1. Combine in the Slow Cooker
Add chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter to a 4–6 quart slow cooker.
Do not stir—just layer the ingredients.
2. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 1 hour.
After 1 hour, stir gently until smooth and glossy.
Stir in vanilla, sea salt, and nuts (if using).
3. Spread & Set
Line a large rimmed baking sheet (or two 9x13 pans) with parchment paper.
Pour the warm mixture onto the parchment and spread evenly with a spatula.
Let cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours, or speed it up in the fridge for 30–45 minutes.
4. Break & Package
Once firm, break into rustic shards (the “crack” in Christmas Crack!).
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks—or package in cellophane bags for gifts!
Tips for Candy Perfection
- Don’t lift the lid while cooking—steam keeps the mixture moist.
- Use a rubber spatula to scrape every bit of that glossy candy.
- Press nuts gently into the surface before it sets for extra crunch.
- Double the salt if using unsalted nuts—salt is key to balancing sweetness.
- Make it ahead: This candy tastes even better on day 2!
Delicious Variations
- Mint Chocolate: Add 1 tsp peppermint extract + green sprinkles
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of PB into the mixture and marble gently
- White Chocolate Cranberry: Use white chocolate chips + dried cranberries
- Spicy Holiday: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper for a warm kick
- Nut-Free: Skip nuts and add 1 cup crispy rice cereal or toffee bits
Gifting & Serving Ideas
- Holiday tins: Layer in cupcake liners with red ribbon
- Teacher gifts: Package 4–5 pieces in a clear cellophane bag
- Cookie swap star: Break into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing
- Elegant dessert: Serve with peppermint ice cream or espresso
- Stocking stuffer: Wrap individual shards in festive foil
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use milk chocolate chips?
A: Yes—but semi-sweet has better structure. Avoid chocolate chips labeled “baking chips”—they contain stabilizers that don’t melt smoothly.
Q: Why is my candy grainy?
A: Likely from overheating or low-quality chocolate. Stick to LOW heat and good chocolate.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes! Freeze in a single layer, then store in a bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp.
Q: Can I skip the nuts?
A: Absolutely! The candy is still rich and addictive without them.
Final Thoughts: Holiday Joy, Simplified
Crockpot Christmas Crack isn’t just candy—it’s a celebration of ease, generosity, and sweet-tooth satisfaction. With its buttery toffee base, velvety chocolate, and salty crunch, it’s the kind of treat that sparks joy, earns recipe requests, and makes holiday gifting feel effortless.
So grab that slow cooker, melt those chips, and make a batch that’ll have everyone asking, “You made this at home?!”
Made this and couldn’t stop eating it? I’d love to hear your twist—did you go mint? Add cranberries? Share your crack success in the comments below—or tag me on social. And if you know someone drowning in holiday stress, send them this recipe. You’ll be their new favorite person! 🎄✨🍫
