Simple Easter Candy Clusters

Featured in Bake Something Special.

Crockpot Easter Candy Clusters are a delightful and simple treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. Made using white almond bark, salted peanuts, pastel mini marshmallows, and festive Easter toppings like candy-coated chocolates and sprinkles, these clusters come together with minimal effort. The process involves melting the white chocolate in a slow cooker, mixing in the ingredients, and letting the clusters set before enjoying them. This is a versatile recipe with options to switch out ingredients like peanuts for cashews or adding extra crunch with Rice Krispies. It’s a fun recipe for kids and adults alike!
Rose
Updated on Thu, 13 Mar 2025 16:10:09 GMT
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Creating these delightful Easter Candy Clusters in your crockpot brings together the perfect blend of creamy white chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and festive pastel candies. This no-fuss recipe transforms simple ingredients into irresistible treats that capture the spirit of spring celebrations.

I've made these clusters countless times for Easter gatherings, and they're always the first treat to disappear from the dessert table. My nieces particularly love helping to decorate them with colorful sprinkles.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • White Almond Bark/Melting Wafers: Forms the creamy base - choose high-quality brands for the smoothest texture
  • Salted Peanuts: Provides essential crunch and balances sweetness - ensure freshness by checking expiration dates
  • Pastel Mini Marshmallows: Adds soft texture and festive color - look for fresh, pillowy ones
  • Pastel M&M's: Creates visual appeal and chocolate contrast - seasonal Easter colors work best
  • Easter Sprinkles: Optional but adds festive touch - choose complementary pastel colors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Melting Phase
Place white chocolate in slow cooker on low. Stir every 15 minutes. Continue until completely smooth (45-60 minutes).
Step 2: Mixing Components
Fold in peanuts until well-coated. Gently incorporate marshmallows. Work quickly to prevent marshmallow melting.
Step 3: Forming Clusters
Drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper. Press M&M's into warm clusters. Add sprinkles immediately.
Step 4: Setting Process
Allow to set at room temperature. Alternative: refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. Store in airtight container.

My family particularly loves the white chocolate base - it's become our preferred choice over traditional milk chocolate. The creamy sweetness pairs perfectly with the salty peanuts.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Keep in cool, dry place up to 2 weeks
  • Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking
  • Avoid refrigeration to prevent chocolate bloom

During humid weather, I've found storing these in an airtight container with a silica gel packet helps maintain their texture perfectly.

Professional Chef Notes

  • Temper chocolate at 88-90°F for optimal shine
  • Add 1 tablespoon coconut oil for smoother melting
  • Never exceed low heat setting to prevent burning

After years of making these clusters, I've found they're not just a holiday treat - they're a year-round favorite that can be adapted for any occasion. The slow cooker method makes this recipe virtually foolproof, ensuring perfect results every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute white chocolate with milk or dark chocolate for a different flavor.
→ How do I store the candy clusters?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
→ Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can mix in chopped pretzels, Rice Krispies, or crushed graham crackers for extra texture.
→ Can I make these without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can melt the chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler and follow the same steps.
→ How long does it take for the clusters to set?
They set in about an hour at room temperature or 15-20 minutes in the fridge.

Easy Easter Candy Clusters

Quick and fun Easter treat made with white chocolate and pastel candies.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
60 Minutes
Total Time
70 Minutes
By: Rose

Category: Sweet Treats

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 24 Servings (24 candy clusters)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1 pound white almond bark or white chocolate melting wafers
02 1 cup salted peanuts
03 1 cup pastel-colored mini marshmallows for Easter
04 1 cup pastel M&M's or candy-coated chocolate eggs
05 Easter sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

Place the white almond bark or melting wafers into a slow cooker. Set the cooker to low heat and gradually melt the chocolate, stirring every so often. This will take roughly 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your slow cooker.

Step 02

Once the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, mix in the salted peanuts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Then, gently fold in the pastel-colored mini marshmallows, ensuring they don’t melt fully.

Step 03

Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop small portions of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press pastel M&M’s or candy-coated chocolate eggs onto the top of each cluster, and sprinkle with festive Easter sprinkles if desired.

Step 04

Let the clusters cool at room temperature for about an hour until hardened. If you want to speed this up, refrigerate them for 15 to 20 minutes. Once set, transfer the clusters to a storage container or serve immediately!

Notes

  1. Using high-quality white chocolate will give the clusters a creamier, smoother texture.
  2. You can substitute the white chocolate with milk or dark chocolate for a different flavor.
  3. For added crunch, mix in chopped pretzels, Rice Krispies, or crushed graham crackers.
  4. For a softer texture, replace peanuts with cashews or pecans.

Tools You'll Need

  • Slow cooker
  • Parchment paper
  • Spoon or cookie scoop
  • Baking sheet

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Peanuts
  • Dairy (in white chocolate)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 210
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~