Description
This Christmas Crack recipe is a delightful holiday treat featuring a crispy saltine cracker base topped with a rich caramel toffee layer, melted chocolate, and festive toppings like chopped pecans or M&M’s. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this easy-to-make snack combines sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 40 saltine crackers (about one sleeve)
Caramel Toffee Layer
- 1 cup butter (salted or unsalted)
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips (or any preferred chocolate)
- 1 cup chopped pecans, walnuts, or M&M’s
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the saltine crackers side by side in a single layer to cover the sheet. Set aside.
- Make the caramel toffee: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and brown sugar. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon until the butter is fully melted and the mixture begins to bubble. Maintain stirring and cook for 3 more minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble the toffee layer: Pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the arranged saltine crackers. Gently spread it using the wooden spoon or a knife to cover all the crackers.
- Bake the toffee: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 6 minutes. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel layer. Let them sit for 3-4 minutes to melt.
- Spread chocolate and add toppings: Once the chocolate chips have melted, spread the melted chocolate evenly over the crackers. Sprinkle the chopped pecans, walnuts, M&M’s, or Christmas sprinkles on top while the chocolate is still soft.
- Set and serve: Allow the Christmas Crack to cool and set at room temperature for 1-2 hours. To speed up the process, place it in the refrigerator or freezer. Once set, cut into pieces and enjoy!
Notes
- Use salted or unsalted butter depending on your taste preference.
- You can substitute walnuts or other nuts for pecans, or use colorful M&M’s for a festive look.
- Make sure to spread the caramel mixture quickly before it hardens.
- Allow the chocolate to fully melt before spreading for a smooth topping.
- Store the Christmas Crack in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
