This Christmas Crack recipe is a must-try for the holiday season because it’s fast, easy, and incredibly satisfying. With only a few basic ingredients and no fancy equipment, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes. The contrast of crunchy crackers, buttery caramel, and melted chocolate creates a texture and flavor combination that everyone loves. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Saltine crackers
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional toppings: crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, holiday sprinkles, or sea salt
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Lay saltine crackers in a single layer to completely cover the baking sheet.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Bring to a boil, then let it bubble for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened.
Pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the crackers, spreading with a spatula to cover them completely.
Bake for 5 minutes, or until the toffee is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Let sit for a few minutes until melted, then spread evenly with a spatula.
Add desired toppings while the chocolate is still soft.
Let the Christmas Crack cool completely at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator until set.
Once firm, break into pieces and serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24 servings. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Cooling time: 30 minutes Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
Use different crackers: Try graham crackers or Ritz for a slightly different base and flavor.
Change the chocolate: Milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even dark chocolate can be used in place of semi-sweet chips.
Add toppings: Get creative with chopped pretzels, mini marshmallows, toffee bits, or dried cranberries.
Make it festive: Sprinkle with crushed peppermint or red and green holiday candies for a seasonal look.
Storage/Reheating
Store Christmas Crack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To freeze, place pieces in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. No reheating is necessary—just thaw and enjoy!
FAQs
What type of crackers work best for Christmas Crack?
Saltine crackers are traditional and offer the perfect balance of salty and crispy. However, graham crackers or buttery Ritz crackers also work well.
Can I make Christmas Crack without brown sugar?
Brown sugar is key for creating the caramel-like toffee layer. If needed, you can substitute with white sugar and a bit of molasses.
Why did my toffee layer turn grainy?
This can happen if the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved or if the toffee wasn’t boiled long enough. Make sure to boil the sugar and butter mixture for at least 3–4 minutes.
Can I make Christmas Crack dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter and vegan chocolate chips to make a dairy-free version of this treat.
How do I prevent the chocolate from separating or becoming dull?
Make sure not to overheat the chocolate. Let it melt naturally over the hot toffee layer and spread gently.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a larger baking sheet or make two separate batches to ensure even layers.
What’s the best way to break Christmas Crack into pieces?
Once fully set, use your hands or a sharp knife to snap it into rustic, uneven pieces.
How long does Christmas Crack need to cool before breaking?
It typically needs at least 30 minutes to cool and set, or you can chill it in the fridge to speed up the process.
Can I add peanut butter to Christmas Crack?
Yes, you can swirl peanut butter into the melted chocolate layer for an extra-rich twist.
Why is it called “Christmas Crack”?
It gets its name from both its crunchy texture and its irresistible taste—once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more.
Conclusion
Christmas Crack is the ultimate no-fuss, high-reward holiday treat. With its irresistible combination of salty, sweet, and crunchy, it’s sure to become a favorite on your holiday dessert table. Whether you’re making it for a party, as a gift, or just because, this recipe is guaranteed to spread some festive cheer
Christmas Crack is a simple, addictive holiday treat made with layers of saltine crackers, buttery toffee, and melted chocolate. It’s perfect for parties, gifting, or festive snacking.
Ingredients
40 saltine crackers (enough to cover a standard baking sheet)
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Arrange saltine crackers in a single layer to fully cover the baking sheet.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar together. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and let it bubble for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Pour the hot toffee mixture over the crackers and spread evenly with a spatula.
Bake for 5 minutes, or until the toffee is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Let sit for a few minutes until melted, then spread evenly.
Add desired toppings while chocolate is still soft.
Cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate until set.
Break into pieces once firm and serve.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.To freeze, layer pieces with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.Try different cracker bases like graham crackers or Ritz for variety.Add peanut butter for a richer twist by swirling it into the melted chocolate layer.Make dairy-free by using vegan butter and chocolate chips.
