Easy Spring Crockpot Candy Recipe
This spring crockpot candy combines crunchy peanuts, sweet vanilla almond bark, marshmallows, and colorful pastel M&Ms to create irresistible candy clusters perfect for Easter baskets and spring celebrations.
Servings: 50
Calories: 215kcal
Ingredients
- 16 ounce jar roasted salted peanuts
- 16 ounce jar honey roasted peanuts
- 2 24 oz vanilla almond bark
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup pastel M&Ms plus more for topping
- Bunny sprinkles mix for topping
Instructions
- Add both types of peanuts to your crockpot, spreading them in an even layer across the bottom.
- Break the vanilla almond bark into squares and place them on top of the peanuts. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for one hour, or until the almond bark is completely melted.
- Stir the mixture to combine the melted almond bark with the peanuts. If needed, continue cooking on low for additional 15-minute increments until fully melted and smooth.
- Turn off the slow cooker and allow the mixture to cool for 30-45 minutes at room temperature. This cooling period prevents the marshmallows and M&Ms from melting when added.
- While waiting, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for the candy clusters.
- Once the mixture has cooled but is still melted, gently fold in the pastel M&Ms and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
- Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, quickly portion the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Immediately top each cluster with a few extra M&Ms and bunny sprinkles before the candy begins to set.
- Allow the clusters to set at room temperature for about 1 hour or until completely hardened. To speed up the process, you can refrigerate them for 20-30 minutes.
Notes
- Temperature Control: Keep your crockpot on LOW setting only - high heat can scorch the almond bark. Every slow cooker heats differently, so check frequently during the first batch.
- Cooling Time: Don't skip the cooling period before adding M&Ms and marshmallows. If the mixture is too hot, they'll melt completely instead of maintaining their shape and color.
- Quick Action: Work quickly when scooping the clusters as the mixture will begin to set as it cools. Having everything prepared ahead of time helps this process go smoothly.
- Preventing Sticking: For easier cleanup, consider using a crockpot liner or spraying the inside lightly with cooking spray before adding ingredients.
- Even Portions: Using a cookie scoop creates uniform clusters that will set and cool at the same rate. Consistent sizing also makes for a more professional presentation.
Nutrition
Calories: 215kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 87mg | Potassium: 141mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 9IU | Vitamin C: 0.03mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 0.5mg