Christmas Crack Recipe

Introduction

Christmas Crack is a delightfully addictive treat that combines salty crackers with a buttery caramel layer and a rich chocolate topping. Topped with colorful M&M’s and crunchy pecans, it’s a perfect festive snack that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

• 35 saltines (about 1 sleeve)
• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup milk chocolate chips
• Toppings: M&M’s and pecans

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet.
3. Step 3: In a large saucepan, bring the butter and brown sugar to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Immediately pour the mixture evenly over the crackers.
5. Step 5: Bake for 5 minutes, then carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle semisweet and milk chocolate chips evenly over the crackers. Let them sit for 5 minutes, then spread the melted chocolate with an offset spatula. Top with M&M’s and pecans, pressing them lightly into the chocolate.
7. Step 7: Let the crackers cool slightly, then transfer to the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until the chocolate and caramel have hardened. Break into pieces and serve.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, substitute pecans with toasted coconut flakes or sprinkles.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor or peanut butter chips for a fun twist.
• Be sure to watch the caramel carefully while boiling to avoid burning.

Storage

Store Christmas Crack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy, bring to room temperature or reheat briefly to soften the chocolate before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cracker?

Saltines work best for their salty crunch and flat surface, but you can try other sturdy crackers like water crackers if preferred.

What if my chocolate doesn’t melt properly?

Make sure to let the warm caramel mixture soften the chocolate chips on the hot crackers before spreading. If needed, you can briefly place the tray back in the warm oven for a minute or two to soften.

Christmas Crack Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 66 reviews

Christmas Crack is a deliciously addictive holiday treat featuring a crispy saltine cracker base topped with a buttery caramel layer and melted chocolate, finished with festive toppings like M&M’s and pecans. This easy-to-make candy combines sweet, salty, and crunchy elements for a perfect seasonal dessert or gift.

• Author: zara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: About 48 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 35 saltines (about 1 sleeve)

Caramel Topping

• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Topping

• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup milk chocolate chips

Additional Toppings

• M&M’s candies
• Pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange Crackers: Place the 35 saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they cover the surface evenly.
3. Make Caramel Sauce: In a large saucepan, bring 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of packed light brown sugar to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally to create a smooth caramel.
4. Add Vanilla and Coat Crackers: Remove the caramel from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Immediately pour the caramel evenly over the saltine crackers, spreading to coat all crackers completely.
5. Bake the Caramel Layer: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5 minutes to allow the caramel to set on the crackers.
6. Apply Chocolate Layer: Carefully remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips and 3/4 cup milk chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel layer. Let them sit for 5 minutes to melt.
7. Spread Melted Chocolate and Add Toppings: Using an offset spatula, spread the melted chocolate evenly across the caramel. Immediately sprinkle M&M’s candies and chopped pecans on top, gently pressing them into the chocolate so they stick.
8. Cool and Set: Allow the pan to cool slightly at room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until the candy hardens completely.
9. Serve: Once firm, break the Christmas Crack into pieces. Serve and enjoy this sweet, salty, and crunchy holiday treat!

Notes

• Use an offset spatula to smoothly spread the melted chocolate without breaking the crackers.
• You can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or add colorful sprinkles for extra festive flair.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the candy crisp.
• If you prefer a thicker caramel layer, slightly increase the butter and brown sugar, but keep cooking time the same.
• Be cautious when handling the hot caramel to avoid burns.

Keywords: Christmas Crack, Holiday Candy, Saltine Toffee, Caramel Candy, Easy Holiday Treat