This salty-sweet cracker toffee is simple, fast, and addictive. With just a few pantry ingredients you get a crunchy toffee base, a glossy chocolate top, and endless toppings — perfect for gift plates or holiday snacking. Read on for an easy method, storage tips, and a few ideas to change it up. For other holiday treats, check out this no-bake cherry cheesecake bars recipe for another easy dessert idea.
Why this crunchy candy is a holiday must-have
Christmas Crack is popular because it’s fast, crowd-pleasing, and very forgiving. You can make a big pan in under 30 minutes, customize the toppings, and it stores well. It’s also an easy thing to bring to parties or wrap in tins for neighbors. If you like tips on timing and prep, see these useful recipe tips.
How to make Christmas Crack step by step
Ingredients:
- Saltine crackers (about 40–50 to cover a baking sheet)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
- Nuts, chopped (optional)
- Crushed candy canes (optional)
- Sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer, edges touching.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil. Let it boil for about 1 minute while stirring.
- Pour the bubbling butter-sugar mixture evenly over the saltines, using a spatula to spread if needed.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5–7 minutes, until the toffee is bubbly and set.
- Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee. Let them sit for a few minutes until they melt.
- Spread the melted chocolate smoothly over the toffee with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- While the chocolate is still soft, add chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, or a light sprinkle of sea salt if you like.
- Let the sheet cool completely at room temperature, then break into pieces.
Best ways to serve your homemade crackers
Break the cooled toffee into bite-size pieces and arrange on a platter or place in paper cupcake liners. It’s great on dessert tables, in gift tins, or as a stocking stuffer. For a party, mix plain pieces with nut and peppermint-topped pieces so guests can pick their favorite.
How to store Christmas Crack so it stays crisp
Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Layer with parchment paper so pieces don’t stick. Properly stored, it keeps for about 1–2 weeks. If your kitchen is warm, keep it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but let it come to room temperature before serving so the chocolate isn’t too hard.
Small tricks that make a big difference
- Use a rimmed baking sheet and foil for easy cleanup.
- Arrange crackers close together so toffee seals the gaps.
- Stir the butter and sugar until it reaches a full boil for a proper toffee texture.
- Allow the chocolate to melt from the residual heat rather than reheating.
- Try different chocolates: dark for intense flavor, milk for sweetness.
- For flavor pairing ideas with bolder desserts, you might enjoy the festive takes in this Christmas berry crumble cheesecake article.
Fun ways to change the recipe
- Salted Almond: Sprinkle toasted almonds and flaky sea salt.
- Peppermint Twist: Add crushed candy canes on top for a minty crunch.
- Peanut Butter: Swirl warm peanut butter into the melted chocolate before it sets.
- White Chocolate & Cranberry: Use white chocolate chips and top with dried cranberries for a bright look.
Quick nutrition snapshot (estimate)
Per 1-ounce piece (about 28 g):
- Calories: ~150–180
- Fat: 9–11 g
- Carbs: 15–18 g
- Sugar: 9–12 g
- Values vary by portion size and exact ingredients.
Serving ideas your family will love
- Pack a small bag for school lunches as an occasional treat.
- Add a few pieces to a holiday movie-night snack tray.
- Include in homemade gift boxes with cookies, nuts, and candies.
Tasty pairings: what to serve with Christmas Crack
This candy pairs well with:
- Hot chocolate or coffee to balance the sweetness.
- A glass of low-acid red wine or port for adults.
- Cheeses like mild cheddar for a salty-sweet board contrast.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I use a different cracker if I don’t have saltines?
A: Yes — some use graham crackers, but the thin crisp of saltines gives the classic result.
Q: My toffee got soft after cooling. What went wrong?
A: It may not have boiled long enough. Make sure the butter and sugar mixture reaches a full boil and cook for about one minute while stirring.
Q: Can I melt the chocolate in the microwave instead?
A: Yes. If you prefer, remove the pan and microwave chocolate chips in 15-second bursts, stirring between bursts until smooth, then spread.
Q: How do I prevent sticking to the foil?
A: Use nonstick foil or line with parchment. Let the candy cool fully before breaking to reduce sticking.
Conclusion
This simple Christmas Crack recipe is a fast, crowd-pleasing holiday treat you can customize easily. For more recipe takes and step-by-step photos, check these trusted versions: The BEST Christmas Crack Recipe (Saltine Cracker Toffee) – Mom on Timeout, Christmas Cracker Candy Recipe – Simply Recipes, and BEST Christmas Crack Recipe – I Heart Naptime. Enjoy making and sharing this crunchy holiday favorite!
Christmas Crack
Ingredients
Cracker Toffee Base
- 40-50 crackers Saltine crackers To cover a baking sheet
- 1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
Topping Options
- 1.5-2 cups chocolate chips Semi-sweet or milk
- Nuts, chopped Optional
- Crushed candy canes Optional
- Sea salt For sprinkling, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer, edges touching.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil. Let it boil for about 1 minute while stirring.
- Pour the bubbling butter-sugar mixture evenly over the saltines, using a spatula to spread if needed.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5–7 minutes, until the toffee is bubbly and set.
- Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee. Let them sit for a few minutes until they melt.
- Spread the melted chocolate smoothly over the toffee with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- While the chocolate is still soft, add chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, or a light sprinkle of sea salt if you like.
- Let the sheet cool completely at room temperature, then break into pieces.
