This Crockpot Candy Recipe is a rich and festive treat made with smooth dark chocolate, crunchy roasted peanuts, colorful M&M’s, and a sprinkle of holiday magic. I love how the slow cooker does all the work—melting everything into chocolatey perfection with minimal mess and no oven required. These chocolate peanut clusters are ideal for holiday gifting, dessert trays, or just snacking straight from the fridge. I make them every year because they’re quick, easy, and everyone always asks for the recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy making this recipe because it’s incredibly simple and doesn’t require any fancy candy-making skills. Here’s why I keep coming back to it:

• The slow cooker melts everything evenly with zero hassle.
• It makes a big batch that’s perfect for parties, cookie exchanges, or homemade gifts.
• I love the festive colors from the M&M’s and sprinkles—it instantly feels like the holidays.
• It’s super customizable depending on what I have in my pantry.
• There’s very little cleanup, especially when I use parchment paper.

Ingredients

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

• 20 ounces dark chocolate melting wafers – These give the candy a deep, rich flavor and melt smoothly in the crockpot.
• 12 ounces dry roasted peanuts – I like using salted, roasted peanuts for extra crunch and balance against the sweetness.
• 1 ½ cups red and green M&M’s – These add a festive look and a pop of sweetness in each bite.
• 2 tablespoons Christmas sprinkles (or more) – I sprinkle these on top for color, texture, and fun holiday flair.

Optional tools I use for this recipe include a slow cooker, measuring cups, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop for easy portioning.

Directions

1. I start by adding the dark chocolate wafers and roasted peanuts to my crockpot.
2. I cover and cook on low for about 1 hour. I stir it once halfway through to make sure everything melts evenly.
3. While it cooks, I line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to get ready for scooping.
4. Once the chocolate is fully melted, I let it cool for a couple of minutes before stirring in the M&M’s. This helps prevent the candy shell from cracking or melting.
5. I use a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop to drop clusters onto the lined baking sheet.
6. I immediately top each one with sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
7. I refrigerate the clusters for at least 1 hour or until fully firm. Sometimes I leave them on the counter to set if I’m not in a rush.

Servings And Timing

This recipe makes about 21 candy clusters, depending on the size I scoop.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 2 hours

Variations

I love switching things up with this recipe depending on my cravings or what I have in the pantry. Here are a few ways I customize it:

• Swap in white chocolate chips for a lighter, sweeter candy base.
• Use different nuts like almonds, cashews, or pecans for a new texture.
• Stir in peanut butter chips for extra richness.
• Add chopped pretzels for a salty, crunchy twist.
• Mix in a handful of mini marshmallows after melting for a chewy bite.
• Sprinkle toffee bits on top for buttery crunch.

Storage/Reheating

These treats are easy to store and keep well, which is one of the reasons I love making them ahead of time.

• Refrigerator: I store the clusters in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. I place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking. I like to let them sit out for a few minutes before eating so they’re not too hard.
• Freezer: I freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. I sometimes use cupcake liners to separate each one. They’re just as delicious right from the freezer.

FAQs

Can I Use Milk Or White Chocolate Instead?

Yes, I often mix in milk chocolate or white chocolate chips depending on who I’m making them for. Just be sure to use a good-quality chocolate that melts easily.

Do I Need To Temper The Chocolate?

No, I don’t temper the chocolate for this recipe. The slow cooker melts it gently enough to get a glossy, smooth finish without any special techniques.

Can I Add Other Toppings?

Definitely. I like to top them with flaky sea salt, crushed peppermint candies, or chopped nuts. Just sprinkle them on right after scooping so they stick before the chocolate sets.

Can I Make This Recipe In The Microwave?

Yes, I’ve made it in the microwave in a pinch. I melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, then mix in the peanuts and follow the same process to scoop and chill.

Is This A Good Recipe For Gifting?

Absolutely. I often make a batch and package the clusters in clear treat bags or small tins. It’s an easy and budget-friendly gift that always gets compliments.

Conclusion

I love how this Crockpot Candy recipe makes homemade holiday treats feel effortless. It’s one of those recipes that looks impressive, tastes amazing, and doesn’t require a lot of work. I always keep the ingredients on hand during the holidays because I know I’ll be making more than one batch. Whether I’m adding them to a cookie platter or wrapping them up for friends, these chocolate peanut clusters never last long.

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