Crock-Pot Candy

Crock-Pot candy clusters might just be the easiest, big batch Christmas candy to make this year! Melting chocolate isn't hard, but using a slow cooker makes it foolproof. Just plug in the Crock-Pot and let the low, even heat work its magic. The chocolate melts without seizing and yields a glossy coating for whatever sweet and salty mix-ins you choose. Invite kids into the kitchen to help decorate each one with candies and Christmas sprinkles, and you've got a treat worth sharing with family and friends! 

What are the best mix-ins for Crock-Pot candy?

This recipe packs in plenty of salty, roasted peanuts, potato chips, and pretzels, before garnishing with festive candies. But you can use any combination of your favorite ingredients. Try swapping in roasted pecans for the roasted peanuts or stirring in some toffee bits.

How else can you decorate Crock-Pot candy?

Crock-Pot candy can be decorated for any season or occasion! Change up the type or color of the candies that are sprinkled over top, or leave them off entirely. Use pastel colored coated candies for Easter, or orange and yellow Reese's pieces or M&M's for Halloween. For a baby shower treat, use either pink or blue candies, depending on the baby's gender (or a mix of both if it's a surprise).

What is almond bark?

Not to be confused with the almond bark confection, almond bark is totally different! Similar to candy melts, but in bar form, it's made with vegetable fats rather than cocoa butter, making it more similar to white chocolate. It melts smoothly, then firms up nicely, to create an even candy coating. Contrary to its name, it doesn't taste like almonds or have any strong flavor. As an ingredient, it's added to help stabilize the chocolate as well as to help the candy clusters solidify and store well. 

Does Crock-Pot make a good homemade food gift?

Absolutely! It's the perfect homemade food gift or addition to your Christmas cookie plate because it's super easy to make, and lasts up to a week. When you package it for gifting, place a piece of parchment paper between layers of candy. Or, if you're adding it to a Christmas cookie box, try placing each piece of candy in a cupcake liner. It looks cute and keeps treats separate. Just be sure this candy doesn't sit in a hot car or on a doorstep for too long or it could melt!