Saltine Cracker Toffee, often called “Christmas Crack,” is a classic treat that balances sweet, salty, and buttery flavors in every bite. This nostalgic recipe is incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few pantry ingredients. Perfect for holidays, parties, or gifting, this toffee is a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Below is a step-by-step guide to creating this delicious treat.
1. Old Fashioned Saltine Cracker Toffee Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve of saltine crackers (about 40 crackers)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans or almonds)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, ensuring it extends up the sides for easy cleanup. Lightly grease the lined pan with non-stick spray. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer, covering the entire sheet without overlapping.
Step 2: Make the Toffee
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and stir until fully combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Let it boil for 3–4 minutes, or until it thickens and turns a rich caramel color. Avoid overcooking, as the toffee can burn quickly.
Step 3: Pour the Toffee Over the Crackers
Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture over the arranged saltine crackers. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring all crackers are coated with the caramel mixture.
Step 4: Bake the Toffee
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes. The toffee will bubble and settle over the crackers. Remove it from the oven as soon as it’s done baking.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Layer
Immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee layer. Let them sit for 2–3 minutes to soften. Once the chocolate chips have melted, use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly over the toffee layer.
Step 6: Add Chopped Nuts
While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle the nuts on top and gently press them into the chocolate.
Step 7: Cool and Break Into Pieces
Allow the toffee to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For faster cooling, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours, or until the toffee and chocolate are completely hardened. Once set, break the toffee into bite-sized pieces by hand.
2. Variations for Saltine Cracker Toffee
This recipe is highly versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas to put your own spin on this classic treat:
Sea Salt Finish: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the sweet and salty contrast.
Festive Flair: Add colorful sprinkles or edible glitter for a holiday-themed version.
White Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the semi-sweet chocolate layer and swirl it with a toothpick for a marbled effect.
Candy Additions: Crushed peppermint candies or toffee bits make great toppings, especially during the holiday season.
Graham Cracker Base: Swap out the saltines for graham crackers for a slightly sweeter base.
3. How to Store Leftover Saltine Cracker Toffee
Room Temperature: Place the toffee pieces in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dry place. It will stay fresh for up to a week.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the toffee in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and crisp for up to two weeks.
Freezing: Toffee freezes well, making it an excellent make-ahead treat. Place the pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let the toffee thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Old Fashioned Saltine Cracker Toffee is a timeless recipe that’s easy to make yet incredibly satisfying. Its combination of buttery caramel, crispy crackers, and smooth chocolate makes it a treat that never disappoints. With this recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy this delightful snack whenever the craving strikes. Gather your ingredients, start melting that butter, and prepare to create a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to share!
