Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just five simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Sweet and Salty Delight: The combination of buttery toffee, crisp crackers, and chocolate creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Festive Appearance: Topped with colorful M&M candies, this treat adds a cheerful touch to any holiday dessert table.
- Perfect for Gifting: Package these treats in decorative tins or bags for a homemade gift that everyone will appreciate.
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 chocolate chips
- M&M candies
Directions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange a single layer of saltine crackers to cover the entire surface.
- Make the Toffee: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring until the mixture comes to a boil. Let it boil for a few minutes until it thickens and becomes a rich caramel color.
- Assemble: Pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the layer of crackers, spreading it gently to cover all the crackers.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven and bake for a few minutes until the toffee becomes bubbly.
- Add Chocolate: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Allow them to sit for a couple of minutes to melt, then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the toffee layer.
- Decorate: While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle M&M candies on top, pressing them lightly into the chocolate.
- Cool and Break: Let the candy cool completely at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator to set faster. Once fully set, break it into pieces and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 20 pieces
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1-2 hours
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds over the melted chocolate for added crunch and flavor.
- Different Chocolates: Experiment with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or a combination to suit your taste preferences.
- Festive Toppings: Use seasonal sprinkles or colored candies to match different holidays or occasions.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the Christmas Crack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For extended freshness, keep it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Freezing: Place the pieces in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months.
- Reheating: This treat is best enjoyed at room temperature. If frozen, allow it to thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
What type of crackers should I use for Christmas Crack?
Use plain saltine crackers as they provide the ideal salty base that complements the sweet toffee and chocolate layers.
Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe?
For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to use unsalted butter. Margarine may not yield the same rich taste and could affect the toffee’s consistency.
How do I prevent the toffee layer from becoming grainy?
Ensure that the butter and brown sugar are fully melted and combined before bringing the mixture to a boil. Stirring constantly and allowing it to boil without interruption helps achieve a smooth toffee.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the candy to set?
While not mandatory, refrigerating the candy speeds up the setting process and can make it easier to break into pieces.
Can I add sea salt on top for a salted caramel flavor?
Yes, sprinkling a light touch of sea salt over the melted chocolate before it sets can enhance the sweet and salty contrast.
What if my chocolate chips don’t melt completely?
If the chocolate chips don’t melt from the residual heat, you can place the baking sheet back in the warm oven for a minute to help them soften, then spread evenly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting regular saltine crackers with gluten-free crackers, you can adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet.
How do I store Christmas Crack to keep it crispy?
Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature, and avoid exposure to humidity to maintain its crisp texture.
Can I use other types of sugar for the toffee layer?
Light or dark brown sugar is recommended for its molasses content, which contributes to the toffee’s flavor and color. Substit
Homemade Christmas Candy and Treats
- Total Time: 1-2 hours (including cooling time)
- Yield: Approximately 20 pieces
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Christmas Crack, also known as saltine cracker toffee, is a quick and easy holiday treat that combines sweet toffee, smooth chocolate, and a salty cracker base, topped with festive M&M candies. Perfect for gifting or holiday parties, this crowd-pleaser will become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Saltine crackers
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup M&M candies
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and cover it with a single layer of saltine crackers.
- Make Toffee: Melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until boiling, then let boil for 3-4 minutes until thick and caramel-colored.
- Assemble: Pour toffee over crackers, spreading evenly.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until bubbly.
- Add Chocolate: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let melt for 2 minutes, then spread evenly.
- Decorate: Add M&M candies, pressing lightly into the chocolate.
- Cool: Allow to cool completely or refrigerate until set. Break into pieces and serve.
Notes
- Use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a salted caramel twist.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
