If you’re on the hunt for a treat that combines sweet, salty, and festive all in one bowl, I have just the delight for you: the White Chocolate Pretzel Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe. This irresistible mix perfectly balances crunchy pretzels, creamy white chocolate, savory peanuts, and colorful holiday M&Ms, making it the ultimate candy to share during the season. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday party or just craving a cozy, homemade snack, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser and surprisingly simple to pull together in your crockpot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and essential, each bringing its own magic to the dish. The mix of salty peanuts and pretzels contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the white chocolate and almond bark, while holiday M&Ms and sprinkles add fun pops of color and crunch.
- 24 ounces almond bark: Provides a smooth and creamy base for the candy with a lovely white chocolate flavor.
- 2 cups (11 oz bag) white chocolate chips: Adds rich sweetness and helps bind everything together.
- 16 ounces dry roasted peanuts (salted): Lends a savory crunch that cuts through the sweetness.
- 16 ounces dry roasted peanuts (unsalted): Balances the salted nuts for a perfectly seasoned bite.
- 3 ½ cups mini pretzel twists: Offers a crunchy, salty texture that’s essential to the candy’s appeal.
- 1 ½ cups holiday M&Ms: Brings festive color and an extra chocolatey pop.
- Holiday sprinkles (optional): Adds a whimsical touch for that extra festive flair.
How to Make White Chocolate Pretzel Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot
Start by lining your crockpot with parchment paper or a silicone liner for easy cleanup. This step ensures your candy won’t stick and will help you lift it out smoothly when it’s ready. Set your crockpot to low heat to gently melt the almond bark and white chocolate chips without burning them.
Step 2: Melt the Almond Bark and White Chocolate
Pour the almond bark and white chocolate chips into the warmed crockpot. Stir every 10-15 minutes to help the melting process along and combine them into a luscious, creamy base. Patience here is key to avoid scorching, and stirring keeps everything silky smooth.
Step 3: Mix in Peanuts and Pretzels
Once your white chocolate mixture is melted, gently fold in both the salted and unsalted peanuts along with the mini pretzel twists. The combined crunch of these ingredients makes each bite delightfully textured and flavorful.
Step 4: Add Holiday M&Ms and Sprinkles
Save your M&Ms and any holiday sprinkles until the mixture has cooled slightly but is still easily stirrable. Adding them now keeps their shape intact and ensures that their vibrant colors really stand out in your finished candy.
Step 5: Transfer and Chill
Pour the mixture into a lined baking dish or a rimmed sheet pan. Spread evenly and sprinkle extra M&Ms or sprinkles on top if you like. Pop it into the refrigerator for about an hour, or until completely set and firm enough to break into pieces.
How to Serve White Chocolate Pretzel Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe
Garnishes
Serve with extra holiday sprinkles or a light dusting of powdered sugar to give your candy a festive and eye-catching finish. The colorful M&Ms already add charm, but a sprinkle or two will make it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This candy pairs beautifully with a hot cup of cocoa, coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. If you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, consider offering it alongside other classic cookies and desserts for a varied and festive spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or parties, break the candy into bite-sized clusters and place them in clear cellophane bags tied with holiday ribbons. You can also layer the candy pieces in decorative tins or mason jars to create a charming homemade gift that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover candy in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Stored properly, it will stay crunchy and fresh for up to two weeks, making it a perfect treat to enjoy throughout the holiday season.
Freezing
The White Chocolate Pretzel Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled candy well in plastic wrap and foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. When properly stored, it can last for up to three months.
Reheating
If you want to soften the candy a bit before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid direct heating, as this can melt the white chocolate and alter the texture you love.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or almonds would all be delicious substitutes. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will shift slightly, but it’ll still be fantastic.
Is it necessary to use a crockpot for this recipe?
The crockpot makes melting the chocolate super easy and hands-off, but you can also melt the almond bark and white chocolate using a double boiler or microwave on low power with careful stirring.
Can I make this candy vegan or dairy-free?
You can try using dairy-free white chocolate chips and vegan-friendly almond bark. Be sure to check the labels for any hidden dairy ingredients, and enjoy a plant-based version of this festive treat.
How long does it take to set completely?
Usually about an hour in the refrigerator is enough for the candy to harden and become easy to break into pieces. You can let it chill longer if you want firmer clusters.
What are some fun ways to customize this candy?
Feel free to add different mix-ins like dried cranberries, crushed peppermint candies, or even drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for an extra layer of decadence.
Final Thoughts
Making the White Chocolate Pretzel Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe brings so much joy not only in the eating but in the process too. It’s a fantastic way to bring festive cheer to your kitchen and create a sweet and salty delight that everyone will love. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easily this recipe can become your new holiday favorite!
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White Chocolate Pretzel Crockpot Christmas Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 37 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kosher
Description
Delight in this festive White Chocolate Pretzel Crockpot Christmas Candy, a perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors. Featuring creamy white chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and roasted peanuts, this easy-to-make holiday treat is prepared using a crockpot for smooth melting and effortless mixing. Ideal for holiday parties and gift-giving, this recipe yields 37 servings of irresistible seasonal candy.
Ingredients
Chocolate
- 24 ounces almond bark
- 2 cups (11 oz bag) white chocolate chips
Nuts and Salty Mix-ins
- 16 ounces dry roasted peanuts (salted)
- 16 ounces dry roasted peanuts (unsalted)
Other Mix-ins
- 3 ½ cups mini pretzel twists (some whole, some broken)
- 1 ½ cups holiday M&Ms
- Holiday sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Line your crockpot with parchment paper or use a non-stick crockpot insert to make removal easier after the candy sets.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place almond bark and white chocolate chips into the crockpot. Set the crockpot on low heat and stir occasionally for about 30-40 minutes, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Add Peanuts and Pretzels: Once the chocolate is melted, add the salted and unsalted dry roasted peanuts along with 3 ½ cups of mini pretzel twists. Stir gently to evenly coat the nuts and pretzels in the melted white chocolate mixture.
- Add M&Ms and Mix-ins: Add 1 ½ cups of holiday M&Ms and mix gently to combine all ingredients, making sure not to crush the candies.
- Spread the Mixture: Pour the mixture into a parchment-lined baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle holiday sprinkles on top if desired for extra festive flair.
- Cool and Set: Let the mixture cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until fully set and firm.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, remove from the pan and parchment paper, cut into squares or desired shapes, and serve or package for gifting.
Notes
- Use parchment paper for easy removal of the candy from the crockpot and baking pan.
- If almond bark is unavailable, you can substitute with white chocolate melting wafers or candy melts.
- Ensure the crockpot is on low heat to prevent burning the chocolate.
- Customize mix-ins by adding other holiday candies like crushed candy canes or dried cranberries.
- Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate for longer freshness.
