Crockpot Christmas Crack

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Every December, I find myself reaching for recipes that check three key boxes: easy, festive, and irresistibly delicious. Crockpot Christmas Crack does exactly that. It’s one of those holiday treats you make once—and suddenly everyone asks for it again year after year. The combination of creamy, rich chocolate and the satisfying crunch of peanuts makes it the kind of indulgence you don’t want to share—but inevitably end up gifting anyway.

What makes this sweet treat truly magical is the simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a trusty slow cooker, you’re well on your way to creating a batch of chocolatey bliss. I love how the sprinkles add that cheerful pop of holiday color, making it just as pretty as it is tasty. Whether it’s for a cookie exchange, a last-minute dessert, or a thoughtful edible gift, Crockpot Christmas Crack always delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Christmas Crack

• It only takes a few minutes to prep—your slow cooker does most of the work.
• You don’t need any fancy baking skills or equipment.
• It makes a large batch perfect for gifting or serving at parties.
• The combination of sweet, salty, crunchy, and creamy is simply addictive.
• It’s endlessly customizable with different toppings or mix-ins.

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What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use?

While the recipe is flexible, I recommend using a mix of chocolate flavors for depth. Typically, I go for semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate, and white almond bark. The white almond bark helps everything bind together and gives that classic smooth finish. If you like a richer, darker flavor, feel free to swap in some dark chocolate chips. Avoid using high-end chocolate bars that don’t melt smoothly in a slow cooker.

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Options for Substitutions

• Peanuts: If allergies are a concern or you’re just not a fan, swap them for pretzels, cashews, almonds, or even crushed toffee.
• Almond Bark: If you can’t find it, white candy melts or white chocolate chips (with a bit of coconut oil) can work in a pinch.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix and match to suit your taste—dark, milk, butterscotch, or peanut butter chips all blend in beautifully.
• Sprinkles: Feel free to use any seasonal or themed sprinkles. Crushed peppermint or mini M&Ms are fun too.

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Ingredients for this Crockpot Christmas Crack

• Salted Peanuts: These form the crunchy, salty base that balances the sweetness of the chocolate perfectly.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Adds depth of flavor and balances the overall sweetness.
• Milk Chocolate Chips: Lends a creamy, rich chocolate layer that melts beautifully.
• White Almond Bark: Acts as a smooth binder for all the ingredients and gives that signature glossy finish.
• Peanut Butter Chips (Optional): For an extra layer of nutty flavor and richness.
• Holiday Sprinkles: Adds a festive touch and a delightful crunch with color.

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Step 1: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot

Start by layering your ingredients in a 5 to 6-quart slow cooker. First, pour in the salted peanuts as the bottom layer. On top of that, add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, then the milk chocolate chips, followed by the peanut butter chips if using. Finally, place the broken pieces of white almond bark evenly on top. Do not stir!

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Step 2: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to LOW. Let everything cook for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. Check occasionally after the 1-hour mark to avoid burning. The goal is to melt everything slowly without stirring.

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Step 3: Stir Everything Together

Once the chocolate and almond bark are fully melted, use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently stir everything together until smooth and the peanuts are evenly coated. Make sure you get all the melted chocolate from the sides and bottom.

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Step 4: Scoop onto Parchment Paper

Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper. Work quickly as the mixture starts to set once removed from heat.

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Step 5: Add Sprinkles

Immediately top each cluster with holiday sprinkles while the chocolate is still warm and sticky. This ensures the decorations adhere perfectly and give a festive look.

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Step 6: Let It Set

Allow the chocolate clusters to cool and harden at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours. If you’re in a hurry, place the tray in the refrigerator for quicker setting.

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Step 7: Store or Gift

Once completely set, store the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature. These make perfect holiday gifts when packed into festive tins or treat bags.

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How Long to Prepare the Crockpot Christmas Crack

Prep Time: The preparation is blissfully simple and quick. It takes about 10–15 minutes to gather your ingredients and layer them into the slow cooker. Since there’s no chopping or pre-cooking involved, it’s beginner-friendly and low effort.

Cook Time: Once everything is in the crockpot, the cooking takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes on LOW. After stirring, you’ll need another 1 to 2 hours for the clusters to cool and harden, depending on whether you set them at room temperature or in the fridge.

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Tips for Perfect Crockpot Christmas Crack

• Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup—this recipe gets very sticky.
• Don’t stir the mixture while it’s melting; let the layers sit undisturbed until fully softened.
• High-quality chocolate chips will give the best melt and flavor.
• Use a cookie scoop for even, neat portions.
• Let the chocolate fully set before storing or stacking to prevent smudging.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking: If you leave it too long, the chocolate can scorch. Check at the 1-hour mark.
• Stirring too early: This can cause uneven melting and clumping.
• Using the wrong chocolate: Chocolate bars may not melt smoothly like chips or almond bark.
• Skipping the sprinkles too late: Sprinkles won’t stick once the chocolate sets.
• Stacking before cooled: This causes smearing and breakage—be patient!

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What to Serve With Crockpot Christmas Crack?

1. Hot Chocolate

A warm mug of cocoa is the ultimate pairing with these sweet, crunchy bites.

2. Cheese and Cracker Platter

Add a savory contrast to balance the sweetness when serving at a holiday party.

3. Coffee or Espresso

These clusters go wonderfully with bold coffee flavors.

4. Ice Cream

Crumble over vanilla or peppermint ice cream for a festive dessert.

5. Fresh Berries

Add a refreshing bite with tart fruits like raspberries or strawberries.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store Crockpot Christmas Crack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat.

Refrigerator: If your home runs warm, place them in the fridge to avoid melting. They can stay fresh for up to 3 weeks this way.

Freezer: These clusters freeze well! Store them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Note: Based on one piece out of approximately 60 clusters)

• Calories: ~120 kcal
• Fat: ~7g
• Saturated Fat: ~3g
• Sugar: ~10g
• Carbohydrates: ~12g
• Protein: ~2g
• Sodium: ~30mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without peanuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute with pretzels, cashews, or a nut-free granola blend.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your crockpot is large enough. Stir carefully to avoid spills.

Do I need to use almond bark?

It’s recommended because it helps everything bind and set well, but white candy melts or white chocolate chips with a bit of coconut oil can substitute.

How long does it take to harden?

At room temperature, about 1–2 hours. In the fridge, closer to 30–45 minutes.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Definitely! Once the mixture is ready for scooping and decorating, it becomes a fun and safe activity for kids.

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Conclusion

Crockpot Christmas Crack is the no-fuss holiday treat that turns simple ingredients into something spectacular. It’s perfect for busy December days when you want to create something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re gifting, snacking, or hosting, this sweet and salty chocolate delight never fails to impress. Once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your holiday tradition just like it has in mine.

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