Get ready to transform your kitchen into a festive paradise with these mouthwatering St. Patrick's Day Crockpot Candy Peanut Clusters that are so easy, even a leprechaun could make them! Imagine rich chocolate and butterscotch melting together with crunchy peanuts and pretzels, creating a treat so addictive, you'll want to hide them from your friends. This no-fuss recipe is perfect for busy home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal effort, and it's guaranteed to be the star of any St. Patrick's Day celebration!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 24 clusters
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanuts
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1 cup pretzel pieces
Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker by lightly greasing the interior with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Measure out the peanuts, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and pretzel pieces, ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature for even melting.
- Layer the ingredients in the crockpot, starting with chocolate chips at the bottom, followed by butterscotch chips, then peanuts, and finally pretzel pieces on top.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat, allowing the ingredients to slowly melt together. Do not stir during the initial melting phase.
- After approximately 1 hour, gently stir the mixture to ensure even melting and prevent burning.
- Continue cooking for an additional hour, stirring occasionally to maintain smooth consistency.
- Once the chips are completely melted and ingredients are well combined, turn off the crockpot.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop clusters onto parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Allow clusters to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or refrigerate for faster setting.
- Once hardened, break apart any connected pieces and store in an airtight container.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, even melting
- Avoid lifting the crockpot lid too frequently to maintain consistent heat
- Line your workspace with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- For a more uniform look, use a cookie scoop when dropping clusters
- Store clusters in a cool, dry place to maintain their perfect texture
- Experiment with different chip combinations for unique flavor variations
- Don't rush the cooling process - patience ensures the perfect cluster consistency
- For a festive touch, sprinkle green sugar or add green candies before cooling
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg