These crockpot chocolate caramel candies are the kind of treat you make once, then suddenly everyone is asking for the recipe.
They’re gooey, chocolatey, chewy, and so simple to throw together.
Just dump, melt, stir, and scoop — no oven needed, no fuss at all.
This is a perfect treat for gifting, snacking, or just keeping around for when your sweet tooth kicks in.
Why I Love This Recipe
This one brings back memories. A neighbor dropped off a batch of these candies during the holidays, and I was hooked from the first bite. I couldn’t believe they were made in a crockpot. They’ve been on repeat ever since.
- No baking, no stress — just melt and mix
- Perfect combo of creamy caramel and rich chocolate
- Easy to portion and store
- Great for homemade gifts
What You’ll Need
- 16 oz roasted salted peanuts
- 16 oz unsalted dry roasted peanuts
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 12 oz milk chocolate chips
- 2 (11 oz) bags caramel bits
- 1 (24 oz) block vanilla almond bark, chopped
Pro Tips
- Stir once every hour to prevent anything from burning
- Use crockpot liners for easy cleanup
- Scoop the candy while warm — it sets quickly
- Use a cookie scoop for even portions
- Let cool completely before storing
Tools Needed
- Crockpot (6-quart or larger)
- Measuring cups
- Mixing spoon
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Parchment paper
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap peanuts for pecans or cashews
- Use dark chocolate instead of milk for a richer flavor
- Add sea salt flakes on top before cooling
- Stir in mini marshmallows at the end for texture
Make Ahead Tips
- You can make the candies up to 1 week in advance
- Store in an airtight container at room temp or fridge
- They freeze well for up to 3 months — just thaw before serving
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Layer the peanuts
Pour 16 oz salted roasted peanuts and 16 oz dry roasted peanuts into the bottom of your crockpot. Spread them into an even layer.
Step 2: Add the chocolate chips
Add 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips and 12 oz milk chocolate chips right on top of the peanuts, spreading them out without stirring.
Step 3: Add caramel bits and almond bark
Sprinkle in 2 (11 oz) bags of caramel bits, then place 24 oz chopped vanilla almond bark over everything. Don’t stir — just layer.
Step 4: Cook on low
Cover and cook on LOW for 2 hours. Do not stir during this time. After 2 hours, uncover and gently stir everything together until smooth and fully combined.
Step 5: Scoop the candy
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to scoop the warm mixture onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Let cool completely.
Step 6: Let cool and serve
Let the candies cool for at least 1 hour or until fully set. Serve on a round white plate or store for later.
Leftovers & Storage
- Keep in an airtight container at room temp for up to 1 week
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks
- Freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months — thaw at room temp
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Layering the ingredients lets the caramel and chocolates melt slowly and evenly. The peanuts on the bottom stop burning and add crunch. Almond bark helps everything set with a smooth finish that doesn’t get chalky or sticky.
Common Mistakes
- Stirring too soon — let the layers melt slowly first
- Using too high heat — always keep it on LOW
- Not chopping the almond bark — it melts more evenly when in chunks
- Not using parchment — candies stick to surfaces without it
What to Serve With
- A glass of cold milk
- Hot coffee or hot chocolate
- Crushed over ice cream
- On a cookie tray for parties
FAQ
Can I make this without a crockpot?
You can use a double boiler on the stove, but it needs constant attention.
Can I skip the almond bark?
Nope! It helps the candies set properly and stay firm.
Do I need to stir during cooking?
Not until the 2-hour mark — trust the process.
What if I don’t have caramel bits?
Use unwrapped soft caramels cut into small pieces.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, just double-check that your chocolate and caramel are labeled gluten-free.
Makes: About 60 candies
Total Cook Time: 2 hours + 1 hour to cool
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Macros (Per Candy – Approximate)
- Calories: 95
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbs: 10g
- Sugar: 7g
Give this one a try and tell me how it went in the comments! I’d love to hear if you made any fun swaps or added your own twist.
