Looking for the perfect holiday snack? Try this Christmas Cracker Candy recipe, a sweet and salty treat that’s simple to make and absolutely irresistible. With just a handful of ingredients, including saltine crackers, dark brown sugar, butter, and chocolate, this easy-to-make caramel cracker candy will quickly become a holiday favorite. Perfect for gifting or enjoying at holiday gatherings, this no-bake Christmas candy can be made in just minutes and is sure to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love It: This homemade saltine cracker candy combines rich caramel with semi-sweet chocolate, creating a crunchy, chewy, and decadent treat. Whether you’re preparing for Christmas dessert or looking for an easy holiday snack recipe, this candy is a winner. Made with butter, sugar, and your choice of chocolate, it’s a simple yet luxurious treat you can make in no time. Get your hands on this Christmas candy recipe and enjoy a festive twist on classic flavors!
Ingredients:
- 28 to 35 saltine crackers (1 sleeve, enough to cover a baking sheet)
- 1 cup (220g) packed dark brown sugar
- 1 cup (225g or 2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (10-12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet (10-15 inches) with aluminum foil, creating a rim around the edges to prevent caramel from dripping. Arrange 28 saltine crackers side by side on the sheet, covering the surface.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, dark brown sugar, and kosher salt. Stir constantly, bringing the mixture to a boil. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes, until the caramel becomes bubbly and thickens. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Immediately pour the hot caramel mixture over the crackers, spreading it evenly to coat them fully. Place the baking sheet in the oven for 5 minutes, allowing the caramel to bubble and set.
- While the crackers are in the oven, melt the chopped semi-sweet chocolate. You can do this using a double boiler or by microwaving the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Once the crackers are out of the oven, wait 1 minute for the caramel to stop bubbling, then pour the melted chocolate over the top. Spread the chocolate with a spatula to cover the crackers evenly.
- Let the candy cool at room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate hardens completely.
- Once chilled, remove the foil and break the candy into pieces using a large knife. Store the cracker candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips:
- Foil Rim: Be sure to fold the edges of the foil upwards around the crackers to contain the caramel and prevent it from dripping onto the baking sheet.
- Caramel Consistency: Make sure to stir the caramel constantly while cooking to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, golden texture.
- Chill Time: Allow the candy to cool completely in the fridge for the best results, ensuring the chocolate sets perfectly.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Nuts: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds on top of the caramel before adding the chocolate for added crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate: Try using milk or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a different taste.
- Flavored Salt: Experiment with flavored salts, such as sea salt or smoked salt, to give the candy a unique twist.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of cracker? Yes, while saltine crackers work best for this recipe, you can also try graham crackers for a sweeter version or even whole wheat crackers for a healthier option.
How long can I store this candy? You can store the Christmas cracker candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze this candy for up to 1-2 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Serving Suggestions:
- Holiday Treat: Serve this easy-to-make Christmas cracker candy as a festive holiday snack or gift it to friends and family in decorative containers.
- Dessert Pairing: Pair with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee for a sweet treat after dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Simple: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this treat is perfect for last-minute holiday parties or as a sweet gift for loved ones.
- Sweet & Salty: The combination of caramelized saltine crackers, rich chocolate, and a touch of salt creates the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
- Make Ahead: It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it an ideal candy for holiday baking and celebrations.
Christmas Cracker Candy Recipe
35
servings15
minutes5
minutesIngredients
28 to 35 saltine crackers (1 sleeve, enough to cover a baking sheet)
1 cup (220g) packed dark brown sugar
1 cup (225g or 2 sticks) unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups (10-12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet (10-15 inches) with aluminum foil, creating a rim around the edges to prevent caramel from dripping. Arrange 28 saltine crackers side by side on the sheet, covering the surface.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, dark brown sugar, and kosher salt. Stir constantly, bringing the mixture to a boil. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes, until the caramel becomes bubbly and thickens. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Immediately pour the hot caramel mixture over the crackers, spreading it evenly to coat them fully. Place the baking sheet in the oven for 5 minutes, allowing the caramel to bubble and set.
- While the crackers are in the oven, melt the chopped semi-sweet chocolate. You can do this using a double boiler or by microwaving the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Once the crackers are out of the oven, wait 1 minute for the caramel to stop bubbling, then pour the melted chocolate over the top. Spread the chocolate with a spatula to cover the crackers evenly.
- Let the candy cool at room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate hardens completely.
- Once chilled, remove the foil and break the candy into pieces using a large knife. Store the cracker candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
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