Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy is an irresistible holiday dessert that combines the crunch of peanuts and pretzels with the chewy sweetness of raisins, all enveloped in creamy white chocolate. This easy-to-make candy is a crowd-pleaser that captures the magic of the season with every bite. Whether you’re whipping up holiday gifts, stocking your cookie jar, or sharing at a festive gathering, this no-fuss recipe will quickly become a seasonal favorite.
I remember making these with my grandmother every December. She’d let me stir the gooey chocolate mixture while the whole kitchen filled with the rich, sweet aroma of melting white chocolate. The best part? Sneaking a taste of the warm mixture before it set. It’s more than just candy—it’s a holiday memory wrapped in sweetness.
Why Our Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy Is the Best
Our Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy is the ultimate combination of flavors and textures:
- Perfect Sweet-Salty Balance: The creamy white chocolate pairs beautifully with the salty peanuts and pretzels.
- No-Bake Simplicity: Easy preparation in a crockpot with minimal cleanup.
- Versatile and Festive: Add sprinkles for extra holiday cheer or customize the mix-ins.
Ingredients Notes for Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy
Each ingredient in our Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy plays a unique role in creating its festive flavors:
- White Chocolate Candy Coating: Melts smoothly and sets firm for a perfect candy base.
- White Chocolate Chips: Adds extra creaminess and sweetness.
- Peanuts: Provides a salty, crunchy contrast. Choose salted or unsalted based on your preference.
- Pretzel Twists: Break into small pieces for a satisfying crunch in every bite.
- Raisins: Adds a chewy sweetness that complements the other ingredients.
Pro Tip: You can swap out the raisins for dried cranberries or cherries for a festive twist.
Kitchen Equipment Needed for Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Silicone spatula or spoon for stirring
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
How to Make Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy
1. Melt the Chocolate
Place the white chocolate candy coating and white chocolate chips in your crockpot. Heat on low for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until fully melted and smooth.
2. Mix the Ingredients
Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the peanuts, broken pretzels, and raisins. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece is well coated.
3. Form the Candy
Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. For extra holiday flair, top with sprinkles if desired.
4. Let It Set
Allow the candies to cool and set completely at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.
How to Store Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy
To keep your Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy fresh and delicious:
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- In the Refrigerator: Extend shelf life to about 1 month, but allow candies to come to room temperature before serving to maintain their texture.
- In the Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy Variations
Here are a few ways to make this recipe your own:
- Add Nuts: Include almonds, cashews, or pecans for extra crunch.
- Festive Colors: Stir in red and green M&Ms or colored sprinkles for a more festive look.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once the candies are set, drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate on top for added richness.
What to Serve with Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy
Pair this treat with:
- Hot Apple Cider: The warmth and spice of cider complement the candy’s sweet and salty notes.
- Eggnog: A creamy, festive drink that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate.
- Cheesecake: Add a piece of candy as a garnish to your holiday cheesecake for a fun twist.
Top Tips for Perfect Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy
- Use Low Heat: High heat can scorch the chocolate, so be patient and keep the setting low.
- Stir Frequently: This ensures the chocolate melts evenly and prevents clumping.
- Prep Your Mix-Ins: Break the pretzels and measure the peanuts and raisins ahead of time for a smoother process.
- Work Quickly: Once the mixture is ready, spoon it onto the baking sheet promptly before the chocolate starts to set.
- Customize for the Occasion: Use sprinkles, candy, or even edible glitter to match your holiday theme.
Helpful Notes
- Sticky Mixture: If the chocolate begins to cool too quickly, return it to the crockpot on low for a few minutes.
- Batch Size: This recipe makes about 36 candies but can be halved or doubled to suit your needs.
- Gift Idea: Package these candies in festive cellophane bags or tins for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ree Drummond: “Always use a high-quality chocolate for the best flavor in candy recipes.”
- Nigella Lawson: “Adding a touch of salt to sweet recipes enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.”
- Alton Brown: “Layer your ingredients in the crockpot for even melting and fewer hot spots.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use milk or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, any chocolate will work, but white chocolate highlights the festive look and complements the salty ingredients best.
2. Can I make this candy nut-free?
Certainly! Replace the peanuts with pretzel pieces or additional dried fruit.
3. How do I keep the chocolate from hardening too quickly?
Work in small batches, and keep the crockpot on the “warm” setting while spooning out the mixture.
4. Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Try mini marshmallows, toffee bits, or coconut flakes for added variety.
5. How long does it take to set?
The candy sets in about 1 hour at room temperature. Refrigeration will speed up the process.
More Delicious Holiday Recipes
- Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars
- Christmas Italian Cheese Log
- Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)
- Christmas Funnel Cake Bites
- Easy Christmas Butter Cookies
- Cranberry White Chocolate Magic Bars
Make this Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy part of your holiday traditions and bring smiles to everyone around the table. Happy holidays! 🎄
Salty Sweet Crockpot Christmas Candy
Ingredients
- – 2 cups salted peanuts
- – 2 cups unsalted peanuts
- – 12 oz semisweet chocolate chips
- – 12 oz white chocolate chips
- – 1 lb almond bark chopped
- – Festive sprinkles optional
Instructions
- Add the salted peanuts and unsalted peanuts to the bottom of your crockpot.
- Layer the semisweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and almond bark on top of the peanuts. Do not stir.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 1 hour. Check occasionally to ensure the chocolate is melting evenly.
- Once the chocolate is melted, stir everything together until fully combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the candy mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Add festive sprinkles on top if desired. Let the candies cool and harden at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Store in an airtight container and enjoy!
Notes
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanuts with pretzel pieces or crushed graham crackers.
- These candies make excellent gifts; wrap them in festive bags or tins.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.