Christmas Crack Recipe

Christmas Crack is a deliciously addictive holiday treat made with a layer of saltine crackers, a rich caramel topping, and a generous coating of melted chocolate. This easy-to-make dessert is a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors, making it a festive favorite for gatherings, gifts, and snacking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with just a few ingredients
• A perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors
• Great for holiday gifting and sharing with friends and family
• Simple to customize with different toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or candies
• Stores well and can be made in advance

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
• Optional toppings: chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, holiday sprinkles

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
2. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring until it reaches a boil. Let it boil for about 3 minutes without stirring.
4. Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the saltine crackers, ensuring they are fully covered.
5. Bake for 5 minutes until the caramel becomes bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top. Let them sit for a few minutes until they soften, then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel layer.
7. Add your favorite toppings while the chocolate is still warm.
8. Let the Christmas Crack cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour until set.
9. Break into pieces and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 24 pieces
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• White Chocolate Version: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
• Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans, almonds, or peanuts on top.
• Peppermint Twist: Add crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the chocolate layer for extra depth of flavor.
• Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Store Christmas Crack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months; let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
• No reheating needed—just grab a piece and enjoy!

FAQs

How do I prevent my Christmas Crack from sticking?

Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or greased aluminum foil will help prevent sticking.

Can I use graham crackers instead of saltines?

Yes! Graham crackers will add a slightly sweeter taste.

Why is my caramel grainy?

Grainy caramel can occur if the sugar crystallizes. Stirring too much or not boiling long enough can cause this.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will make it sweeter, while dark chocolate provides a more balanced taste.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to create a dairy-free version.

Can I add peanut butter?

Yes! Drizzle melted peanut butter over the chocolate layer before cooling.

How long does Christmas Crack last?

When stored properly, it can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

Why did my chocolate not melt properly?

If your chocolate isn’t melting, try placing the tray back in the oven for a minute to soften it before spreading.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Christmas Crack is a great make-ahead treat since it stores well.

How do I break it into pieces?

Once set, use your hands to break it into irregular pieces or cut it with a sharp knife.

Conclusion

Christmas Crack is an easy, crowd-pleasing treat that brings together the perfect mix of sweet, salty, and crunchy textures. Whether you’re making it for holiday gifts, a festive snack, or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this simple recipe will become a staple in your holiday traditions. Try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy this irresistible dessert!

Print