Crockpot Christmas Crack Recipe

Crockpot Christmas Crack is the ultimate holiday treat that combines sweet, salty, and nutty flavors in one irresistible bite. Made with simple ingredients like chocolate, peanut butter, and crunchy peanuts, this easy slow-cooker recipe is perfect for gifting, snacking, or adding to your holiday dessert table. The best part? Your trusty crockpot does most of the work, making it a stress-free way to whip up a festive favorite.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Christmas Crack

1. Minimal Effort: The crockpot handles the melting and mixing for you.
2. Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients readily available in most kitchens.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite toppings for a personalized twist.
4. Perfect for Gifting: Package it in cute bags or jars for an edible holiday gift.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s always a hit at parties.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Measure the Ingredients:
   • Gather all your ingredients and measure them out for easy layering.
2. Line Baking Sheets:
   • Prepare 2–3 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to avoid sticking.

Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot

1. Start with Peanuts:
   • Layer the salted and unsalted peanuts at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add the Chocolate:
   • Evenly sprinkle the semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips over the peanuts.
3. Top with Almond Bark:
   • Scatter the chunks of almond bark on top.
4. Add Peanut Butter:
   • Scoop the peanut butter on top of the almond bark, ensuring even distribution.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

1. Set the Temperature:
   • Turn the crockpot to low heat to prevent scorching the chocolate.
2. Cook Time:
   • Allow the mixture to cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking every 30 minutes.
3. Stir Gently:
   • Once the chocolate starts to melt, gently stir the mixture to combine the ingredients.
4. Final Check:
   • Ensure all the chocolate is melted and the peanuts are evenly coated before moving to the next step.

Step 4: Form the Treats

1. Scoop the Mixture:
   • Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets.
2. Add Toppings:
   • While the mixture is still warm, sprinkle with crushed pretzels, holiday sprinkles, or mini marshmallows for added texture and color.
3. Cool Completely:
   • Allow the treats to cool and harden at room temperature for 1–2 hours or speed up the process by placing the trays in the fridge.

Tips for Success

1. Use High-Quality Chocolate: Opt for good-quality chocolate chips and almond bark for a smoother texture and richer flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook: Chocolate can scorch if left too long, so keep an eye on your crockpot.
3. Layer Strategically: Placing the peanuts on the bottom prevents the chocolate from burning.
4. Test for Consistency: Stir occasionally to ensure even melting and coating.
5. Work Quickly: Once melted, scoop the mixture quickly as it hardens fast when cooled.

Variations

1. Dark Chocolate Delight: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet version.
2. Nut-Free Version: Replace peanuts with sunflower seeds or puffed rice for those with nut allergies.
3. Festive Colors: Add red and green M&Ms or color-dyed white chocolate for holiday cheer.
4. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili powder into the chocolate for a spicy-sweet twist.
5. Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the treats and sprinkle with sea salt flakes before cooling.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Platters: Arrange Christmas Crack on a festive tray with other holiday treats.
• Gift Bags: Package in clear cellophane bags tied with holiday ribbons for thoughtful gifts.
• Hot Cocoa Pairing: Serve alongside a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy dessert experience.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring it to holiday parties as a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different nut instead of peanuts?
A: Absolutely! Try cashews, almonds, or pecans for a different flavor and texture.

Q: What if I don’t have almond bark?
A: Substitute white chocolate chips or candy melts. Just note that almond bark is easier to melt and provides a smoother finish.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, as long as your crockpot is large enough to handle the increased volume.

Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
A: Keep the crockpot on low heat and avoid introducing any water or steam into the mixture.

Fun Holiday Touches

• Edible Glitter: Dust the treats with edible glitter for a magical holiday sparkle.
• Custom Shapes: Press the mixture into cookie cutters for themed shapes before cooling.
• Candy Cane Crumble: Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the treats for a peppermint twist.

Conclusion

Crockpot Christmas Crack is an easy, delectable dessert that’s perfect for sharing during the holiday season. With its combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy elements, it’s a treat that’s guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe is sure to become a beloved holiday tradition.

So grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to spread holiday cheer—one bite at a time!

Yield: About 40 Pieces

Crockpot Christmas Crack Recipe

Print

Crockpot Christmas Crack is the ultimate holiday treat that combines sweet, salty, and nutty flavors in one irresistible bite. Made with simple ingredients like chocolate, peanut butter, and crunchy peanuts, this easy slow-cooker recipe is perfect for gifting, snacking, or adding to your holiday dessert table. The best part? Your trusty crockpot does most of the work, making it a stress-free way to whip up a festive favorite.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 2 hours

Cooling Time 1 hour

Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 16 oz salted dry-roasted peanuts
• 16 oz unsalted dry-roasted peanuts
• 1 bag (12 oz) semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 bag (12 oz) milk chocolate chips
• 2 cups white almond bark (or white candy melts), chopped
• 2 cups peanut butter chips
• 1 bag (10 oz) mini pretzels (optional, for extra crunch)
• Festive sprinkles (optional, for decoration)

Instructions

1. Layer the Ingredients:

1. Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Add the peanuts in an even layer at the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Layer the semisweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, and chopped almond bark on top of the peanuts. Do not stir.

2. Cook:

1. Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to LOW heat.
2. Let the mixture cook for 1.5-2 hours without stirring to allow the chocolate to melt gently.

3. Stir and Combine:

1. After 1.5-2 hours, remove the lid and stir the melted mixture until all the ingredients are well combined and smooth.
2. If using mini pretzels, gently fold them into the mixture for added texture and flavor.

4. Drop the Candy:

1. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or wax paper.
2. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheets.

5. Decorate and Cool:

1. If desired, top each piece with festive holiday sprinkles for a cheerful touch.
2. Let the candy cool and harden at room temperature for 1 hour, or place it in the refrigerator for quicker setting.

6. Serve or Package:

1. Once fully set, transfer the Christmas Crack to an airtight container for storage.
2. Serve on a holiday platter or package in decorative tins or bags for gifting.

Notes

• Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanuts with pretzels, cereal (like Rice Chex), or mini marshmallows.
• Microwave Method: If short on time, you can melt the chocolate and mix everything in a microwave-safe bowl instead of the crockpot.
• Holiday Variations: Customize the sprinkles and toppings to match any holiday or occasion.