The holidays are all about sweet traditions—and few desserts capture the spirit of Christmas quite like Christmas Cracker Toffee, often known as “Christmas Crack.”
This irresistible treat combines the crunch of buttery toffee, the saltiness of crackers, and the richness of melted chocolate in one bite.
It’s simple, fast, and nearly impossible to mess up—making it perfect for last-minute gifting or family snacking during the holiday season.
Let’s jump into how to make this festive favorite that has everyone reaching for “just one more piece.”
Christmas Cracker Toffee Recipe
This recipe transforms ordinary saltine crackers into a golden, caramelized base topped with smooth chocolate and a sprinkle of festive toppings.
The contrast of sweet and salty makes it incredibly addictive, while its quick prep time and minimal ingredients make it a go-to recipe for busy holiday bakers.
Whether you call it “Christmas Crack,” “Saltine Toffee,” or “Cracker Candy,” it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that disappears fast from any dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve (about 40) saltine crackers
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional, if using unsalted crackers)
- Toppings of choice: crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, red and green sprinkles, or sea salt
Step-by-Step Process
1. Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper, then cover it with a single layer of saltine crackers.
Make sure the crackers are touching edge-to-edge for a solid base—no gaps!
2. Make the Toffee Layer
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar together over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Once it begins to bubble, allow it to boil gently for 3 minutes without stirring. You’ll notice it thickening and turning a rich caramel color. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Pour and Bake
Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture over the crackers, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 5 minutes, or until the toffee is bubbling across the entire surface.
4. Add the Chocolate
Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let them sit for a minute to melt, then gently spread the chocolate evenly across the top.
5. Add Toppings and Chill
While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle your favorite toppings—crushed candy canes for color, chopped pecans for crunch, or a pinch of sea salt for contrast. Refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until fully set.
6. Break and Serve
Once the toffee has hardened, peel it from the foil and break it into uneven pieces—like candy bark. Each piece will have its own mix of salty, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness.
How to Serve It
Serve Christmas Cracker Toffee as a sweet snack at your holiday gatherings, or package it in cellophane bags tied with red ribbons for homemade gifts.
It’s perfect with hot cocoa, coffee, or even after-dinner desserts.
For parties, display it on a festive tray alongside cookies, fudge, and truffles—it’ll vanish before you know it!
Variations
- White Chocolate Peppermint Toffee: Use white chocolate chips and top with crushed peppermint candies for a wintery twist.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Graham Cracker Base: Swap saltines for graham crackers for a sweeter, s’mores-like flavor.
- Dark Chocolate Sea Salt: Use dark chocolate chips and finish with flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch.
- Holiday Sprinkle Fun: Let kids decorate with red, green, and gold sprinkles before the chocolate sets for a festive look.
Conclusion
Christmas Cracker Toffee is the ultimate holiday treat—quick, budget-friendly, and utterly delicious.
It’s a recipe that brings people together, filling your kitchen with the warm aroma of caramel and chocolate. Whether you’re gifting it, sharing it, or sneaking a few pieces yourself, this toffee promises to become a beloved holiday tradition year after year.