Crockpot Christmas Crack (Slow Cooker Chocolate Peanut Clusters)
Crockpot Christmas Crack is one of those holiday treats that people make once and then never stop making. It is rich, crunchy, sweet, and salty all at the same time, with almost no effort involved. The slow cooker gently melts layers of chocolate and candy coating while the peanuts add the perfect crunch. Once stirred together and scooped into clusters, the mixture sets into irresistible bite-sized candies that are perfect for gifting, parties, or simply keeping a jar on the kitchen counter during the festive season. Despite the playful name, there is nothing complicated about this recipe. It requires no baking, no candy thermometer, and very little cleanup. The result is a glossy, chocolate-coated peanut cluster that tastes like it came straight from a specialty candy shop but is made right at home with pantry staples.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1½–2 hours (slow cooker)
Cooling Time: 45–60 minutes
Total Time: About 3 hours
Servings: 40–50 clusters
Ingredients
Dry-Roasted Peanuts: 3 cups total (1½ cups salted + 1½ cups unsalted)
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: 1 cup
Milk Chocolate Chips: 1 cup
White Almond Bark or Vanilla Candy Coating: 24 oz (about 4 cups chopped)
Peanut Butter Chips (Optional): 1 cup
Instructions
Lightly grease the inside of a 4–6 quart slow cooker or line it with a slow-cooker liner for easier cleanup.
Pour the salted and unsalted peanuts evenly across the bottom of the crockpot.
Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips on top of the peanuts.
Layer the milk chocolate chips over the semi-sweet chips.
Break or chop the white almond bark into chunks and place it on top as the final layer.
Sprinkle peanut butter chips over the top if using. Do not stir yet.
Cover and cook on LOW for 1½ to 2 hours. Avoid opening the lid too often to keep the heat steady.
Once the chocolate looks melted and glossy, gently stir everything together until smooth and fully combined.
Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the sheets to form clusters.
Let the clusters cool at room temperature or refrigerate for 30–45 minutes until firm and set.
Tips
Always cook on low heat. High heat can scorch chocolate.
Layer ingredients instead of mixing at the start to prevent burning.
Use a silicone spatula for smooth stirring.
If chocolate is not fully melted after 2 hours, stir and continue in 10-minute intervals.
Add a pinch of sea salt on top before setting for extra contrast.
Work quickly when scooping so the mixture does not harden.
Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized clusters.
Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Keep away from warm areas or direct sunlight.
Double the batch for gifting, as these disappear fast.
Variations
Pretzel Crunch: Add 1 cup broken mini pretzels.
Holiday Sprinkles: Sprinkle red and green sprinkles on top before setting.
Almond Swap: Replace half the peanuts with roasted almonds.
Spiced Chocolate: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg.
Dark Chocolate: Substitute milk chocolate with dark chocolate chips.
Toffee Bits: Stir in ½ cup toffee pieces at the end.
Coconut Twist: Add ½ cup toasted shredded coconut.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle melted caramel over clusters after setting.
Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seeds and pretzels instead of peanuts.
White Chocolate Only: Skip dark and milk chocolate for a vanilla version.
Q & A
Why is it called Christmas Crack?
Because it is extremely addictive and popular during the holidays.
Can I use only one type of chocolate?
Yes, but mixing chocolates gives better depth of flavor.
Can I make this without a crockpot?
Yes, use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals.
How long do they last?
Up to 2 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature.
What if my chocolate seizes?
Add 1 teaspoon coconut oil and stir gently.
Can I add marshmallows?
Yes, mini marshmallows can be stirred in at the end.
Are they good for gifting?
Excellent. Package in tins or cellophane bags.
Do I need candy thermometers?
No, the slow cooker keeps the temperature gentle.
Can I use raw peanuts?
Dry-roasted peanuts are recommended for flavor and crunch.
Nutrition
(Approx. per Cluster)
Calories: 140
Protein: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fat: 8 g
Sugar: 11 g
Sodium: 60 mg
Conclusion
Crockpot Christmas Crack is a simple, no-bake treat that combines creamy chocolate with crunchy peanuts for a sweet and salty candy everyone loves. Its ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy holiday schedules, while the flavor and texture make it feel special enough for gifting and celebrations. With endless variations and minimal effort, this slow-cooker candy quickly becomes a seasonal tradition. Whether you make it for family gatherings, office parties, or homemade gift boxes, these chocolate peanut clusters deliver festive joy and rich indulgence in every bite.