Christmas Crack Recipe
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Christmas Crack Recipe
Description
The Christmas Crack Recipe uses saltine crackers arranged in a single layer as the foundation, over which a thick caramel is poured and baked to solidify. This caramel is created by boiling butter and brown sugar to a specific temperature to ensure a chewy, crisp consistency. Once baked, the caramel is topped with melted chocolate, which envelops the crackers and caramel beneath. Optional toppings such as chopped pecans, pretzels, or crushed candies are pressed into the chocolate while it is still soft, adding extra crunch and flavor variety.
The result is a treat balancing sweet and salty flavors with a mix of crunchy and smooth textures. The initial cracker base gives a subtle saltiness that complements the buttery caramel and rich chocolate topping.
After cooling and slicing, Christmas Crack can be stored in the refrigerator or frozen to extend shelf life, making it a convenient make-ahead treat during holidays or gatherings. Choosing different toppings allows customization to personal preferences or gift recipients.
Ingredients
- 35-40 saltine crackers
- 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate or chocolate chips (see note 1, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups toppings such as chopped pecans, crushed pretzels, M&Ms, or crushed OREOs (see note 2)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Line a 15” x 10” x 1” pan with parchment paper, foil, or a silicone mat. Line up crackers in a single layer in rows on prepared sheet.
- Meanwhile, using a candy thermometer, melt butter and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and boil for 2 to 3 minutes (270 to 290 degrees if using a candy thermometer). Immediately pour over crackers and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake 5 minutes or until the candy hardens. Remove from oven.
- Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments at 50% power until melted. Spread over hardened caramel. (You can also sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hardened candy, pop it back in the oven until melted, and spread after that).
- Sprinkle nuts or other toppings and press into the chocolate using a greased spatula. Cut into squares while warm. Cool completely for at least 15 minutes and store in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Chocolate can be melted using a microwave or sprinkled onto caramel and then spread after melting for ease.
- Toppings such as pecans, pretzels, OREOs, M&Ms, toffee bits, or candy canes add textural variety and flavor.
- This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
- Store in an airtight container for about a week or freeze up to 3 months to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 373 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 373kcal | 19% |
| Carbohydrates | 36g | 12% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 25g | 38% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Cholesterol | 1mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 275mg | 11% |
| Potassium | 174mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 26g | 52% |
| Vitamin A | 688IU | 14% |
| Calcium | 37mg | 4% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.