Crockpot Christmas Crack – The Easiest Holiday Candy You’ll Ever Make
Crockpot Christmas Crack – The Easiest Holiday Candy You’ll Ever Make
There’s something magical about December kitchens. The scent of peppermint in the air, hot cocoa on the stove, Bing Crosby crooning away like he owns the place, and everyone pretending the wrapping paper isn’t already a disaster zone. Some families decorate gingerbread houses, others build snowmen. In mine, we slowly, lovingly hover over the crockpot like it’s a tiny chocolate factory… because that’s where Christmas Crack happens.
This recipe is one of those holiday treasures that somehow tastes like childhood and grown-up indulgence at the same time. It’s sweet, salty, chocolatey, and unbelievably simple — the kind of treat that vanishes off a cookie tray faster than you can say “Where did the last piece go?” My grandmother swore by this recipe every year. She’d line the counters with parchment, set out sprinkles like glittering ornaments, and every kid got exactly one job: don’t eat it before it cools. We all failed, obviously.
There’s no oven, no candy thermometer, no complicated steps. Just a slow cooker doing what it does best, melting everything into a glorious holiday miracle. It’s perfect for those chaotic days when your schedule is stuffed like a Christmas stocking, but you still want something homemade to share with neighbors, teachers, coworkers, or late-night snack-goblins disguised as family members.
So pour a cup of cocoa, queue up your favorite holiday playlist, and get ready to make what may become your signature Christmas candy tradition. One bite and it’s over — this recipe will follow you every December for the rest of time.
Crockpot Christmas Crack Recipe
Ingredients
(unchanged as requested)
16 Oz. Salted Peanuts
16 Oz. Unsalted Peanuts
2 12 Oz. Bags Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
2 10 Oz. Bags Peanut Butter Chips
2 10 Oz. Bags White Chocolate Chips Or Wafers
Christmas Sprinkles
How To Make Crockpot Christmas Crack
(unchanged as requested)
Layer the peanuts in the bottom of the Crockpot and mix to combine.
Add the remaining ingredients in layers over the peanuts.
Cook on low for 2 hours.
Remove the lid and stir completely.
Return the lid, and cook for another 30 minutes on low.
Drop the candy by the spoonful onto parchment lined baking sheets or into mini cupcake liners.
Top with Christmas colored sprinkles and let harden before serving.
Enjoy!
Tips, Tricks & Variations
• Don’t stir early. Let the chocolate melt low and slow before mixing so everything blends smoothly.
• Add-ins: mini marshmallows, pretzel pieces, crushed candy canes, toffee bits, or festive M&Ms take it from great to outrageous.
• Nut substitutes: swap peanuts for almonds, pecans, or cashews if preferred. Nut-free? Use pretzels or crispy rice cereal instead.
• Flavor twist ideas:
– drizzle caramel over the top before cooling
– add a teaspoon of sea salt flakes for gourmet vibes
– use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor
How to Serve Your Christmas Crack
• Pile into holiday tins for gifting
• Add to cookie trays for parties
• Serve with hot cocoa during movie nights
• Bag individually as edible stocking stuffers
• Bring to work and watch coworkers swarm
This sweet treat pairs beautifully with coffee, peppermint lattes, mulled cider, or — let’s be honest — eaten standing over the counter at midnight like holiday gremlins.
Storage & Freezing Tips
• Store in an airtight container up to 3–4 weeks (if it even lasts).
• Keep in a cool place to prevent melting.
• Freeze up to 3 months; layer with parchment to prevent sticking.
• Let thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating.
Great for make-ahead holiday prep.
FAQ
Can I make this without a crockpot?
Yes. Melt everything gently using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Then proceed with the same shaping and cooling steps.
Why two kinds of peanuts?
Salted & unsalted balance flavor and create that perfect sweet-salty crunch. Using one type only works, but the contrast is what makes it addictive.
Can I cut this into bars instead of drops?
Absolutely. Spread mixture in a parchment-lined pan, cool completely, then slice into squares.
Does this work for gifting?
It’s actually one of the best homemade gifts because it stays fresh long and travels well without crumbling like cookies sometimes do.
