Christmas Crack is the ultimate holiday treat — a salty-sweet, crunchy, chewy candy made from just 5 simple ingredients. It’s one of those magic recipes that comes together in 15 minutes, disappears even faster, and becomes the most requested dessert at every Christmas party.
Whether you know it as saltine toffee, cracker candy, or simply “that addictive holiday bark,” one thing’s for sure — Christmas Crack is a crowd-pleaser you’ll make year after year.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🎄 Easy holiday candy with no fancy tools required
- 🧂 Perfect sweet-and-salty combo from saltine crackers and rich toffee
- 🍫 Customizable toppings like pretzels, M&Ms, or peppermint
- ⏱️ 15-minute prep and no candy-making experience needed
- ❄️ Freezes beautifully for make-ahead gifting
This recipe is festive, foolproof, and totally irresistible.
Ingredients
You only need five pantry staples to make a batch of Christmas Crack:
- 35–40 saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1½ cups chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1½ cups toppings of choice (crushed candy canes, nuts, pretzels, etc.)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a 15×10-inch baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Arrange saltines in a single layer, covering the bottom of the pan.
- Make the toffee: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil for 2–3 minutes until thick and bubbly.
- Pour toffee over the crackers and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 5 minutes, or until bubbly and set. Remove from oven.
- Melt chocolate: Either melt chocolate chips in the microwave and spread over toffee, or sprinkle them directly on top of the hot toffee, let sit for a minute, then spread.
- Add toppings and gently press them into the chocolate with a spatula.
- Cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.
- Cut or break into pieces, then serve or store.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Skill Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 373
- Carbs: 36g
- Fat: 25g
- Sugar: 26g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 275mg
Topping Ideas & Variations
🎨 Topping Suggestions:
- Crushed candy canes
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- M&Ms or mini peanut butter cups
- Pretzels or toffee bits
- Toasted coconut
- Sea salt or white chocolate drizzle
🔁 Variations:
- Use graham crackers or Ritz instead of saltines
- Add a layer of peanut butter between the crackers and toffee
- Swap chocolate for white or dark chocolate blends
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container up to 1 week
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for 10+ days
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Just layer between parchment to prevent sticking.
FAQs
Why is it called “Christmas Crack”?
Because it’s incredibly addictive! This salty-sweet treat is a holiday favorite that disappears fast — like, dangerously fast.
What can I use instead of saltines?
Try graham crackers, matzo, or even buttery club crackers for a fun twist.
Why is my toffee separating or grainy?
Be sure to boil the butter and sugar mixture steadily for 2–3 minutes. Don’t over-stir once boiling, and avoid overcooking.
How do I keep it from sticking to foil?
Use parchment paper or a silicone mat for best results. Greasing foil also helps.
Christmas Crack (Saltine Toffee Candy)
Equipment
- – Sheet pan
- – Saucepan
- Spatula
- – Parchment paper or foil
Ingredients
- – 35–40 saltine crackers
- – 1 cup butter 2 sticks
- – 1 cup brown sugar packed
- – 1½ cups chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- – 1½ cups toppings candy canes, nuts, pretzels, etc.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
- Arrange saltines in a single layer.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar. Boil 2–3 minutes.
- Pour over crackers and spread evenly.
- Bake for 5 minutes, then remove.
- Melt and spread chocolate, or sprinkle and let it melt on hot toffee.
- Top with crushed candy or nuts, pressing gently.
- Cool completely. Break into pieces and enjoy.
Notes
– Customize with your favorite toppings
– Store in fridge or freezer for long-lasting crunch
Conclusion
Christmas Crack is more than just a candy — it’s a holiday tradition. With its rich caramel layer, crisp saltine crunch, and velvety chocolate topping, this simple treat packs a flavor punch in every bite. It’s great for gifting, potlucks, cookie trays, or sneaking straight from the fridge.