Easy 3 Ingredient Crockpot Peanut Clusters (No-Fail Slow Cooker Candy)

You know those recipes that make people think you worked way harder than you actually did?

These 3 Ingredient Crockpot Peanut Clusters are exactly that.

The first time I made them, I tossed everything in my slow cooker, walked away, and came back to what looked like a chocolate candy factory in my kitchen. My family inhaled them in two days. Two. Days. Ever since then, I make a batch every holiday season—and at least once in the summer when I pretend I’m “making them for a party.”

If you want an easy crockpot dessert, a foolproof slow cooker candy recipe, or a last-minute homemade gift idea, this one’s for you. And yes, it only takes three ingredients. No candy thermometer. No double boiler. No drama.

Let’s do this.

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What Are Crockpot Peanut Clusters?

Crockpot peanut clusters are bite-sized candies made by melting chocolate and peanuts together in a slow cooker, then spooning the mixture into clusters to set.

That’s it.

You get:

• Creamy melted chocolate
• Salty roasted peanuts
• A perfectly sweet-and-salty bite

Ever wondered why these show up at every church potluck and Christmas cookie exchange in America? Because they’re ridiculously easy and basically impossible to mess up.

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Why This 3 Ingredient Peanut Clusters Recipe Works

After testing several versions (and eating… let’s not count how many), I noticed the best recipes all follow the same core principles:

• Use layered chocolate instead of stirring constantly
• Cook on LOW only
• Avoid adding extra liquid
• Let them set at room temperature

When I tried shortcuts—like turning the heat up—I scorched chocolate. Once. That smell lingers. Learn from me.

This version keeps things simple and consistent.

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The Only 3 Ingredients You Need

Here’s where the magic happens.

1. Dry Roasted Peanuts (Salted)

I always use dry roasted salted peanuts. The salt balances the sweetness perfectly.

You’ll need:

• 32 oz (2 pounds) roasted peanuts

Trust me—don’t skip the salt. The contrast makes the candy addictive.

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2. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

Semi-sweet gives that classic chocolate flavor without making the clusters overly sugary.

You’ll need:

• 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

I like using good quality chips like Ghirardelli because they melt smoothly and taste richer.

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3. White Almond Bark (or Vanilla Candy Coating)

This ingredient changes everything.

You’ll need:

• 24 oz white almond bark, broken into chunks

The almond bark helps the clusters set beautifully without needing tempering. It also adds that creamy sweetness that balances the peanuts.

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The Best Slow Cooker for Peanut Clusters

I use the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker for this recipe. It distributes heat evenly and holds a full batch easily.

You can check it here:
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If you make candy often, I also recommend using Reynolds Kitchens Parchment Paper Sheets for easy cleanup:
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Little upgrades like parchment paper make the process so much smoother.

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Step-by-Step: How I Make 3 Ingredient Crockpot Peanut Clusters

Step 1: Layer Everything (Don’t Stir Yet)

Add ingredients in this order:

1. Peanuts on the bottom
2. Chocolate chips in the middle
3. Almond bark on top

Do not stir.

Why? The layered method prevents scorching. The chocolate melts gradually from the top down.

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Step 2: Cook on LOW

• Cover with lid
• Cook on LOW for 2 hours

Do not lift the lid every five minutes. I know it’s tempting. Just let it work.

After 2 hours, stir everything gently until smooth.

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Step 3: Spoon into Clusters

Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop spoonfuls onto the paper.

They don’t have to look perfect. In fact, slightly messy clusters look homemade and charming.

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Step 4: Let Them Set

Let clusters sit at room temperature for about 1–2 hours.

If you’re impatient (I usually am), pop them in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Once firm, they’re ready to eat.

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Tips for Perfect Peanut Clusters Every Time

1. Never Cook on High

High heat scorches chocolate. Always use LOW.

2. Avoid Moisture

Water ruins melted chocolate.

Make sure your slow cooker and utensils are completely dry.

3. Use a Cookie Scoop

A OXO Good Grips Medium Cookie Scoop makes uniform clusters and saves time:
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Uniform size means even setting and prettier presentation.

4. Don’t Over-Stir

Stir just enough to combine.

Too much stirring can thicken the chocolate too quickly.

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Flavor Variations I’ve Tried (And Loved)

Once you master the base recipe, you can experiment.

Here are my favorites:

• Add 1 cup mini marshmallows
• Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top
• Mix in pretzel pieces
• Add crushed candy canes during holidays
• Swap half the peanuts for cashews

Ever tried adding a pinch of cayenne for sweet heat? It sounds wild, but it works.

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Storage & Shelf Life

Store peanut clusters in:

• An airtight container
• Room temperature
• Up to 2 weeks

They also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.

I often make double batches and freeze half. Future me always feels grateful.

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Why This Recipe Beats Stovetop Candy

Let’s compare honestly.

Crockpot Method

• Hands-off
• No thermometer
• Minimal effort
• Consistent results

Stovetop Method

• Requires attention
• Easy to burn
• More cleanup

Which one sounds better after a long day? Exactly.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve made them all, so you don’t have to.

• Turning heat to HIGH
• Using unsalted peanuts and skipping salt
• Adding milk (don’t!)
• Stirring too early

Chocolate rewards patience.