Easy Crockpot Christmas Candy

Y’all, the scent of chocolate and peanut butter swirling through the house just screams Christmas, doesn’t it? I’ve made this Crockpot Christmas Candy recipe every year for the past decade, and it’s become a tradition as essential as putting up the tree. It’s so simple, even my kiddos can help (mostly with the sprinkles!). This easy, no-bake candy is perfect for sharing with neighbors, gifting to teachers, or just enjoying as a sweet treat while watching holiday movies. I promise this recipe will become a family favorite, just like it is in my home here in Texas.

Why This Recipe Works

Let’s face it, during the holidays, time is precious. That’s why I love this Crockpot Christmas Candy recipe. It’s a lifesaver for busy parents like me, and here’s why:

• Effortless: The slow cooker does all the work! Just dump, stir occasionally, and you’re done. No candy thermometer needed!
• Kid-Friendly: My kids adore helping sprinkle the toppings. It’s a fun and delicious activity we can do together.
• Make-Ahead: You can easily make this candy a few days (or even weeks!) in advance, freeing up your time for other holiday tasks.
• Perfect for Gifting: This candy is beautiful and travels well, making it the perfect homemade gift for friends, family, and neighbors.

Ingredients

• 24 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 12 ounces milk chocolate chips
• 1 (12-ounce) package butterscotch chips
• 1 (16-ounce) jar creamy peanut butter
• 1 (12-ounce) can salted peanuts
• Holiday sprinkles, for topping

Ingredient Notes

Here’s a little more detail about why I chose these ingredients and some possible substitutions.

• Chocolate Chips: I prefer a blend of semi-sweet and milk chocolate for a balanced sweetness. You can use all of one kind if you prefer. Dark chocolate chips will also work for a richer flavor.
• Butterscotch Chips: These add a lovely butterscotch flavor and help with the candy’s texture. If you can’t find them, you can substitute white chocolate chips or even more semi-sweet chocolate chips.
• Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is best for a smooth consistency. Avoid natural peanut butter, as the oil separation can affect the final product.
• Salted Peanuts: The saltiness balances the sweetness perfectly. You can use unsalted peanuts and add a pinch of salt to the mixture if you prefer. Pecans or walnuts would also be delicious alternatives.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This is where the magic happens! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have delicious Crockpot Christmas Candy in no time.

1. Step 1: Combine Ingredients: In a large slow cooker, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter.
2. Step 2: Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 1-2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to prevent burning. The mixture should be completely melted and smooth. After testing this several times, I learned that every slow cooker is different, so keep a close eye on it.
3. Step 3: Add Peanuts: Stir in the salted peanuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the chocolate mixture. The peanuts add a nice crunch that complements the smooth chocolate.
4. Step 4: Spread and Sprinkle: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer. Immediately sprinkle with holiday sprinkles. This is where the kids love to help!
5. Step 5: Chill and Break: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the candy is firm. Once firm, break the candy into pieces. Don’t worry about perfect shapes; the rustic look is part of the charm.

Storage & Meal Prep

Here’s how to keep your Crockpot Christmas Candy fresh and delicious.

• Storage: Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the candy pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Make-Ahead: You can make this candy up to 2 weeks in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It’s a great way to get ahead on your holiday baking.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to switch things up a bit? Here are some substitutions and variations I’ve tried (and some I haven’t, but think would be great!).

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Make sure to check the peanut butter label as well.
• Nut-Free: Substitute the peanuts with pretzels or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
• White Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Peppermint Bark: Add crushed peppermint candies to the top along with the sprinkles for a peppermint bark-inspired treat. My family loves this version!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Crockpot Christmas Candy is perfect for making ahead. You can make it up to two weeks in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a lifesaver during the busy holiday season.

How do I know when the chocolate is done melting?

The chocolate mixture is done when it is completely melted and smooth. Stir it every 30 minutes to prevent burning, and be patient. It may take up to 2 hours, depending on your slow cooker.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

I don’t recommend using natural peanut butter because the oil separation can affect the candy’s texture. Creamy peanut butter works best for a smooth consistency.

What if my chocolate seizes up?

If your chocolate seizes up, try adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil or shortening to the mixture and stirring until it smooths out. Keep the slow cooker on low heat.

How do I store leftover candy?

Store leftover candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is very kid-friendly! My kids love helping me sprinkle the toppings, and they enjoy eating the candy even more. Just be sure to supervise them around the hot slow cooker.

Can I use different kinds of nuts?

Definitely! Feel free to substitute the peanuts with pecans, walnuts, or any other nuts you prefer. Just make sure they are salted for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Y’all, this Crockpot Christmas Candy is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition. It’s about creating memories with your family, sharing the love with friends and neighbors, and enjoying the simple pleasures of the holiday season. It’s a taste of Texas comfort, right from my kitchen to yours. So, gather your ingredients, put on some Christmas music, and get ready to make some magic! I hope you and your family enjoy this easy and delicious treat as much as mine does. Don’t forget to come back and leave a comment letting me know how it turned out! For more easy family recipes, be sure to check out FamiliesRecipes.com and sign up for our newsletter!

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