibe and make the candies even more visually appealing. Just note that candy melts have a slightly different texture than chocolate, making the final candy a bit sweeter and less creamy.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe a try and enjoy the comfort and fun it brings during the holiday season. It’s a simple, scrumptious way to create festive sweets that everyone will love, and the joy of mixing, scooping, and sharing these homemade candies is second to none. Happy holidays 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, Candy
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Crockpot Christmas Candy is a delightful no-bake holiday treat featuring a rich blend of white almond bark, semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips, and a mix of roasted and cocktail peanuts. Soft mini marshmallows add a chewy contrast, while optional red and green sprinkles make it festive and perfect for gifting or sharing at holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Chocolate and Nuts
- 2 pounds white almond bark (chopped or broken into pieces)
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 12 oz milk chocolate chips
- 16 oz dry roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted)
- 16 oz cocktail peanuts
Add-ins and Toppings
- 1½ cups mini marshmallows
- Red and green holiday sprinkles for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place the white almond bark, semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, dry roasted peanuts, and cocktail peanuts into a large slow cooker.
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 1½ to 2 hours, allowing the chocolate and almond bark to melt completely. Do not stir during this time.
- Stir to Combine: Once melted, stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are fully combined and evenly mixed.
- Add Marshmallows: Turn off the heat and gently fold in the mini marshmallows without melting them.
- Prepare Candy Shapes: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of the candy mixture onto the parchment paper.
- Decorate (Optional): While the candies are still soft, sprinkle with red and green holiday sprinkles for a festive look.
- Set the Candies: Allow the candies to cool and harden at room temperature or speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator.
- Store Properly: Once set, store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- You can substitute pecans or almonds for some or all of the peanuts for different flavors and textures.
- For an extra festive twist, try using colored candy melts in place of some almond bark or drizzle with white chocolate after candies have set.
