Crock Pot Candy

Crock Pot Candy is one of my favorite no-fuss treats—sweet, salty, crunchy, and totally addictive. I love how it all comes together right in the slow cooker with minimal effort and maximum reward. Loaded with chocolate, peanut butter, and roasted nuts, each cluster has the perfect mix of smooth and crunchy textures. It’s the ultimate homemade candy for gifting or snacking during the holidays… or any time I need a chocolate fix.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it requires zero baking and hardly any cleanup. I just toss everything into the slow cooker, stir a few times, and the result is a batch of rich, decadent candies that taste like they came from a gourmet shop. The sweet-salty combo of peanuts and chocolate, along with a smooth peanut butter finish, makes this candy truly irresistible. It’s also easy to customize with whatever I have on hand—perfect for last-minute treats or edible gifts.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 16 oz salted dry roasted peanuts

• 16 oz unsalted dry roasted peanuts

• 1 (12 oz) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 (12 oz) bag milk chocolate chips

• 2 (10 oz) packages peanut butter chips

• 2 lbs white almond bark or vanilla candy coating, broken into chunks

directions

1. I start by layering the salted and unsalted peanuts in the bottom of my slow cooker.

2. Next, I add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and peanut butter chips right on top of the peanuts.

3. I finish by placing the chunks of almond bark or candy coating over everything.

4. I cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 2 to 3 hours. I don’t stir during this time—I just let the heat slowly melt everything together.

5. After about 2 hours, I stir the mixture until it’s fully combined and smooth.

6. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, I drop small mounds of the mixture onto parchment or wax paper-lined baking sheets.

7. I let the candies cool and set at room temperature for several hours, or I speed things up by placing the trays in the fridge.

8. Once they’re firm, I store them in an airtight container.

Servings and timing

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 2–3 hours (in slow cooker)

• Set time: 1–2 hours

• Total time: ~4–5 hours

• Yields: About 60–70 candies

Variations

When I want to switch things up, I sometimes add crushed pretzels, mini marshmallows, or chopped toffee bits into the mix before scooping the candy out. Around the holidays, I like to top each cluster with red and green sprinkles for a festive touch. I’ve also tried this recipe with cashews and almonds instead of peanuts, and it’s just as delicious.

storage/reheating

I store Crock Pot Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the fridge if my kitchen is warm. For long-term storage, I freeze the candies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, then transfer to a bag once solid. They keep well for up to 3 months. I just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving—no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I use only one type of nut?

Yes, I’ve made this with just salted or just unsalted peanuts. I prefer a mix for the best flavor balance, but either works on its own.

What is almond bark and can I substitute it?

Almond bark is a vanilla-flavored candy coating that melts smoothly. If I don’t have it, I use white chocolate chips or candy melts, though the texture may vary slightly.

Do I have to stir during the cooking process?

No, I leave it alone for the first 2 hours. Stirring too early can cause uneven melting or seize the chocolate.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes, I melt everything in a large pot over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid scorching, then follow the same steps to portion and cool the candy.

Is this candy good for gifting?

Absolutely. I love packing these in festive tins or clear treat bags with ribbon. They make wonderful homemade gifts for holidays, birthdays, or thank-you treats.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Candy is my go-to recipe when I want a simple, satisfying treat with big payoff and minimal effort. It’s rich, creamy, crunchy, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m filling cookie trays, planning a holiday dessert spread, or just treating myself, this easy candy never fails to impress.