If you are searching for a delightful, crowd-pleasing treat to celebrate spring, look no further than this Easter Crockpot Candy Recipe. Imagine crunchy roasted peanuts enveloped in creamy white almond bark, speckled with cheerful pastel Easter M&Ms and fruit-flavored mini marshmallows, all combined in the convenience of your slow cooker. This candy is not only irresistibly sweet and colorful but also wonderfully easy to make, making it a perfect addition to your holiday festivities or any cozy gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly. Each ingredient brings its own magic: the smooth almond bark forms a luscious base, the roasted peanuts add satisfying crunch, and the pastel M&Ms along with mini marshmallows introduce bursts of color and fun flavors.
- White almond bark (2 24 oz. blocks): This melts smoothly and provides a sweet, creamy foundation for the candy.
- Roasted peanuts (24 oz.): They add a perfect crunchy texture and a savory contrast to the sweetness.
- Easter M&Ms (1 ½ cups, pastel colors): These bring festive pastel hues and a melty candy shell that complements the confection.
- Mini fruit-flavored marshmallows (1 ½ cups): Tiny bursts of fruity flavor and softness that balance the crunch.
- Easter sprinkles: For that extra joyful sparkle and festive finish on top of your candy bites.
How to Make Easter Crockpot Candy Recipe
Step 1: Melt and Combine the Almond Bark with Peanuts
Begin by placing the white almond bark and roasted peanuts directly into your slow cooker. Cover it and cook on low heat for about 2 to 3 hours. Make sure to stir the mixture frequently, ensuring that the almond bark melts evenly and coats the peanuts thoroughly. This slow, gentle heat brings out the best in both the candy base and the nuts, melding flavors beautifully without any fuss.
Step 2: Cool the Mixture to the Perfect Temperature
Once the almond bark is melted and smooth, turn off the crockpot and allow the chocolate mixture to cool to room temperature. It’s important to let it cool just enough so it doesn’t melt the M&Ms and mini marshmallows when you add them later. But don’t let it harden or set just yet—this is the delicate moment where patience leads to perfect candy texture!
Step 3: Gently Fold in M&Ms and Mini Marshmallows
Carefully stir the pastel Easter M&Ms and fruit-flavored mini marshmallows into the cooled chocolate and peanut mixture. Mix gently until just combined to avoid crushing or melting the marshmallows and candy shells. Then, using a tablespoon or small scoop, dollop spoonfuls onto parchment paper. For a cheerful finish, sprinkle more M&Ms and Easter sprinkles on top before allowing them to set and harden.
How to Serve Easter Crockpot Candy Recipe
Garnishes
You can elevate your Easter Crockpot Candy Recipe experience by adding extra pastel M&Ms or a sprinkle of colorful Easter-themed confetti sugar on top. These little touches add an eye-catching pop of color and make every piece feel special, almost too pretty to eat (but you definitely will want to!).
Side Dishes
This candy pairs wonderfully with light, spring-inspired beverages like chamomile tea, sparkling lemonade, or a creamy vanilla milkshake. The sweetness of the candy complements these drinks and creates a balanced bite after bite, refreshing the palate and keeping your taste buds happy.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing your Easter Crockpot Candy Recipe bites in festive mini paper cups or cellophane bags tied with pastel ribbons. Lay them out on a decorated platter or nestle them in a basket filled with shredded colored paper. Presenting your candy with a thoughtful touch is sure to impress guests and make the treat even more memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra candy, store the leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They keep nicely for up to two weeks. Make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and keep that perfect crunch intact.
Freezing
You can freeze this Easter Crockpot Candy for longer storage by wrapping pieces individually in wax paper and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When frozen, the candy can last up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving to enjoy optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheating is generally not necessary for this candy since it’s best enjoyed as a cool, crunchy treat. If you’d prefer a slightly softer bite, briefly warm a few pieces in your hands or leave them out at room temperature for a bit. Avoid microwave heating, which may melt the marshmallows or candy shells and affect texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute the peanuts with another nut?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out peanuts for almonds, cashews, or even pecans, depending on your preference or allergies. Just make sure they are roasted for that nutty depth and crunch.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker? Can I make this on the stove?
Yes, you can melt the white almond bark and peanuts in a large saucepan over low heat while stirring continuously. Just be extra careful not to scorch the chocolate by keeping the heat very low.
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of fruit-flavored ones?
Regular mini marshmallows will work just fine if you don’t have fruit-flavored ones on hand. They will still add softness and a hint of sweetness, just without the fruity taste.
How can I prevent the M&Ms from melting during preparation?
The key is to let the chocolate and peanut mixture cool enough before adding the M&Ms. If the mixture is too warm, the candy shells can melt. Patience is your best friend here.
Is this candy gluten-free?
Yes, this Easter Crockpot Candy Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free labeled M&Ms and sprinkles, which are typically available at most stores.
Final Thoughts
This Easter Crockpot Candy Recipe is a joyful and simple way to add sweetness and color to your celebrations or any sweet craving moment. Its effortless preparation and irresistibly fun flavors will make it a lasting favorite among family and friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe year after year!
Print
Easter Crockpot Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 50 candies
- Category: Candy
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This festive Easter Crockpot Candy combines creamy white almond bark, roasted peanuts, pastel Easter M&Ms, and fruity mini marshmallows to create a deliciously sweet and crunchy treat. Made easily in a slow cooker, it’s perfect for holiday celebrations or a fun snack to share with family and friends.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 24 oz. blocks white almond bark
- 24 oz roasted peanuts
Mix-Ins and Toppings
- 1 ½ cups Easter M&Ms (pastel colors)
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows (fruit-flavored)
- Easter sprinkles, for topping
Instructions
- Heat Almond Bark and Peanuts: Place the white almond bark and roasted peanuts into your slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, stirring frequently to ensure the almond bark melts evenly and the mixture combines smoothly without burning.
- Cool the Mixture: Once the almond bark is fully melted and the mixture is smooth, turn off the slow cooker. Allow the mixture to cool down to room temperature. It’s important that it cools enough so the mixture does not harden or remain too hot, as this will affect the texture of the M&Ms and marshmallows when added.
- Add M&Ms and Marshmallows: Gently stir the pastel Easter M&Ms and fruit-flavored mini marshmallows into the cooled almond bark and peanut mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to prevent melting the add-ins.
- Form and Decorate Candies: Using a tablespoon or small scoop, drop 1 to 1 ½ tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Top each candy with additional M&Ms and Easter sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
- Set and Serve: Allow the candies to set completely at room temperature until firm. Serve and enjoy your colorful, crunchy Easter treats!
Notes
- Stir frequently during cooking to prevent burning and promote even melting.
- Allow the mixture to cool adequately to avoid melting the M&Ms and marshmallows when added.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking during setting.
- Store candies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Can be refrigerated to speed up setting but bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
