Description
Christmas Crack is a delightful holiday toffee featuring a crispy saltine cracker base topped with a buttery brown sugar toffee layer, melted semisweet chocolate, and festive crushed peppermint candies. This easy-to-make dessert combines sweet, salty, and chocolaty flavors perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Layer
- 40 saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
Toffee Layer
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
Topping
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- Holiday sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Base: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single, edge-to-edge layer on the baking sheet to create an even base.
- Make Toffee Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and brown sugar together. Stir constantly to prevent burning until the mixture begins to boil. Allow it to boil without stirring for exactly 3 minutes to develop the toffee flavor.
- Pour and Bake Toffee: Immediately pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the saltine crackers, using a spatula to spread it across. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes, until the toffee layer is bubbling and fully set.
- Add Chocolate Topping: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee layer. Let them sit for about 2 minutes to soften and melt.
- Spread Chocolate and Add Toppings: Using a spatula, spread the melted chocolate over the toffee to form a smooth layer. While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies, holiday sprinkles, or chopped nuts evenly on top for added flavor and festive appearance.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the Christmas Crack to cool at room temperature or refrigerate until fully hardened, which helps it set properly. Once firm, break into about 40 pieces. Store the pieces in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute graham crackers for saltines to create a sweeter base.
- White chocolate chips can be used instead of semisweet chocolate chips, or mix both for a marbled effect.
- For best texture and to avoid melting, store Christmas Crack in a cool, dry place.
- The toffee texture relies on boiling the mixture for exactly 3 minutes—do not skip this step for ideal crunch.
