Crockpot Christmas Crack Recipe
Crockpot Christmas Crack is the ultimate holiday treat, combining simplicity with irresistible flavors. This festive candy brings together the crunch of salted peanuts and the creamy richness of melted chocolate, all conveniently made in a slow cooker. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a homemade gift idea, this recipe guarantees smiles and satisfied taste buds. Its straightforward preparation and delightful taste make it a must-have on your holiday dessert table.
Ingredients Breakdown
Salted dry roasted peanuts add crunch and a savory touch that perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate, while semi-sweet chocolate chips bring a bittersweet depth to the candy. Chocolate bars or bark melt smoothly, binding everything together for a creamy, cohesive treat. For variety, try swapping in dark chocolate for a richer flavor or mix in pretzels or festive candy-coated chocolates for added texture and color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
To make Crockpot Christmas Crack, follow these easy steps for a foolproof result:
Begin by preparing the crockpot. Spray the inside with non-stick cooking spray or use a crockpot liner to ensure easy cleanup. While this step may seem minor, it prevents any sticky chocolate from hardening in the pot.
Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with silicone mats or wax paper. This ensures that the candies can be removed effortlessly once set.
Break the almond bark into manageable pieces and arrange them at the bottom of the crockpot. This layering technique allows for even melting.
Next, add the salted peanuts, followed by the chocolate bark and semi-sweet chocolate chips. The layering ensures that the chocolate melts evenly and coats the nuts thoroughly.
Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat for one hour. Avoid the temptation to peek, as this can disrupt the melting process.
After an hour, stir the mixture well to combine the melted chocolate and peanuts. If any chunks remain, cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully melted and smooth.
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop heaping tablespoons of the candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheets. Act quickly, as the chocolate will begin to set.
Sprinkle each candy mound with festive sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet. Allow the candies to cool completely at room temperature until they harden. Once set, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Stir frequently:
Stirring prevents the chocolate from burning and ensures an even coating for the peanuts.
Cooking time adjustments:
If using a high-powered crockpot, check the mixture after 45 minutes to prevent overcooking.
Storage:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For extended freshness, refrigerate the candies.
Chocolate variety:
You can experiment with dark, milk, or white chocolate based on your taste preferences.
Prevent seizing:
To avoid chocolate seizing, ensure that the crockpot and utensils are completely dry before starting.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Crockpot Christmas Crack shines as a standalone treat, but pairing it with other holiday goodies elevates your dessert table. Serve it alongside an assortment of cookies, such as gingerbread or sugar cookies, for a varied texture and flavor profile.
For festive gatherings, consider arranging the candies on a platter with homemade fudge and chocolate-covered pretzels. The salty-sweet combination creates a crowd-pleasing spread. When gifting, package the candies in decorative tins or clear bags tied with holiday-themed ribbons for a thoughtful homemade present.
Customization Ideas
The beauty of Crockpot Christmas Crack lies in its adaptability. Add crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist or sprinkle in dried cranberries for a fruity contrast. Love peanut butter? Swirl in a few tablespoons of peanut butter before shaping the candies for a rich, nutty flavor.
For other holidays, swap out the sprinkles for seasonally appropriate colors. Think pastel sprinkles for Easter or orange and black for Halloween. This versatile recipe can be your go-to treat for any occasion.
Crockpot Christmas Crack is more than just a recipe—it’s a holiday tradition that brings joy to both the maker and the eater. Its simplicity, adaptability, and irresistible taste make it a favorite for holiday gatherings and gift-giving. Embrace the ease of this slow-cooked treat and share the joy of homemade candy with friends and family this season.
Ingredients
5 cups salted dry roasted peanuts
12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
12 ounces chocolate bar or chocolate bark
Instructions
Prepare your crockpot by spraying the inside with non-stick cooking spray or using a crockpot liner for a hassle-free cleanup.
Line two baking sheets with silicone mats or wax paper and set them aside for later use.
Break the almond bark into smaller pieces and arrange them evenly at the bottom of the crockpot.
Layer the salted peanuts over the almond bark, followed by the chocolate bark and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low heat for one hour.
After an hour, remove the lid and thoroughly stir the mixture, ensuring the peanuts are evenly coated in the melted chocolate. If any chocolate pieces remain unmelted, replace the lid and continue cooking. Stir every 15 minutes until all the chocolate is fully melted and the peanuts are thoroughly coated.
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, carefully drop heaping tablespoons of the chocolate-peanut mixture onto the prepared baking sheets.
Quickly decorate each candy mound with sprinkles before the chocolate sets. Allow the candies to cool completely at room temperature until the chocolate hardens.
Once cooled and set, transfer the Christmas Crack to an airtight container for storage.
Crockpot Christmas Crack Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 cups salted dry roasted peanuts
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 12 ounces chocolate bar or chocolate bark
Instructions
- Prepare your crockpot by spraying the inside with non-stick cooking spray or using a crockpot liner for a hassle-free cleanup.
- Line two baking sheets with silicone mats or wax paper and set them aside for later use.
- Break the almond bark into smaller pieces and arrange them evenly at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Layer the salted peanuts over the almond bark, followed by the chocolate bark and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low heat for one hour.
- After an hour, remove the lid and thoroughly stir the mixture, ensuring the peanuts are evenly coated in the melted chocolate. If any chocolate pieces remain unmelted, replace the lid and continue cooking. Stir every 15 minutes until all the chocolate is fully melted and the peanuts are thoroughly coated.
- Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, carefully drop heaping tablespoons of the chocolate-peanut mixture onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Quickly decorate each candy mound with sprinkles before the chocolate sets. Allow the candies to cool completely at room temperature until the chocolate hardens.
- Once cooled and set, transfer the Christmas Crack to an airtight container for storage.