Name: Easy Cracker Toffee Cookie
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 sleeve saltine crackers (about 40 crackers); 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; Optional toppings: chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, sprinkles, sea salt

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect combination of salty and sweet with a satisfying crunch in every bite. The toffee layer caramelizes beautifully over the crackers, creating a buttery base that’s irresistible under a layer of rich, melted chocolate. It’s incredibly easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and can be customized with your favorite toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or crushed candy. Best of all, it takes less than 20 minutes to prepare and requires no special baking skills—just bake, chill, break, and enjoy!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 sleeve saltine crackers (about 40 crackers)
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional toppings: chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, sprinkles, sea salt

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet (10×15-inch) with parchment paper or aluminum foil and spray with nonstick spray.
Layer the crackers: Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they cover the entire surface without overlapping.
Make the toffee: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to boil. Once boiling, let it cook for 3 minutes without stirring. The mixture should be bubbly and slightly thickened.
Pour the toffee: Carefully pour the hot toffee over the crackers, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover all the crackers.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5 minutes. The toffee will bubble up and spread more evenly over the crackers.
Add chocolate: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee. Let sit for 2-3 minutes until the chips soften, then use a spatula to spread the chocolate into an even layer.
Add toppings (optional): While the chocolate is still soft, add your desired toppings like chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crushed candy canes.
Chill: Let the toffee cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for about 1 hour or until fully set.
Break and serve: Once set, break into pieces and store in an airtight container.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 35-40 pieces. Prep time is around 10 minutes, with 5 minutes of baking and at least 1 hour of chilling. It’s an easy and quick treat for the holidays or any sweet craving!

Variations

Use graham crackers or Ritz crackers: Swap out saltines for a different base for a new flavor twist.
White chocolate version: Use white chocolate chips and top with dried cranberries and pistachios for a festive touch.
Peanut butter twist: Add a drizzle of melted peanut butter over the chocolate before chilling.
Add sea salt: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate for an extra salty-sweet contrast.

Storage/reheating

Store Christmas Crack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. No reheating is necessary—just thaw and enjoy!

FAQs

1. Why is it called Christmas Crack?

It’s called “Christmas Crack” because it’s made during the holidays and is highly addictive due to its sweet, salty, and crunchy flavor combination.

2. Can I use different crackers?

Yes, graham crackers, Ritz, or Club crackers can be used in place of saltines. Each gives a slightly different flavor and texture.

3. Can I use milk or white chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely. You can substitute with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate chips depending on your preference.

4. How do I know when the toffee is done boiling?

Boil the butter and sugar mixture for exactly 3 minutes once it starts bubbling, and it should be ready. It will darken slightly and become thicker.

5. Can I make it nut-free?

Yes, just skip the nuts or substitute with seeds or crushed pretzels if you want a similar crunch without the allergens.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger baking sheet or two pans. Just be sure the toffee layer covers all the crackers.

7. Why is my toffee grainy?

Grainy toffee can result from not dissolving the sugar fully or stirring too much after boiling begins. Make sure to stir continuously until it boils, then stop stirring.

8. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, Christmas Crack is perfect for making ahead. It stores well and even tastes better after a day or two as the flavors meld together.

9. Can I freeze Christmas Crack?

Yes, it freezes very well. Just wrap it tightly or store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

10. How do I cut or break it?

Once it’s fully chilled, use your hands to break it into pieces, or use a sharp knife to cut it into squares.

Conclusion

Easy Cracker Toffee Cookie (Christmas Crack) is a no-fail holiday treat that’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or indulging. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you can create a deliciously addictive dessert that’s sure to disappear fast. Customize it with your favorite toppings, make it ahead, and enjoy the sweet magic of this festive favorite!