Easter crack candy is a festive, addictive treat made with layers of buttery toffee, saltine crackers, melted chocolate, and colorful Easter toppings. It’s the perfect sweet snack to share with family and friends during the holiday, and it’s as easy to make as it is fun to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easter crack candy is quick to prepare, wildly delicious, and endlessly customizable. The combination of salty crackers, rich toffee, and smooth chocolate creates an irresistible base for all your favorite Easter candies and sprinkles. It’s perfect for gifting, potlucks, or just filling your Easter dessert tray with something unique and crunchy.
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 or milk chocolate chips
- Easter-themed sprinkles or pastel-colored candy (like mini eggs or M&M’s)
- Optional toppings: white chocolate drizzle, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes
directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it.
- Arrange saltine crackers in a single layer to cover the baking sheet completely.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar together. Bring to a boil and let it bubble for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour the toffee mixture evenly over the crackers and spread with a spatula to cover.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let sit for 1–2 minutes until softened, then spread evenly.
- Top with Easter candies, sprinkles, and any additional toppings while the chocolate is still soft.
- Let the candy cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate until firm.
- Once set, break into pieces and serve or store.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20–24 pieces.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- White chocolate base: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter version.
- Double layer: Add a swirl of white and milk chocolate together for a marbled effect.
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans, almonds, or pistachios on top.
- Tropical twist: Add dried fruit bits and coconut flakes for a fruity finish.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free crackers as the base.
storage/reheating
Store Easter crack candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
For longer storage, freeze the candy in a sealed bag or container for up to 1 month.
No reheating is necessary. Allow frozen pieces to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
Why is it called crack candy?
It’s named for its crunchy texture and addictively good taste—not for any illegal ingredient.
Can I use graham crackers instead of saltines?
Yes, graham crackers will add a slightly sweeter, softer base.
What kind of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet, milk, or white chocolate chips all work—choose based on your preferred sweetness.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.
How do I keep the chocolate layer from separating?
Make sure to spread the chocolate while the toffee is still warm and allow it to cool completely before breaking.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Yes! Kids can help decorate with sprinkles and candy once the chocolate layer is spread.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
No. Just bring the butter and sugar to a bubbling boil for 3–4 minutes—no thermometer needed.
Why is my toffee grainy?
The sugar may not have fully dissolved. Stir constantly while boiling the butter-sugar mixture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Is this good for Easter baskets?
Definitely! Wrap pieces in parchment and place them in bags or boxes for easy, festive gifts.
Conclusion
Easter crack candy is a festive, colorful, and crave-worthy treat that’s simple to make and fun to share. With its sweet-salty layers and endless topping options, it’s sure to become a new springtime tradition. Whether you’re making it for a party or gifting it to loved ones, this holiday favorite is guaranteed to disappear fast.
Print
Easter Crack Candy
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Easter Crack Candy is a fun, colorful, and super easy treat made with saltine crackers, toffee, chocolate, and festive sprinkles or candy. It’s a sweet-and-salty dessert that’s perfect for spring parties, Easter baskets, or as a make-ahead holiday snack.
Ingredients
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40 saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
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1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
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1 cup light brown sugar, packed
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2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1/2 cup pastel M&M’s (or other Easter candy)
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1/4 cup pastel sprinkles
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
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Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the foil-lined pan.
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In a small saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Bring to a boil and let it boil for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
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Pour the toffee mixture evenly over the saltines, spreading it to cover all the crackers.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes, until the toffee is bubbly.
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Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the toffee. Let sit for 2–3 minutes until the chocolate begins to melt, then spread evenly with a spatula.
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Top with M&M’s and sprinkles while the chocolate is still warm.
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Let cool to room temperature, then transfer to the fridge or freezer to harden completely.
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Once set, break into pieces and enjoy!
Notes
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Use graham crackers or pretzels as a fun swap for saltines.
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
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Add chopped nuts or mini marshmallows for extra flavor and texture.