Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy)

One of the simplest and most delightful treats to whip up in your kitchen is Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy). Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in, this recipe combines chocolate with crunchy peanuts and fluffy vegan marshmallows. It’s a no-fuss dessert that requires minimal effort and equipment—ideal for any occasion. With its rich flavors and textures, these clusters are sure to impress friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No need for complicated techniques or candy thermometers. Just throw everything in your slow cooker!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of semisweet and dark chocolates creates a deliciously decadent treat.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite nuts or add sprinkles for an extra pop of color!
• Large Batch: This recipe yields around 60 candies, making it great for sharing (or not!).
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party, holiday, or movie night, these clusters are always a hit.

Tools and Preparation

Getting ready to make these Rocky Road Peanut Clusters is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need to have on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cookie scoop or large spoons
• Wax paper
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Makes melting chocolate effortless without constant watching. Ideal for the busy cook!
• Cookie Scoop: Ensures uniform candy sizes, perfect for even distribution when serving.
• Wax Paper: Prevents sticking, making it easy to remove the candy once set.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy), gather the following ingredients:

For the Candy Base

• 1 lb lightly salted dry roasted peanuts (about 4 cups)
• 2 lbs vanilla almond bark (broken into pieces)
• 12 oz semisweet chocolate chips
• 4 oz dark chocolate bar broken into pieces (I like to use Ghirardelli 60%)

For the Marshmallow Layer

• 10 oz mini vegan marshmallows (about 4-5 cups)
• Sprinkles (optional)

How to Make Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy)

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Layer peanuts evenly into the bottom of your crockpot. Then add the almond bark, semisweet chocolate chips, and dark chocolate on top.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for one hour. After an hour, remove the lid and stir well. If all of the chocolate isn’t completely melted, continue to cook uncovered on low heat while stirring occasionally for another 15-30 minutes until fully melted.

Step 3: Add Vegan Marshmallows

Turn off the heat and let it cool for about five minutes. Gently add mini vegan marshmallows to the melted chocolate mixture. Stir briefly until they are coated without overmixing; you want them to maintain their shape.

Step 4: Scoop and Set

Use a cookie scoop (about 1 ½ tablespoons) to scoop heaping amounts onto wax paper-lined cookie sheets. Sprinkle with sprinkles if desired, then allow them to set for about 30-60 minutes before enjoying.

Step 5: Store Properly

Once set, store your Rocky Road Peanut Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for maximum freshness!

How to Serve Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy)

Rocky Road Peanut Clusters are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious candy.

For Parties

• Create a dessert table featuring these clusters alongside other sweet treats for visually appealing options.

As Party Favors

• Package individual clusters in clear bags tied with colorful ribbons for easy-to-give gifts that guests will love.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm clusters over scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent sundae experience.

On Top of Brownies

• Crumble pieces of the clusters over freshly baked brownies for an added crunch and flavor explosion.

With a Hot Beverage

• Pair with hot cocoa or coffee to create a comforting snack perfect for chilly days.

How to Perfect Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy)

To ensure your Rocky Road Peanut Clusters turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips for success.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your nuts and chocolate are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Stir Gently: When combining the marshmallows with chocolate, stir gently to maintain their shape.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of chocolate chips based on your preferred level of sweetness.
• Layer Properly: Layer peanuts evenly in the crockpot to ensure even melting and mixing of ingredients.
• Cool Completely: Allow clusters to cool completely before storing them to maintain their texture.

Best Side Dishes for Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy)

While Rocky Road Peanut Clusters are delicious on their own, they can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some tasty options that pair well with this sweet treat.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the candy.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides a savory contrast to the sweet flavors of the clusters.
3. Popcorn: Lightly salted popcorn offers a crunchy counterpart that enhances your snacking experience.
4. Vegetable Crudités: Crisp veggies served with hummus or dip add a healthy touch alongside the rich candies.
5. Nut Mix: An assortment of nuts can echo the peanut flavor while providing additional crunch.
6. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These add a salty-sweet element that complements the candy’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy), it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Not Layering Ingredients Properly: Ensure that you layer the peanuts first, followed by the chocolate and almond bark. This helps achieve even melting and prevents burning.

• Overcooking the Chocolate: Cooking for too long can lead to burnt chocolate. Keep an eye on your mixture and stir occasionally after the first hour.

• Stirring Too Much After Adding Marshmallows: Stir gently after adding vegan marshmallows to maintain their shape. Over-stirring can lead to melted marshmallows rather than fluffy clusters.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the mixture to cool slightly before scooping helps prevent the marshmallows from melting completely, giving you the desired texture.

• Using Incorrect Storage Containers: Store your Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy) in airtight containers to keep them fresh longer. Avoid using non-airtight options which can lead to stale candy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 1-2 weeks for optimal freshness.

Freezing Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy)

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy)

• Oven: Preheat to 200°F and warm candy on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10 seconds until just warm; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat while stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy) that may help clarify any doubts you might have.

How do I make Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy) vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly by using vegan marshmallows and plant-based gelling agents. Make sure all your ingredients are labeled as vegan.

Can I substitute the nuts in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to use different types of nuts like almonds or cashews based on your preference. Just ensure they are dry roasted and lightly salted.

How long does it take to prepare Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy)?

The total time includes about 10 minutes of prep and 60 minutes of cooking, making it a quick and easy treat!

What can I use instead of almond bark?

If you can’t find almond bark, you can use high-quality white chocolate as a substitute. Just melt it carefully as directed in the recipe.

Final Thoughts

Rocky Road Peanut Clusters (Crockpot Candy) are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with crunchy peanuts and fluffy marshmallows. This easy recipe is perfect for gatherings or as a sweet snack at home. Customize with your favorite nuts or toppings like sprinkles for added flair. Give it a try, and enjoy this versatile candy!