Slow-Cooker Holiday Party Recipes

When you've got multiple dishes in the works for a party, the slow cooker is your best friend. The low-and-slow cook method will bring out the best of meatballs, sticky pudding and even hot chocolate.

Made and served in the same pot, our slow-cooker cocoa is thickened and enriched with dark chocolate. Set up an add-ons bar beside the cooker (mini marshmallows, crushed candies and peppermint schnapps take cocoa to a whole new holiday level), then stick a ladle in the pot and let guests help themselves.

Oven space is always at a premium during the holidays, and these slow-cooker spiced nuts won't claim any of it. They're so good and so easy, though, that you'll want to use this method year-round.

This chili is super quick and delicious. The cinnamon and molasses add a touch of earthiness and round out the flavors.