Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
- Set Up the Crockpot: Spray the inside of your Crockpot (slow cooker) with non-stick cooking spray or line it with a slow cooker liner to prevent the candy from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
- Layer the Ingredients: In the Crockpot, add the salted peanuts, unsalted peanuts (if using), chocolate almond bark (or white chocolate chips), milk chocolate chips, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Add the peanut butter and caramel bits (if using) as well.
- Mix: Stir gently to combine the ingredients slightly. Don’t worry about melting the ingredients just yet; we’ll do that in the next step.
Step 3: Melt the Candy Mixture
- Set the Crockpot to Low: Place the lid on the Crockpot and set it to low. Let it cook for about 1-2 hours, stirring every 20-30 minutes to help the chocolates melt evenly. Be sure to check the consistency, as you don’t want to burn the chocolate. If the candy begins to melt too quickly or stick to the sides, reduce the heat to the “keep warm” setting.
Step 4: Stir and Combine
- Stir Until Smooth: Once everything has melted and the mixture is smooth, give it one final stir to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 5: Form the Candy Clusters
- Spoon the Candy: Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the melted mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or wax paper. You can make small clusters, or larger ones depending on your preference.
- Let Set: Allow the candy clusters to cool and harden at room temperature, or place them in the refrigerator to speed up the process. The candy should set in about 1-2 hours.
Step 6: Store and Serve
- Store: Once the Crockpot candy has fully cooled and hardened, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
- Serve: Serve the Crockpot candy at parties, as a gift, or just enjoy them as a sweet treat whenever you’re craving something chocolatey and nutty!
Tips for Success:
- Nuts: Feel free to use any variety of nuts you like! You can also add more variety, such as crushed pretzels, to add crunch.
- Chocolate Types: You can switch out the chocolate types based on your preference. Dark chocolate can be substituted for semi-sweet chocolate for a richer flavor, or you can add a combination of milk and white chocolate for a sweeter result.
- Add-Ins: You can add dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a sweet and tart addition or sprinkle in some sea salt for a touch of saltiness to balance the sweetness.
Enjoy your Crockpot Candy—a rich, decadent treat that’s easy to make and always a hit with friends and family!