Description
Christmas Crack is a simple, addictive holiday treat made with a crispy cracker base, a caramel layer, and a chocolate topping. Perfect for gifting or snacking, it’s a festive favorite that’s easy to make!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 40 saltine crackers (approximately one sleeve)
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar
- 2 cups (350 g) semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crushed candy canes (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch (or similar) baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, ensuring the edges are covered. Lightly grease the lining for easy removal.
- Layer the crackers:
- Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, covering the entire surface. Set aside.
- Make the caramel:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and becomes caramel-like.
- Pour the caramel:
- Carefully pour the hot caramel over the crackers, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover all the crackers.
- Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes. The caramel will bubble but shouldn’t burn—watch it closely!
- Add the chocolate:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the caramel layer. Let them sit for 2-3 minutes until they soften, then spread the melted chocolate over the caramel with a spatula.
- Top and chill:
- Sprinkle nuts, sprinkles, or crushed candy canes over the chocolate layer while it’s still soft.
- Refrigerate or freeze the tray for at least 1 hour, or until completely set.
- Break into pieces:
- Once hardened, break the Christmas Crack into irregular pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
Notes
- Substitute saltines with Ritz crackers or graham crackers for a different flavor.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top for a salty-sweet twist.