Description
Christmas Crack is an indulgent holiday treat featuring a crispy saltine cracker base topped with a rich brown sugar and butter caramel layer, finished with melted semisweet chocolate and festive sprinkles. This easy-to-make dessert combines salty and sweet flavors with a satisfying crunch that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 40 saltine crackers
Caramel Topping
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
Chocolate Topping
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (Guittard or Ghirardelli recommended)
Garnish
- 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles or 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Other
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil and coat it with cooking spray. Alternatively, use a nonstick silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Arrange Crackers: Lay the 40 saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, covering the entire surface.
- Make Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup butter and 1 cup packed brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine well.
- Coat Crackers: Pour the hot brown sugar and butter mixture evenly over the arranged saltine crackers. Use a spatula to spread the caramel mixture ensuring all crackers are well-coated.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 3 to 5 minutes until the caramel mixture is bubbling.
- Apply Chocolate: Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Return the pan to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes to melt the chocolate fully.
- Spread Chocolate: After melting, use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly over the entire toffee layer.
- Add Sprinkles: While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles or sliced almonds on top for festive decoration and added texture.
- Cool and Serve: Let the treat cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate is set. Once firm, cut into pieces and serve.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate chips like Guittard or Ghirardelli for best flavor and texture; avoid Nestle as recommended.
- Make sure to boil the caramel mixture for the full 3 minutes for a proper consistency.
- Cooking spray or a silicone mat prevents the candies from sticking to the pan, making cleanup easier.
- You can substitute sprinkles with sliced almonds or other nuts for variation.
- This treat is best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Cut into small pieces as this candy is very rich and sweet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Christmas Crack, holiday toffee, saltine cracker toffee, easy holiday dessert, Christmas candy
