If you’re anything like me, the holidays evoke a sense of nostalgia, bringing back memories of cozy kitchens filled with the sweet scents of baking treats. I recently rediscovered a gem of a recipe: Crockpot Avalanche Cookies. This delightful concoction is a testament to making life easier without skimping on flavor or fun. Picture this: creamy peanut butter mingling with smooth almond bark, and then a flurry of Rice Krispies and marshmallows join the party, creating a chewy, crunchy sensation that’s perfect for any gathering.
After a long day of holiday shopping or simply looking for a fun kitchen project to share with family, these cookies come together with minimal effort. Simply toss the ingredients in the crockpot, and let it work its magic while you enjoy a cup of your favorite holiday beverage. The highlight? These cookies not only taste amazing, they look festive too with a sprinkle of holiday cheer on top. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or saving a stash for yourself, you’ll find these treats become a beloved staple in your home. Let’s dive into the delightful world of Crockpot Avalanche Cookies!
Why are Crockpot Avalanche Cookies so special?
Simplicity: This recipe is perfect for busy home cooks, with minimal hands-on time required.
Decadent flavor: The rich almond bark and creamy peanut butter blend seamlessly for a dreamy taste sensation.
Fun texture: The crunch of Rice Krispies paired with soft marshmallows creates an irresistible bite.
Festive presentation: A sprinkle of holiday cheer ensures these cookies are a showstopper at any gathering.
Time-saving: Make them in a crockpot while you relax or tackle other holiday tasks—it’s that easy! Whether you’re at a family gathering or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to enchant everyone around.
Crockpot Avalanche Cookies Ingredients
• Perfect for your easy baking needs!
- 1 pound almond bark – ensures a smooth, chocolatey base.
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter – adds richness and a delightful nutty flavor.
- 2 cups Rice Krispies – gives that essential crunch to balance the softness.
- 2 cups mini marshmallows – bring a chewy sweetness to each bite.
- ¼ cup holiday sprinkles – adds a festive touch, making your cookies as fun as they are delicious!
How to Make Crockpot Avalanche Cookies
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Combine ingredients: Add the almond bark and creamy peanut butter to your crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes until everything is melted and blended beautifully.
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Cool down: Once the cooking time is up, turn off the crockpot. Uncover the mixture and let it cool for 15 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly but remain warm.
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Mix in crunch: Gently stir in the Rice Krispies and mini marshmallows until everything is evenly coated. This step combines textures, creating that signature chewy, crunchy delight!
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Scoop onto sheets: Line two baking sheets with wax or parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or large spoon, dollop the mixture onto the lined pans. Add holiday sprinkles immediately; this helps them stick before the mixture hardens.
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Set the cookies: Allow the cookies to set for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator or for approximately 4 hours at room temperature. You’ll know they’re ready once they firm up to a perfect cookie texture.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Avalanche Cookies are not just delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps of melting the almond bark and peanut butter, then mix in the Rice Krispies and marshmallows before scooping them onto the baking sheets. Cover the prepared cookie mounds with plastic wrap and refrigerate them overnight for best results. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly before serving. This way, you will have fresh, crowd-pleasing cookies with minimal fuss, making your busy days a little sweeter!
Crockpot Avalanche Cookies Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and create your own delightful twist on these beloved cookies!
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Nut-Free: Substitute almond bark with dairy-free chocolate and swap peanut butter for sunbutter for a nut-free version.
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Flavor Blast: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor that elevates every bite.
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Oatmeal Crunch: Mix in 1 cup of quick oats instead of half the Rice Krispies for a heartier texture that adds chewiness.
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Holiday Spice: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to give these cookies a warm, festive aroma that dances in the air.
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Coconut Surprise: Fold in 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
Indulging in creativity can take your baking experience to new heights! Each of these variations is like a new chapter in the delicious story of your cookies, appealing to different tastes and celebrating the joy of homemade treats.
What to Serve with Crockpot Avalanche Cookies?
As you indulge in these delightful cookies, consider pairing them with treats and drinks that enhance their charm and festive flair.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of hot chocolate complements the cookies’ sweetness, creating a cozy, indulgent experience for your taste buds.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookies, providing a delightful temperature and flavor contrast.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of fresh berries and citrus adds a refreshing balance to the rich cookies, lightening up your dessert spread beautifully.
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Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix with nuts and dried fruit offers a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the cookies, making it a deliciously balanced snack option.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee or espresso pair wonderfully with the cookies, enhancing their rich, nutty profile for an adult-friendly treat.
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Holiday Punch: A fruity, festive punch can elevate your dessert table, inviting guests to sip and savor the delights of the season alongside your sweet creations.
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Chocolate-Covered Fruit: The lusciousness of chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas echoes the rich flavors of the cookies while adding a splash of freshness to every bite.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The warming spices in chai tea offer a fragrant accompaniment that harmonizes with the cookie’s cheerful, cozy vibes for a perfect pairing.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Avalanche Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
Fridge: You can refrigerate the cookies for up to 1 week in an airtight container. The cool environment helps them stay fresh longer.
Freezer: To freeze, place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for a delicious treat anytime.
Reheating: If desired, gently warm individual cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their soft, gooey goodness before enjoying!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Avalanche Cookies
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Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality almond bark and peanut butter for best flavor. The richness of these ingredients makes the cookies truly indulgent.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on cooking time. Overheating can cause the almond bark to seize, making it difficult to mix in the Rice Krispies and marshmallows.
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Cool Before Scooping: Allow the mixture to cool for the full 15 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape better when scooped, preventing them from spreading too much.
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Timely Sprinkling: Top the cookies with sprinkles while the mixture is still warm. This ensures they stick well, adding that festive flair to your Crockpot Avalanche Cookies.
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Chill for Perfect Texture: For ideal consistency, setting in the refrigerator for 30 minutes can give you a firmer, delightful cookie.
Crockpot Avalanche Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of almond bark should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using high-quality white or chocolate almond bark. You can often find these in the baking aisle, and they should be smooth and creamy when melted, ensuring your cookies come out delicious.
How should I store leftover Crockpot Avalanche Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them chewy and flavorful. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, keeping that delightful texture intact.
Can I freeze Crockpot Avalanche Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply allow them to thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-from-the-crockpot taste!
What if my mixture seems too thick before scooping?
Very! If your mixture appears too thick, it might be that the almond bark wasn’t fully melted. Give it a good stir and reheat in the crockpot on low for another 5-10 minutes, checking frequently. This will help loosen it up, making it easier to scoop out.
Are there allergy considerations for this recipe?
Indeed! This recipe contains peanut butter, which is a common allergen. If an allergy or dietary restriction is a concern, you can substitute the peanut butter with sun butter or almond butter. Always check labels to ensure there are no additional allergens, especially if sharing with others.
Irresistibly Easy Crockpot Avalanche Cookies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add the almond bark and creamy peanut butter to your crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes until everything is melted and blended beautifully.
- Once the cooking time is up, turn off the crockpot. Uncover the mixture and let it cool for 15 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly but remain warm.
- Gently stir in the Rice Krispies and mini marshmallows until everything is evenly coated.
- Line two baking sheets with wax or parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or large spoon, dollop the mixture onto the lined pans. Add holiday sprinkles immediately; this helps them stick before the mixture hardens.
- Allow the cookies to set for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator or for approximately 4 hours at room temperature.
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