Crockpot Christmas Crack Recipe

The Jolliest Crockpot Christmas Crack Recipe for Sweet Holiday Cheer

Holiday parties call for mind-blowing christmas crack that transforms any gathering into a sweet celebration.

Clusters of chocolate, caramel, and crackers create an irresistible treat everyone adores.

Memories of childhood desserts come flooding back with each crunchy bite.

Minimal effort produces maximum deliciousness in this simple slow cooker marvel.

Salt and sweet dance perfectly across your taste buds.

Rich chocolate layers meld seamlessly with buttery graham base notes.

Friends and relatives will beg you to share this delectable secret recipe.

What Makes Crockpot Christmas Crack So Fun

  • Capture Confectionery Magic: Transform simple ingredients into a stunning homemade candy that looks professionally crafted with minimal kitchen skills required.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, and gift-giving, this pecan brittle delights both kids and adults with its sweet-salty crunch.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap pecans for different nuts or experiment with chocolate varieties to match personal taste preferences and create unique flavor combinations.
  • Low-Maintenance Dessert: Requires basic kitchen tools, minimal active cooking time, and simple steps that even novice bakers can master without stress.

Crockpot Christmas Crack Ingredient List

For the Main Ingredients:
  • White Sugar: The primary sweetener that caramelizes to create the signature golden color and crisp texture of the brittle.
  • Corn Syrup: Prevents sugar crystallization and helps create a smooth, glossy candy base.
  • Water: Dissolves the sugar and helps create the initial syrup mixture.
For the Nuts:
  • Salted Pecans: Provides a rich, nutty crunch and balanced flavor to the sweet brittle.
For the Flavor Enhancers:
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, luxurious texture in the candy.
  • Vanilla Extract: Introduces a warm, complex flavor to the brittle.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Coating:
  • Chocolate Almond Bark: Creates a delicious chocolate layer that adds extra indulgence to the pecan brittle.
For the Preparation:
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal of the brittle and prevents sticking to the baking sheet.
  • Candy Thermometer: Helps achieve the precise temperature for perfect candy consistency.

How To Make Crockpot Christmas Crack

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, covering the entire surface to make candy removal easy and clean.

Step 2: Create Sugar Syrup Base

In a crockpot, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir the mixture until sugar completely dissolves, creating a smooth liquid foundation.

Step 3: Heat to Precise Temperature

Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture. Heat without stirring, allowing the syrup to reach exactly 300°F, which signals the hard crack stage. This process typically takes 20-25 minutes.

Step 4: Remove from Heat

Immediately take the syrup off the heat when it hits 300°F to prevent burning and maintain the perfect caramelization.

Step 5: Enhance Flavor Profile

Quickly whisk in:
  • Butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Salt

Incorporate these ingredients vigorously to distribute flavors evenly throughout the syrup.

Step 6: Incorporate Nuts

Gently fold salted pecans into the caramelized sugar mixture, ensuring complete and thorough coating.

Step 7: Spread Candy Mixture

Pour the molten candy onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread the mixture into a thin, uniform layer.

Step 8: Cool and Set

Allow the candy to cool and harden at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until completely set and firm.

Step 9: Prepare Chocolate Coating

Melt chocolate almond bark using a microwave or double boiler until smooth and glossy.

Step 10: Add Chocolate Layer

Drizzle or spread melted chocolate over the cooled pecan brittle, creating an even and attractive coating.

Step 11: Chill Chocolate Layer

Refrigerate the brittle for 10-15 minutes to help the chocolate set quickly and firmly.

Step 12: Break and Store

Break the brittle into irregular, rustic pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Tips For Crockpot Christmas Crack Success

  • Prevent Sticky Situations: Line your baking sheet completely with parchment paper for effortless candy removal and easy cleanup.
  • Master Candy Temperature: Use a candy thermometer to hit exactly 300°F, avoiding burnt sugar and ensuring perfect brittle texture.
  • Quick Mixing Magic: Remove syrup from heat immediately after reaching temperature and whisk butter, vanilla, and salt vigorously for smooth, even distribution.
  • Even Pecan Coating: Fold pecans gently but thoroughly to guarantee each nut gets completely covered in caramelized sugar syrup.
  • Chocolate Drizzle Technique: Melt chocolate smoothly in microwave or double boiler, creating a glossy finish that adds richness to your pecan brittle.

Flavor Ideas For Crockpot Christmas Crack

  • Nut-Free Brittle: Replace pecans with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for an allergen-friendly version that maintains the same crunchy texture.
  • Dark Chocolate Decadence: Swap milk chocolate almond bark for dark chocolate with 70% cocoa content, creating a richer, less sweet coating with intense chocolate flavor.
  • Spiced Sensation: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the sugar syrup for a warming, unexpected kick that complements the sweet brittle.
  • Vegan Crunch: Use coconut sugar instead of white sugar, replace corn syrup with brown rice syrup, and substitute butter with coconut oil for a plant-based alternative that delivers the same satisfying crunch.

Pairings For Crockpot Christmas Crack

  • Brew Bold Coffee Companion: Dark roast or espresso cuts through the sweetness, balancing the rich caramel and chocolate notes with its robust intensity.
  • Select Smooth Whiskey Pairing: Bourbon or scotch enhances the nutty pecan flavor, creating a warm, sophisticated dessert experience that highlights the candy's deep caramel undertones.
  • Discover Wine Harmony: Late harvest Riesling or tawny port offers a sweet counterpoint, its fruity complexity dancing alongside the brittle's buttery, crunchy texture.
  • Craft Ice Cream Accent: Vanilla bean or salted caramel ice cream provides a creamy contrast, melting deliciously against the brittle's crisp, golden surface.

Storage Tips For Crockpot Christmas Crack

  • Store pecan brittle in an airtight container, layering pieces between parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to three weeks, maintaining crisp texture and preventing moisture absorption.
  • Wrap brittle tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to preserve original crunchiness.
  • Place brittle in a sealed container with a tight-fitting lid, storing in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Consume within two weeks for optimal flavor and texture.
  • Add a small silica gel packet inside the storage container to absorb excess moisture, preventing candy from becoming sticky or soft during storage.

Crockpot Christmas Crack Common Questions

  • Why use a candy thermometer for this recipe?

A candy thermometer ensures precise temperature for perfect caramelization, preventing burning and guaranteeing the right texture for your pecan brittle.

  • Can I substitute corn syrup with another ingredient?

While corn syrup provides the smooth, glossy texture, you can use honey or maple syrup, but the consistency might slightly change.

  • How do I know when the sugar syrup is ready?

Look for a deep golden color and 300°F on the candy thermometer, which indicates the hard crack stage for perfect brittle.

  • What type of pecans work best for this recipe?

Whole, raw salted pecans are ideal, as they provide a rich flavor and crisp texture when incorporated into the brittle.

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Crockpot Christmas Crack Recipe

Crockpot Christmas Crack Recipe


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4.6 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Festive holiday magic unfolds with Christmas Crack, a slow-cooker delicacy that blends sweet chocolate and crunchy graham crackers. Rich caramel layers melt together, creating an irresistible treat you can’t stop munching.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 package chocolate almond bark

Sugars and Sweeteners:

  • 2 cups white granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup water

Nuts and Add-ins:

  • 2 cups salted pecans
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy candy removal.
  2. In a crockpot, combine white sugar, corn syrup, and water, stirring until sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Insert a candy thermometer and heat the mixture without stirring, allowing it to reach 300°F (hard crack stage), which typically takes 20-25 minutes.
  4. Once the syrup reaches the precise temperature, immediately remove from heat to prevent burning.
  5. Quickly stir in butter, vanilla extract, and salt, whisking vigorously to incorporate evenly throughout the mixture.
  6. Gently fold in salted pecans, ensuring they are thoroughly coated with the caramelized sugar syrup.
  7. Pour the molten candy mixture onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it into an even, thin layer using a spatula.
  8. Allow the candy to cool and harden at room temperature for approximately 30-45 minutes until completely set.
  9. Melt chocolate almond bark in the microwave or using a double boiler until smooth and glossy.
  10. Drizzle or spread melted chocolate over the cooled pecan brittle, creating an even coating.
  11. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to help chocolate set quickly.
  12. Break into irregular pieces and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Notes

  • Ensure parchment paper is completely flat to prevent uneven candy spreading, which could create inconsistent thickness.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed crockpot for even heat distribution and prevent sugar from burning at the bottom.
  • Avoid stirring syrup during heating, as this can cause sugar crystallization and result in grainy texture.
  • Monitor temperature precisely with a reliable candy thermometer to achieve perfect hard crack stage without burning.
  • Preheating nuts slightly can enhance their toasty flavor and prevent temperature drop when added to hot syrup.
  • Work quickly when pouring and spreading candy to maintain smooth, glossy appearance before hardening begins.
  • For gluten-free version, confirm all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially corn syrup and chocolate.
  • Consider substituting pecans with almonds or cashews for different flavor profiles and potential nut allergies.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-45 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 355
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 72 mg
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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