Christmas Crack, also known as Saltine Cracker Toffee, is a delicious holiday treat that's easy to make and perfect for sharing. This recipe features saltine crackers topped with a rich, buttery toffee layer and melted semi-sweet chocolate, finished with festive sprinkles. Ideal for holiday parties or as a homemade gift, this sweet and salty dessert is sure to be a hit!
Christmas Crack, also known as Saltine Cracker Toffee, is a delicious and addictive holiday treat that combines the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Let's gather the ingredients you'll need to make this simple yet delightful recipe.
INGREDIENTS
- 60 saltine crackers (1 1/2 sleeves): The base for the toffee, providing a crunchy texture and salty flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create the toffee layer.
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Sweetens the toffee and gives it a caramel-like flavor.
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts over the toffee, adding a rich chocolate layer.
- Sprinkles (optional): Adds a festive touch and extra sweetness to the toffee.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil so the bottom and sides are completely covered. This will make cleanup easier and ensure the toffee doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Step 2:
- Place the saltine crackers on the foil until the entire bottom of the baking sheet is filled. Break crackers into smaller pieces as needed to fill in the edges.
- Step 3:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Stir in the brown sugar and continue stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 3 minutes without stirring.
- Step 4:
- Slowly pour the butter mixture all over the crackers. Use a rubber spatula to help make sure all the crackers are covered evenly.
- Step 5:
- Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 5 minutes. This will allow the toffee to set and meld with the crackers.
- Step 6:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips all over the hot crackers. Let the chocolate soften and melt for 2 to 3 minutes. If the chocolate doesn't soften enough on its own, pop the baking sheet back into the warm oven for a couple of minutes.
- Step 7:
- Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the top of the crackers. Add sprinkles if desired for a festive touch.
- Step 8:
- Allow the toffee to cool completely. You can speed up the process by placing the baking sheet in the fridge. Once cooled, break the toffee into pieces and enjoy. Store in an airtight container.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve Christmas Crack as a holiday treat, perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Pair with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful snack.
- Store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to a month.
- Packaged in a decorative tin or jar, Christmas Crack makes a wonderful homemade gift.
Helpful Notes
- Line the baking sheet with foil to ensure easy removal of the toffee and simple cleanup.
- Be sure to pour the butter mixture evenly over the crackers for a uniform toffee layer.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and melting consistency.
- If you prefer, you can use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Ina Garten recommends using a candy thermometer to ensure the toffee mixture reaches the correct temperature for the perfect consistency.
- Chef Alton Brown suggests adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate for an extra layer of flavor.
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis advises toasting the saltine crackers lightly before adding the butter mixture to enhance their flavor and crunch.