Pin it
This homemade Christmas Crack is an easy recipe that creates an irresistibly addictive holiday treat combining buttery toffee, saltine crackers, and rich chocolate. Perfect for gifting or holiday gatherings, this simple yet impressive dessert features layers of sweet and salty flavors that can be customized with festive toppings. Everyone who tries it understands exactly why it earned its playful name!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This holiday favorite combines the perfect balance of salty crackers, buttery toffee, and rich chocolate in every bite. It's incredibly simple to make with just a few basic ingredients, yet looks and tastes like a gourmet treat. The recipe is endlessly customizable with different toppings, making it perfect for holiday gifting or adding a personal touch to your dessert table.
Ingredients for Christmas Crack
- For the Base:
- 1 sleeve (about 40) saltine crackers
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional Toppings:
- Crushed candy canes
- Chopped nuts (pecans, almonds, or peanuts)
- Holiday sprinkles
- Toffee bits
- Shredded coconut
- Equipment Needed:
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Offset spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper. Arrange saltines in single layer, salt side up.
- Make the Toffee
- Combine butter and brown sugar in saucepan. Bring to boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 3 minutes without stirring.
- Pour and Bake
- Pour hot toffee over crackers, spreading evenly. Bake for 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Add Chocolate
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with chocolate chips. Let stand 5 minutes until melted. Spread chocolate evenly.
- Add Toppings and Set
- Sprinkle chosen toppings over melted chocolate. Refrigerate until completely set, about 2 hours.
- Break and Store
- Break into irregular pieces. Store in airtight container between layers of parchment paper.
Pro Tips for Success
Use fresh saltines for best results. Don't overcook the toffee or it may separate. Line pan with parchment for easy removal. Add toppings while chocolate is still warm. Break into pieces while cold for clean breaks. Work quickly when spreading chocolate as it starts to set fast.
Pin it
Serving Suggestions
Present on holiday cookie platters. Package in decorative tins for gifting. Add to dessert charcuterie boards. Serve alongside coffee or hot chocolate. Consider making multiple batches with different toppings for variety. Perfect addition to holiday cookie exchanges.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store at room temperature up to 1 week in airtight container. Refrigerate for 2-3 weeks between layers of parchment paper. Can be frozen up to 3 months. If making ahead, store without toppings and add just before serving. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I know when the toffee is ready?
The toffee needs to reach between 270°F - 290°F, darken in color, and thicken slightly. This usually takes 3-5 minutes of boiling while stirring constantly.
- → Can I speed up the setting process?
Yes, while refrigeration takes about an hour, you can place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes for quicker setting.
- → Why place crackers salted side down?
Placing crackers salted side down helps the toffee adhere better to the crackers and balances the flavors in the final product.
- → How should I break it apart?
Break the set candy into uneven pieces by hand for a rustic look. The irregular shapes are part of its charm.
- → How should I store Christmas Crack?
Store in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature but stays crunchier if refrigerated.
Conclusion
This addictive holiday treat transforms simple saltine crackers with homemade toffee and chocolate topping.Easy to make with just a few ingredients, it's a perfect sweet and salty combination that will delight your taste buds during the festive season.