Christmas Crack (Saltine Toffee Bark) is the irresistible holiday treat that takes just minutes to make and disappears even faster! This sweet-and-salty dessert is made with buttery caramel poured over crisp saltine crackers, then topped with melted chocolate and festive toppings. The result is a bark-style candy that snaps, crunches, and melts in your mouth all at once. It’s budget-friendly, beginner-approved, and perfect for gifting or setting out at holiday parties. Whether you’re baking with kids or whipping up last-minute sweets, this is one recipe you’ll make again and again.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🎁 Perfect for gifting: Package in cellophane or tins
- 🧂 Sweet and salty balance: The saltines add the perfect crunch
- ⏱️ Quick to make: Only 10 minutes of oven time
- 🧒 Kid-friendly: Great for little helpers
- ❄️ Freezer-friendly: Make it ahead and freeze for up to 2 months
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers (about 40)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped pecans, almonds, or festive sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a 10×15-inch baking sheet with aluminum foil, then a layer of parchment paper.
- Arrange crackers in a single layer on the lined sheet, edge to edge.
- Make caramel: In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly for 3–4 minutes until bubbly and thickened.
- Pour and bake: Carefully pour the caramel over crackers and spread evenly. Bake for 5 minutes.
- Add chocolate: Remove from oven, sprinkle chocolate chips over hot caramel. Let sit 2 minutes, then spread evenly with a spatula.
- Top it off: Add chopped nuts, sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or sea salt while chocolate is still soft.
- Chill & break: Chill in the fridge for 2 hours until fully set. Remove, peel away paper, and break into pieces.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 30+ pieces
- Estimated Cost: ~$5
- Course: Dessert, Candy
- Cuisine: American
- Keywords: Christmas Crack, Saltine Toffee Bark, holiday candy
Nutrition Facts (Per Piece – Approximate)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 16g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
Tips & Variations
- 🍫 Chocolate swaps: Use white chocolate, dark chocolate, or swirl both
- 🌈 Festive flair: Top with red/green sprinkles, mini M&Ms, or edible glitter
- 🍬 Candy cane crunch: Sprinkle crushed peppermint for a holiday twist
- ❄️ Storage: Store in airtight container for 1 week or freeze up to 2 months
- ⚠️ Don’t use wax paper: It melts under caramel—use parchment or foil only!
FAQs
Why is it called “Christmas Crack”?
Because it’s addictive—in the best way! The salty-sweet combo and toffee crunch make it impossible to stop at one piece.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! It freezes beautifully. Just thaw at room temp for 15 minutes before serving.
What crackers work best?
Saltines are the classic choice, but Ritz, Club crackers, or even matzo can work too.
How do I keep the toffee from separating?
Stir constantly while boiling the butter and sugar mixture, and don’t overcook past 4 minutes.
Christmas Crack (Saltine Toffee Bark)
Equipment
- – Baking sheet
- – Saucepan
- Spatula
- – Parchment paper
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- – 1 sleeve saltine crackers about 40
- – 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter
- – 1 cup packed brown sugar
- – 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- – ½ cup chopped pecans almonds, or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and parchment.
- Arrange saltines in a single layer on sheet.
- In saucepan, melt butter and sugar. Boil 3–4 mins, stirring.
- Pour over crackers and spread. Bake for 5 mins.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips on hot toffee. Let melt, then spread.
- Add nuts or sprinkles on top.
- Chill 2 hours. Break into pieces and enjoy!
Notes
– Try topping with crushed candy canes
– Freeze for up to 2 months
Conclusion
Christmas Crack (Saltine Toffee Bark) is the ultimate holiday recipe you didn’t know you needed. It’s quick, ridiculously easy, and ridiculously delicious. Make a double batch—you’ll be glad you did. Whether it’s for gifting, cookie trays, or sneaking bites from the fridge, this classic Christmas treat is bound to become your go-to every December.