Saltine cracker candy, also known as Christmas crack, is the perfect combination of sweet and salty that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. Picture this: a fluffy layer of melted chocolate cascading over buttery caramel, all resting on a crunchy bed of saltines. sweet and salty snack combination Just thinking about it makes my mouth water! These delightful treats are ideal for sharing during the holidays, or frankly, anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of chocolate is best for Saltine cracker candy?
- Can I make Saltine cracker candy ahead of time?
- Is there a substitute for Saltine crackers?
- 📖 Recipe Card
My first encounter with saltine cracker candy was at a holiday gathering where I shamelessly devoured half the tray before anyone noticed. I still remember the laughter and playful jabs from friends as they caught me red-handed with chocolate smeared on my face. festive holiday cookies This candy is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings joy to any occasion, making it a must-try for family gatherings and cozy nights in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Saltine cracker candy is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute treats
- The irresistible flavor combination of sweet chocolate and salty crackers creates a mouthwatering experience
- Its beautiful layered appearance can impress guests without fussing over presentation
- Versatile enough for any holiday or casual snack craving, you’ll find yourself making it again and again
One time, I made this recipe to impress my in-laws and ended up winning them over with my “culinary skills.” They were shocked when they found out how simple it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Saltine Crackers: These crispy little squares serve as the base and add that perfect crunch.
- Unsalted Butter: Use fresh butter for a rich flavor; it’s essential for the caramel.
- Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds depth and sweetness to the caramel layer.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chips melt beautifully; feel free to mix in some milk chocolate for extra sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile and adds warmth.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Arrange the Crackers: Lay out saltine crackers in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Ensure they cover most of the sheet but don’t worry about being perfect.
Create the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar until fully combined, creating that irresistible caramel aroma.
Boil Until Perfect: Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring constantly for about 3 minutes until bubbly and slightly thickened. You want that lovely caramel color! For more inspiration, check out this Thick and Chewy Cookies recipe.
Pour Over Crackers: Carefully pour your hot caramel sauce evenly over the arranged saltines. Spread gently to cover every cracker without disturbing their arrangement.
Melt the Chocolate: Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the caramel layer once removed from heat. Let them sit for 5 minutes so they can melt beautifully.
Smooth It Out: Once melted, use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly across the caramel layer until everything looks irresistibly delicious.
Chill Until Set: Place your baking sheet in the fridge for about 1 hour or until everything is firm enough to break into pieces easily.
Now you’ve got yourself some amazing saltine cracker candy! Just break it apart into pieces and watch everyone dive in like it’s their last meal on Earth—seriously, it’s that good!
In conclusion, saltine cracker candy isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience filled with delightful flavors and textures that can brighten any day! So grab those ingredients and make this sweet surprise; your friends and family will love you even more than they already do! coconut cream dessert. For more inspiration, check out this Coconut Macaroon Nests recipe.
You Must Know
- Saltine cracker candy is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and even easier to eat
- The combination of sweet and salty flavors creates a heavenly snack, ideal for parties or holiday gatherings
- Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing for endless customization
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, preheat your oven first, then line a baking sheet with foil. Arrange the crackers in a single layer before melting the butter and brown sugar for the topping.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with toppings! Try adding chopped nuts, crushed pretzels, or drizzling chocolate over the finished product for extra flair and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover saltine cracker candy in an airtight container at room temperature. If you need to reheat, pop it back in the oven for a few minutes to regain that crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness; it balances perfectly with the Saltine crackers
- Watch your caramel closely to avoid burning; it should be bubbly but not overly dark
- Allow cooling completely before breaking into pieces for clean edges and easy serving
Making this candy always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone fought over the last piece. It was a cherished recipe passed down from my grandmother, who swore it was her secret to getting all her grandkids hooked on sweets.
FAQ
What type of chocolate is best for Saltine cracker candy?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips work wonderfully, but feel free to use milk or dark chocolate too.
Can I make Saltine cracker candy ahead of time?
Absolutely! This candy keeps well in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Is there a substitute for Saltine crackers?
You can use other crackers like Ritz or graham crackers if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Saltine Cracker Candy
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 pieces 1x
Description
Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet and salty with this Saltine Cracker Candy, also known as Christmas crack. Layers of buttery caramel and melted chocolate blanket crunchy saltine crackers, creating a treat that’s perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy night in. This easy-to-make candy is sure to be a hit, bringing smiles and joy to everyone who tries it.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Saltine Crackers (about 40 crackers)
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup Brown Sugar (light)
- 2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar until fully combined, then bring to a boil while stirring constantly for about 3 minutes until bubbly.
- Carefully pour the hot caramel sauce over the arranged saltines, spreading it gently.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel layer and let sit for 5 minutes until melted.
- Use a spatula to spread melted chocolate evenly across the caramel layer.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until firm enough to break into pieces.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 1 piece (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
