Introduction
There’s something undeniably magical about the holiday season, and this delightful Christmas Crack is the sweet treat that perfectly captures that spirit. With its irresistible combination of crunchy saltine crackers, rich caramel, and silky chocolate, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special gift for loved ones. Let’s dive into this festive recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 40 saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 24 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Lay the saltine crackers in a single layer, completely covering the surface of the baking sheet.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the packed brown sugar and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Let it boil for 3 minutes without stirring — this allows the sugar to fully dissolve and the caramel to thicken beautifully.
- Immediately pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the saltine crackers, using a spatula to spread it gently and ensure each cracker gets a delicious coating.
- Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 5 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and fragrant.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel layer. Allow them to sit for 5 minutes; this will soften the chocolate, making it easier to spread.
- Using a spatula, gently spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel, creating a luscious layer of chocolate goodness.
- If you’d like, sprinkle your choice of chopped pecans or walnuts and a light pinch of sea salt on top for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set and your delightful candy is firm to the touch.
- Once set, break the Christmas Crack into pieces and serve! Store any leftovers in an airtight container, if you can resist the temptation!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize this recipe. You can swap in your favorite nuts or even add a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for a festive twist!
- For an extra creamy finish, consider drizzling some melted white chocolate on top after the chocolate layer has set.
- If you plan to gift these treats, consider using clear bags tied with festive ribbon for a beautiful presentation that’s sure to delight.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe relies on a simple technique of making a quick caramel. Boiling the butter and brown sugar until it reaches a bubbling state is key to achieving that perfect, crunchy texture. Don’t skip the refrigeration step — it helps the chocolate layer firm up nicely, making it easier to break into pieces.
FAQ
- Can I use different types of chocolate? Absolutely! Milk chocolate or dark chocolate can be substituted based on your preference.
- How long will Christmas Crack last? When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it can stay fresh for about a week. If refrigerated, it can last even longer.
- Can this recipe be doubled? Yes! Just make sure to use a larger baking sheet and adjust the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
Christmas Crack is more than just a treat; it’s a festive delight that sparks joy with every crunchy, chocolaty bite. Whether you’re whipping it up for a holiday party, enjoying it with loved ones, or gifting it to friends, this sweet and salty confection is bound to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and savor the delightful magic of the season!