The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Christmas Crack, also known as Saltine Toffee, is a highly addictive, sweet-and-salty holiday treat. It’s super easy to make, requires only a few ingredients, and is perfect for gift-giving or sharing with loved ones. The combination of crispy saltine crackers, buttery toffee, and rich chocolate creates a delightful treat that everyone will love. Here’s everything you need to make the perfect Christmas Crack.
Ingredients
For a standard-sized batch, gather the following ingredients:
- 40 saltine crackers (approximately one sleeve)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark chocolate for best results)
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or sea salt
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a batch of Christmas Crack:
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it lightly with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Arrange the Crackers
- Lay out the saltine crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet, covering as much of the surface as possible. It’s okay if some overlap slightly.
Step 3: Make the Toffee
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for 3-5 minutes until it thickens, becomes smooth, and reaches a caramel consistency.
Step 4: Pour the Toffee Over the Crackers
- Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the saltine crackers, using a spatula to spread it as needed to cover all the crackers.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes until the toffee is bubbly.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate Layer
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot toffee layer. Let them sit for about 1-2 minutes to soften.
- Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the toffee layer.
Step 7: Add Toppings (Optional)
- While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle any desired toppings, like chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, or a sprinkle of sea salt, over the top.
Step 8: Chill and Break Into Pieces
- Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator or freezer to chill for at least 1-2 hours until the chocolate is firm.
- Once set, break the Christmas Crack into bite-sized pieces and store them in an airtight container.
Christmas Crack: The Ultimate Holiday Treat
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Saltine crackers | 1 sleeve (about 35 crackers) |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 2 cups |
| Toppings (optional) | Crushed nuts, sprinkles, sea salt |
Instructions
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan | Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with non-stick spray. |
| 2. Arrange Crackers | Place saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. |
| 3. Make Caramel | In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring until it begins to bubble. |
| 4. Pour Caramel Over Crackers | Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture over the crackers, spreading it evenly. |
| 5. Bake | Bake for 5-7 minutes until caramel is bubbly. |
| 6. Add Chocolate | Remove from oven, sprinkle chocolate chips on top, and let them sit until melted, then spread evenly. |
| 7. Add Toppings (Optional) | Add desired toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt for extra flavor and texture. |
| 8. Chill and Break | Chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, then break into pieces and serve. |
Tips and Tricks
- For extra crunch: Use graham crackers instead of saltines for a slightly different texture and flavor.
- For easy cleanup: Use parchment paper instead of foil to prevent sticking.
- To add festive colors: Sprinkle crushed red and green candies or festive sprinkles on top before the chocolate sets.
| Recipe Details | Christmas Crack: The Ultimate Holiday Treat |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 5-7 minutes |
| Chill Time | 1-2 hours |
| Total Time | Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Servings | About 40 pieces |
| Storage | Up to 1 week at room temperature, or 3 months in the freezer |
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
If you’re looking to get a head start on your holiday baking, Christmas Crack is perfect. This sweet and salty treat can be made up to 5 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for a convenient holiday option.
When you’re ready, break the chilled Christmas Crack into pieces. Enjoy them. You can also freeze it for 1-2 months. Place the pieces in a freezer-safe container, making sure they don’t stick together. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Christmas Crack is easy to make ahead, saving you time during the holiday rush. Its sweet and salty mix makes it a hit with everyone.
Proper storage keeps your Christmas Crack fresh and tasty. Follow these tips to enjoy this treat without the stress of last-minute prep.
Presentation and Serving Ideas
Christmas crack is a treat that’s both tasty and beautiful. It’s perfect for any holiday table. You can present it in many fun ways.
Festive Toppings and Garnishes
Make your Christmas crack stand out with colorful toppings. Crushed candy canes add a peppermint flavor. Holiday sprinkles bring a playful vibe. Chopped nuts add crunch, and powdered sugar makes it look like snow.
For a fancy touch, try drizzling it with white chocolate or caramel. These toppings not only look great but also taste amazing.
| Topping | Quantity | Impact on Presentation |
|---|---|---|
| Crushed candy canes | 1/2 cup | Adds a festive peppermint twist and a pop of color |
| Holiday sprinkles | 1/4 cup | Brings a fun and playful element to the display |
| Chopped pecans | 1/3 cup | Provides a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance |
| Powdered sugar | 2 tablespoons | Gives the candy a snowy, winter-wonderland appearance |
| Melted white chocolate | 1/4 cup | Adds a luxurious and indulgent element to the presentation |
With these toppings, your Christmas crack will be a hit. It’ll be the star of your holiday feast.
Flavor Variations
The classic Christmas crack recipe is a true delight. But, you can customize the flavors to your liking. Try different chocolates like dark, milk, or white. Swap the saltine crackers for Ritz, graham, or pretzels for a unique twist.
Don’t be afraid to add tasty toppings. Chopped nuts, shredded coconut, crushed candy canes, or festive sprinkles can make it even better.
Chocolate Options
- Milk Chocolate
- Dark Chocolate
- White Chocolate
Cracker Alternatives
- Ritz Crackers
- Graham Crackers
- Pretzels
Tasty Toppings
- Chopped Nuts
- Shredded Coconut
- Crushed Candy Canes
- Festive Sprinkles
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saltine Crackers | 40 crackers | 160 kcal | 22g | 3g | 5g | 320mg |
| Butter | 1 cup | 810 kcal | 0g | 0g | 92g | 610mg |
| Brown Sugar | 1 cup | 880 kcal | 232g | 0g | 0g | 10mg |
| Chocolate Chips | 2 cups | 1,200 kcal | 144g | 16g | 72g | 200mg |
The classic Christmas crack recipe is a beloved holiday treat. But, with a little creativity, you can explore a world of flavor variations. From chocolate types to cracker substitutes and tasty toppings, the possibilities are endless. Experiment and find your own unique twist on this delightfully addictive confection.
Christmas Crack for Gift-Giving
This christmas crack is a great homemade gift for the holidays. You can put it in a festive tin, box, or bag. It’s sure to make friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers happy. It’s easy to make and lasts a long time, making it perfect for holiday treats to give and homemade candy gifts.
The christmas crack recipe started on Deadster in 2008 and became popular in 2020. It’s made with saltine crackers, toffee, and chocolate for a sweet and salty taste. You only need a few ingredients, making it easy to prepare and package.
- Follow the standard recipe for christmas crack. You’ll need saltine crackers, brown sugar, salted butter, chocolate chips, and optional pecans.
- Once the toffee-coated crackers cool and the chocolate sets, break the christmas crack into pieces or squares.
- Put the christmas crack in festive tins, boxes, or bags. Add toppings like crushed candy canes or Christmas sprinkles for a personal touch.
Christmas crack can be made in different ways. Try using different crackers, chocolate, or toppings. You can even add toasted almonds or walnuts for a gourmet touch.
Christmas crack is a delicious and easy gift for the holidays. Get your ingredients ready, be creative with the packaging, and share this tasty holiday treat with your loved ones.
Pairing Suggestions
Christmas crack is perfect with holiday favorites. Enjoy it with hot cocoa, mulled wine, or eggnog for a cozy treat. It also goes well with Christmas cookies, pies, and desserts on a holiday platter. Try arranging it with homemade candies, nuts, and dried fruits for a festive look.
The buttery toffee and smooth chocolate of Christmas crack pair well with warm drinks. It’s great with hot chocolate or mulled wine. The sweet-and-salty flavors also match the creamy taste of eggnog. Serve it with classic Christmas cookies and other festive sweets for a delightful spread.
Present the Christmas crack with homemade candies, roasted nuts, and dried fruit for a stunning display. The colorful toppings of the crack add to the holiday feel. This way, you can enjoy Christmas crack as a treat on its own or as part of a bigger dessert table.
FAQ
What is Christmas Crack?
Christmas Crack, also known as saltine cracker toffee, is a sweet and salty treat. It’s made by covering saltine crackers with a homemade toffee mixture. Then, it’s baked and topped with melted chocolate.
What ingredients are needed to make Christmas Crack?
You’ll need saltine crackers, unsalted butter, brown sugar, and semi-sweet chocolate chips to make Christmas Crack.
How do you make Christmas Crack?
Start by arranging saltine crackers on a baking sheet. Next, melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan and boil for 3 minutes. Pour the hot toffee over the crackers and bake briefly.
Then, sprinkle chocolate chips over the top. Let them melt and spread the chocolate evenly.
What tips should I follow to ensure perfect Christmas Crack?
Watch the toffee mixture carefully to avoid burning. Use high-quality chocolate chips for a smooth, rich layer.
How can I store and make Christmas Crack ahead of time?
You can make Christmas Crack up to 5 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze it in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
How can I present and serve Christmas Crack?
Break the candy into pieces and arrange them on a platter or in a gift box. Add toppings like crushed candy canes or sprinkles for a festive look.
Can I customize the flavors of Christmas Crack?
Yes, you can customize Christmas Crack. Try different chocolates or use different crackers like Ritz or graham crackers. Add fun toppings like nuts or sprinkles.
Can I give Christmas Crack as a holiday gift?
Yes, Christmas Crack makes a great homemade gift. Package it in a festive tin or box for a delightful treat.
What are some good pairings for Christmas Crack?
Christmas Crack goes well with hot cocoa, mulled wine, or eggnog. It also pairs well with other holiday desserts.
