Christmas Crack is one of those sweet treats that’s simple but feels so special during the holiday season. It’s all about crispy crackers covered in a buttery, caramel-like toffee and topped with a generous layer of melted chocolate. The crunchy, sweet, and salty flavors come together in a way that keeps you reaching for just one more piece.
I love making Christmas Crack because it’s easy and quick, but it always impresses everyone who tries it. One of my favorite parts is the toffee layer — it’s buttery and just perfectly gooey after baking. I like to sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the chocolate before it cools; it adds a nice touch that balances the sweetness. It’s a treat that feels homemade but has that look of a fancy candy bar.
Whenever I bring Christmas Crack to holiday gatherings, it disappears fast, and everyone asks for the recipe. I often make extra to give as little gifts to friends and family wrapped up in a festive box or bag. It’s that kind of dessert that not only tastes great but also spreads a little holiday cheer with every bite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Saltine Crackers: These give Christmas Crack its signature crunch and salty balance. If you can’t find saltines, lightly salted crackers like Graham crackers or Ritz can work, but saltines are best for that true flavor combo.
Butter & Brown Sugar: These create the rich caramel toffee layer. I always use unsalted butter so I can control the salt level. Light brown sugar adds moisture and deep flavor; dark brown sugar can give a richer caramel taste.
Chocolate Chips: Semisweet chocolate works nicely for a balanced sweetness. You can swap for milk or dark chocolate chips based on your preference. White chocolate is fun too but changes the flavor profile.
Optional Toppings: Pecans add a nice texture and nutty flavor. Holiday M&Ms or colored sprinkles give a festive look but aren’t required. Pearl sugar or coarse sugar adds a bit of crunch and sparkle on top.
How Do You Get the Caramel Layer Just Right?
The caramel toffee layer is the heart of this recipe, and it’s important to cook it properly so it’s thick and glossy.
- Cook butter and brown sugar together until melted, then let it boil for exactly 3 minutes without stirring. This boiling time thickens the caramel.
- Pour the hot caramel evenly over crackers quickly before it sets, spreading gently with a spatula if needed.
- Bake 5 minutes to make the caramel bubbly, which helps it set firm but chewy.
- Work fast when adding chocolate chips so they melt smoothly on the warm caramel for a nice even layer.
With these steps, your Christmas Crack will have that perfect sticky-but-crispy texture every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet (about 15×10 inches) – I recommend using a rimmed sheet to prevent spillovers and for easy handling.
- Aluminum foil – for easy cleanup and to lift the bars out after cooling.
- Spray or pastry brush – to lightly coat the foil with cooking spray so the candy doesn’t stick.
- Saucepan – for melting butter and sugar; a medium-sized one works well.
- Spatula or spoon – to spread the caramel and chocolate evenly.
- Cooling rack or countertop – for letting the candy cool until set.
- Knife or pizza cutter – to break into pieces once cooled.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pecans for chopped walnuts, almonds, or leave nuts out for a nut-free version that still tastes great.
- Use white or milk chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a different flavor twist.
- Add crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top before the chocolate sets for a festive peppermint crunch.
- Mix in dried cranberries or chopped dried fruits with the toppings for tartness and color during the holidays.
Christmas Crack Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 40 saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Optional Toppings:
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- Red and green holiday M&Ms for garnish
- Pearl sugar or coarse sugar for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and bake, plus around 2 hours to cool and set. Total time is roughly 2 hours and 10 minutes, but most of that is hands-off while the treat sets to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Crackers:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet (about 15×10 inches) with aluminum foil, then lightly spray the foil with cooking spray to keep the Christmas Crack from sticking. Arrange 40 saltine crackers in a single layer inside the baking sheet, covering the entire surface.
2. Make the Butter and Brown Sugar Caramel:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter along with 1 cup of packed light brown sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, allow it to boil for 3 full minutes without stirring. This will thicken your caramel for the perfect texture.
3. Pour, Bake, and Add Chocolate:
Immediately pour the hot caramel evenly over the crackers in the baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it gently if needed so all crackers are coated. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake uncovered for about 5 minutes, until the caramel is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and quickly sprinkle 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips over the warm caramel. Let them sit for about 5 minutes until the chocolate melts, then use a spatula to spread the chocolate smoothly over the caramel layer.
4. Add Toppings and Let Set:
Sprinkle optional toppings like chopped pecans, red and green holiday M&Ms, and pearl or coarse sugar evenly over the chocolate. Let the Christmas Crack cool completely at room temperature for about 2 hours or speed up the process by refrigerating until fully set.
5. Break into Pieces and Store:
Once firm, lift the foil with the Christmas Crack out of the pan and break or cut it into irregular pieces. Store your delicious holiday treat in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Enjoy sharing this salty, sweet, and crunchy Christmas Crack with friends and family — it’s sure to be a festive favorite!
Can I Make Christmas Crack Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare Christmas Crack a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge, and it will stay fresh and delicious.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Saltine Crackers?
Saltines give the perfect salty crunch, but you can substitute with lightly salted crackers like Ritz or even graham crackers. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
How Do I Store Leftover Christmas Crack?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. To avoid condensation, let it come to room temp before serving if chilled.
Can I Use Different Chocolate or Toppings?
Absolutely! Swap semisweet chocolate with milk, dark, or white chocolate chips. Feel free to add nuts, crushed peppermint, or colored sprinkles to customize your festive treat.