Christmas Crack is the sweetest little treat that’s perfect for the holiday season! It’s basically a crunchy, buttery cracker base covered in a rich layer of melted caramel and topped with a generous sprinkle of crunchy chocolate chips. When the chocolate melts and hardens, it creates this super tasty, crackly texture that everyone loves.
I always make a big batch of Christmas Crack because it’s so easy and everyone can’t stop sneaking pieces from the plate. I like to use saltines for the base because the salty crunch balances out the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate so well. A little sprinkle of sea salt on top just finishes it off perfectly!
For me, Christmas Crack is one of those treats that instantly brings back cozy memories of holiday baking with family and friends. It’s fun to make because it doesn’t take long, and it’s great to share at parties, gift in little containers, or just keep on hand for snacking during the busy winter days. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Saltine Crackers: These are the crunchy base of Christmas Crack. Their saltiness balances the sweet caramel and chocolate really well. If you can’t find saltines, try soda crackers or water crackers for a similar crunch.
Butter and Brown Sugar: Butter adds richness while brown sugar gives depth and that classic caramel flavor. Unsalted butter lets you control saltiness, but salted is fine if that’s what you have.
Chocolate Chips: I prefer semi-sweet chocolate chips to add just the right amount of sweetness. You can swap them for milk or dark chocolate chips depending on your taste.
Festive Toppings: Red and green candy-coated chocolates, crushed peppermint candies, and sprinkles make this treat look special and add texture. You can customize with nuts, shredded coconut, or white chocolate chips.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Smooth Caramel Layer?
Making the caramel is the key step and it’s easier than it seems if you watch carefully.
- Use a medium saucepan and melt butter and brown sugar together over medium heat.
- Stir constantly so the sugar doesn’t burn or stick to the pan.
- Once it boils, let it cook without stirring for 3 minutes—it will thicken and turn a rich golden color.
- Pour immediately over the crackers so it spreads evenly and covers them before it cools too much.
- Baking it for 5 minutes helps the caramel soak into the crackers and get that perfect chewy, crackly texture.
Following these tips helps you get a smooth, delicious caramel topping every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 12×17-inch rimmed baking sheet – I like this size because it gives enough space for spreading and breaking into pieces easily.
- Parchment paper or foil – makes cleanup simple and prevents sticking.
- Medium saucepan – to melt butter and brown sugar smoothly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring the caramel mixture without scratching the pan.
- Offset spatula or butter knife – to spread melting chocolate evenly over the caramel layer.
- Cooling area (counter or fridge) – for the toffee to set properly before breaking into pieces.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your preference for richer or creamier flavor.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
- Mix in dried fruits such as cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a tangy twist.
- Use peppermint extract in the caramel mixture for a minty flavor, or sprinkle with extra crushed candies for more festive color and taste.
How to Make Christmas Crack (Saltine Cracker Toffee)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Base:
- 40 saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
For The Caramel:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
For The Topping:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup red and green candy-coated chocolates (like M&Ms)
- ¼ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- ¼ cup holiday-themed sprinkles (red, green, and white)
- Optional: sea salt for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and bake, plus about 30 to 60 minutes for the Christmas Crack to cool and set properly before serving or packaging.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cracker Base:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12×17-inch rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single, slightly overlapping layer so they cover the entire bottom of the baking sheet.
2. Make the Caramel Layer:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the brown sugar. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, let it cook without stirring for about 3 minutes until it thickens slightly and turns caramel-colored.
3. Spread Caramel on Crackers and Bake:
Pour the hot caramel evenly over the saltine crackers, spreading to cover all crackers. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5 minutes to allow the caramel to bubble and soak into the crackers.
4. Add Chocolate and Toppings:
Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel layer. Let them sit for 5 minutes so the chips soften and melt. Then, use an offset spatula or butter knife to spread the melted chocolate evenly.
5. Decorate and Cool:
Quickly sprinkle the candy-coated chocolates, crushed candy canes, and holiday sprinkles over the warm chocolate. Optionally, sprinkle a little sea salt on top to balance the sweetness.
Let the pan cool at room temperature for about an hour, or place it in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes until the Christmas Crack is fully set.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once set, break the Christmas Crack into pieces with your hands or a knife. Serve immediately or package in festive containers to gift to friends and family.
Can I Use Different Crackers Instead of Saltines?
Yes! While saltine crackers provide the perfect salty crunch, you can substitute with soda crackers or water crackers if needed. Just be aware the flavor and texture might vary slightly.
How Should I Store Christmas Crack?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Christmas Crack is great for making ahead. Prepare and set it, then wrap tightly and store for several days. It also makes a great homemade gift!
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips?
You can swap semi-sweet chips with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips depending on your taste preference. Just use the same quantity and melt similarly.
