Introduction

Christmas Crack is a delightfully addictive holiday treat featuring a crunchy saltine cracker base topped with buttery toffee, melted chocolate, and swirls of peanut butter chips. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for sharing at festive gatherings or gifting to loved ones.

The image shows a stack of four dessert bars on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three visible layers: the bottom layer is light golden brown and crumbly, acting as a firm base; the middle layer is a smooth, caramel-colored filling; the top layer is glossy dark chocolate with light brown swirls drizzled across it, adding a textured look. The bars are cut into rectangular shapes, stacked unevenly to show the layers clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

35-40 saltine crackers, broken into individual squares
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
4.5 oz peanut butter chips (such as Reese’s)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray with non-stick spray. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer in rows on the tray, breaking some crackers in half if needed to fit the last column. Set aside.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the brown sugar and increase the heat to medium. Stir continuously as the mixture comes to a boil. Let it boil for 3 minutes until it turns a caramel color. Use a timer for accuracy.
Step 3: Pour the hot toffee evenly over the arranged crackers. Quickly spread it with a spatula to cover all crackers completely.
Step 4: Bake the tray in the preheated oven for 4-5 minutes, or until the toffee bubbles. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips on top. Return the tray to the oven for another 2 minutes to melt the chocolate.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and, using a clean spatula or knife, spread the melted chocolate evenly over the toffee layer. Immediately sprinkle the peanut butter chips on top.
Step 6: Let the peanut butter chips sit for 2 minutes to soften and melt. Using the end of a fork, gently swirl the peanut butter chips through the chocolate layer to create a marbled effect.
Step 7: Cover the tray with foil and refrigerate until fully set, or freeze for about 15 minutes for quicker chilling. Once firm, peel the foil from the back and break the treat into pieces for serving or storing.

Tips & Variations

For Australian readers, Salada crackers are a perfect substitute for saltines.
Ensure the toffee boils for the full 3 minutes to achieve the right caramelization and texture.
Try using white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a different flavor twist.
Store in an airtight container to keep the treat crunchy and fresh longer.

Storage

Store Christmas Crack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for longer freshness. To re-crisp, allow the pieces to come to room temperature before serving. It can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up view of three stacked dessert bars, each having three visible layers: a thick, golden brown base layer with a crumbly texture, a middle layer that is a lighter tan caramel or butterscotch color with a smooth and creamy look, and a top layer featuring a marbled swirl of milk chocolate and light brown caramel spread unevenly with glossy streaks. The edges of the bars have a slightly rough texture, showing a firm but chewy consistency. The background has a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of crackers for this recipe?

Saltine crackers are preferred for their salty crunch and thin texture, but similar plain, unsalted crackers like Australian Salada crackers work well. Avoid overly flavored or thick crackers to maintain balance.

How do I prevent the toffee from burning?

Keep the heat moderate and stir continuously while boiling the butter and brown sugar mixture. Setting a timer for 3 minutes helps prevent overcooking and burning, ensuring a smooth caramel color and taste.