Christmas Crack Saltine Toffee Recipe

Introduction

Christmas Crack, also known as Saltine Toffee, is a delightfully sweet and crunchy treat perfect for the holiday season. With its buttery toffee layer atop crispy crackers and a rich chocolate topping, this easy-to-make candy will quickly become a festive favorite.

Ingredients

• 40 saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Optional toppings:
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
  • 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
  • Holiday sprinkles or toffee bits, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a 10×15-inch rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer to completely cover the pan.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil. Boil for exactly 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and caramel-like.
3. Step 3: Immediately pour the hot toffee evenly over the saltine crackers and spread quickly with a spatula. Bake in the oven for 5 minutes until the toffee is bubbly all over.
4. Step 4: Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee layer. Let sit for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the chocolate to soften, then spread into a smooth layer using a spatula.
5. Step 5: Add your choice of toppings such as nuts, crushed candy canes, flaky sea salt, or festive sprinkles. Chill the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until firm.
6. Step 6: Use the foil overhang to lift the candy from the pan. Break into pieces by hand or cut with a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy your festive Christmas Crack!

Tips & Variations

• For a gluten-free version, substitute saltine crackers with gluten-free crackers.
• Use dark or white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different flavor profile.
• Toast nuts beforehand to enhance their flavor when sprinkled on top.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the toffee for a spicy holiday twist.

Storage

Store Christmas Crack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for up to two weeks. When ready to enjoy, bring to room temperature for easier breaking and best texture. Refrain from microwaving as it can alter the toffee’s crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, while saltine crackers provide the perfect balance of salty and crunchy, you can experiment with other thin, sturdy crackers if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary.

Why is it important to boil the toffee for exactly 3 minutes?

Boiling for 3 minutes ensures the sugar and butter reach the right temperature and consistency to create a smooth, caramel-like toffee that hardens properly. Less time may result in a sticky texture, while too long can cause burning.

Christmas Crack Saltine Toffee Recipe

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This Christmas Crack recipe combines the salty crunch of saltine crackers with a rich buttery toffee layer and a smooth chocolate topping, finished with festive toppings like nuts, crushed candy canes, or sea salt. It’s a simple, irresistible holiday treat perfect for gifting or snacking.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: About 40 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 40 saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional Toppings

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
• 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
• Holiday sprinkles or toffee bits, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Cracker Base: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 10×15-inch rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Arrange the 40 saltine crackers in a single layer to cover the entire pan without overlapping.
2. Make Toffee Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in 1 cup of packed light brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and continue boiling for exactly 3 minutes, stirring constantly. This will result in a smooth, caramel-like toffee.
3. Pour and Bake Toffee: Immediately pour the hot toffee evenly over the saltine crackers, spreading quickly with a spatula to cover all crackers. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes until the toffee mixture is bubbly all over.
4. Add Chocolate Layer: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee layer. Let them sit for 2 to 3 minutes to soften, then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate into a smooth, even layer.
5. Add Toppings and Chill: Sprinkle your choice of optional toppings, such as 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, 1/4 cup crushed candy canes, 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt, or holiday sprinkles and toffee bits. Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the toffee and chocolate are firm.
6. Serve: Using the foil or parchment overhang, lift the candy from the pan. Break into pieces by hand or cut with a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy your festive Christmas Crack!

Notes

• For even coverage, arrange the saltines tightly on the baking sheet without gaps.
• Boiling the toffee mixture for the full 3 minutes ensures proper caramelization and a firm texture.
• Use semi-sweet chocolate chips as they melt well and balance the sweetness.
• Customize toppings to suit your holiday theme or preferences.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the toffee crisp.

Keywords: Christmas Crack, Saltine Toffee, Holiday Candy, Easy Toffee Recipe, Festive Treats