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This Christmas Crack treat from scratch combines addictive layers of crispy saltines, homemade buttery toffee, and melted chocolate for an unforgettable holiday snack. It's super simple to whip up yet leaves a lasting impression, making it perfect for giving as gifts or bringing to festive get-togethers. The sweet-salty combo can be jazzed up with fun holiday toppings, and once you taste it, you'll totally understand where its playful nickname came from!
What Makes This Sweet Treat Special
Every bite delivers an amazing mix of crunchy saltines, smooth toffee, and decadent chocolate. You'll only need a handful of everyday ingredients to make something that looks fancy but isn't complicated at all. You can switch up the toppings however you want, so it's great for giving as presents or adding your own special flair to your holiday dessert spread.
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
- Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Put parchment paper in your 9x13-inch pan. Place saltines in one layer with the salt facing up.
- Make the Toffee
- Mix butter and brown sugar in your pot. Let it come to a boil while stirring the whole time. Once boiling, leave it alone for 3 minutes.
- Pour and Bake
- Dump the hot toffee mixture over your crackers and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven for 5 minutes until it gets bubbly.
- Add Chocolate
- Take it out of the oven and throw the chocolate chips on top. Wait about 5 minutes for them to get soft. Then spread the melty chocolate around.
- Add Toppings and Set
- Scatter your favorite toppings over the warm chocolate. Stick it in the fridge for about 2 hours until it's totally firm.
- Break and Store
- Snap it into random chunks. Keep them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
Smart Tricks for Perfect Results
Don't use stale crackers. Watch your toffee carefully so it doesn't split. Parchment paper makes cleanup way easier. Put your toppings on while the chocolate's still gooey. Break it when it's cold from the fridge. Move fast when spreading chocolate because it hardens pretty quick.
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Ways to Enjoy It
Add it to your holiday cookie trays. Pack it in cute tins as gifts. Include it on dessert boards. It goes great with coffee or hot cocoa. Try making several batches with different toppings. It's a hit at cookie swaps during the holidays.
Keeping It Fresh
It'll stay good in an airtight container for up to a week at room temp. In the fridge between parchment sheets, it lasts 2-3 weeks. You can freeze it for up to 3 months if needed. If you're making it ahead, wait to add the toppings until right before serving. Let it warm up a bit before eating for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What signs show the toffee is ready?
The toffee should reach a temp of 270°F - 290°F, become darker in color, and thicken. Stir while boiling for about 3-5 minutes.
- → How do I speed up cooling?
Instead of refrigerating for an hour, set the tray in the freezer and it’ll be ready in about 30 minutes.
- → Why place crackers with salt side down?
To ensure good toffee adhesion and better flavor balance, lay the salty side of the crackers against the baking sheet.
- → What’s the best way to break it apart?
Snap the cooled toffee into uneven bites by hand for a fun, rustic look. The irregular shapes add charm!
- → What’s the best way to store this treat?
Keep it in an airtight container. You can leave it out at room temp, but it stays crispier when stored in the fridge.
Conclusion
Crunchy saltines are topped with smooth homemade toffee and a chocolate layer.With only a handful of ingredients, this festive snack combines rich, sweet, and salty flavors folks love during the holidays.