Grinch Crack Recipe
Introduction
Grinch Crack is a festive and addictive treat that combines salty crackers, rich toffee, and sweet green candy coating. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this easy-to-make snack dazzles with its crunchy texture and colorful sprinkles.
Ingredients
- 35-40 saltine crackers
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 cups light green candy melts (about 1 12-ounce bag)
- Red heart sprinkles
- Green sprinkles of choice
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 10 x 15-inch baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Step 2: Arrange the saltine crackers in even rows on the prepared pan until the bottom is fully covered. Set aside.
- Step 3: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture reaches a full boil. Continue boiling for 2-3 minutes until the temperature reaches 270-290 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Step 4: Pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the arranged crackers. Use a heat-safe spatula to spread it evenly. Bake for 5 minutes.
- Step 5: Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the green candy melts evenly over the hot toffee. Let sit for 2-3 minutes until the candy melts soften.
- Step 6: Spread the melted candy evenly over the toffee layer. Sprinkle with red heart sprinkles and green sprinkles of your choice. Allow the treat to cool completely and harden before breaking into pieces and serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the toffee reaches the right temperature for perfect texture.
- Swap green candy melts for white or other festive colors to suit different occasions.
- Try adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flavor and crunch.
- Make sure to spread the toffee quickly and evenly before baking for a consistent coating.
Storage
Store Grinch Crack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep it away from humidity to maintain crispness. If you want to re-crisp slightly, warm pieces in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of crackers for this recipe?
Yes, while saltine crackers are traditional and provide a great salty contrast, you can experiment with other thin, crispy crackers. Just make sure they fit well on your baking sheet and hold up to the toffee coating.
What if I don’t have candy melts?
If candy melts are unavailable, you can use white chocolate chips or melting chocolate, adding green food coloring to achieve the desired color. Melt gently to avoid burning and proceed with the recipe as directed.
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Grinch Crack Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 40 pieces 1x
Description
Grinch Crack is a delightful holiday treat featuring a crispy saltine cracker base topped with rich homemade toffee, coated in melted green candy melts, and adorned with festive red and green sprinkles. This easy-to-make sweet and salty snack is perfect for sharing during holiday gatherings or gifting.
Ingredients
Crackers
- 35–40 saltine crackers
Toffee
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
Topping
- 2 cups light green candy melts (about one 12-ounce bag)
- Red heart sprinkles
- Green sprinkles of choice
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 10 x 15-inch baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the finished crack.
- Arrange the crackers: Place 35 to 40 saltine crackers in even rows on the prepared baking sheet until the bottom is completely covered. Set aside while preparing the toffee.
- Melt and boil toffee mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to boil. Maintain the boil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the temperature reaches between 270°F and 290°F, achieving a proper toffee consistency.
- Pour and bake: Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the arranged saltine crackers. Use a heat-safe spatula to spread the toffee across the crackers evenly. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5 minutes to set the toffee and enhance its flavor.
- Melt candy melts: Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle 2 cups of light green candy melts evenly over the hot toffee. Let the pan sit undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until the candy melts soften and melt completely.
- Spread and decorate: Using a spatula, spread the melted green candy evenly over the toffee layer. While still soft, sprinkle red heart sprinkles and your choice of green sprinkles over the top for a festive holiday look.
- Cool and serve: Allow the Grinch Crack to cool completely at room temperature, or place it in the refrigerator to harden faster. Once hardened, break into pieces and serve or package for gifting.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to monitor the toffee temperature for perfect results.
- Line your baking sheet with foil and use nonstick spray for easy cleanup and removal.
- You can substitute the red and green sprinkles with other festive decorations for a personalized touch.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For a quicker hardening process, refrigerate after spreading the candy melts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Grinch Crack, saltine toffee, holiday treat, Christmas candy, easy desserts, toffee recipe, festive snacks
