Christmas Crack is the perfect blend of sweet and salty, making it an irresistible holiday treat. This quick and easy recipe uses saltine crackers as a base, which are then topped with a caramelized butter and brown sugar mixture. Melted semi-sweet chocolate chips are spread over the crackers, and festive red and green M&Ms are sprinkled on top for a fun holiday touch. After a quick chill in the fridge or freezer, the result is a crunchy, sweet, and salty snack that’s perfect for gifting or sharing at holiday parties.
This Christmas Crack is a sweet and salty holiday favorite that’s perfect for snacking or gifting. The combination of saltine crackers, caramelized butter, sugar, and chocolate makes it an irresistible treat.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers (about 40): These form the crunchy base of the treat.
- 1 cup salted butter: Adds richness to the caramel mixture.
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed): Creates a sweet, caramel-like layer when combined with butter.
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted over the caramel layer for a delicious chocolate topping.
- 1 cup red and green M&Ms (roughly chopped): Adds a festive, colorful touch to the treat.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, and lightly coat with nonstick cooking spray.
- Step 2:
- Arrange the saltine crackers in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 3:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the salted butter and brown sugar. Stir frequently until the mixture begins to bubble. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to form a caramel mixture.
- Step 4:
- Carefully pour the caramel mixture over the saltine crackers, spreading it as evenly as possible.
- Step 5:
- Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 5-6 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly.
- Step 6:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top of the crackers. Let them sit for about 5 minutes until the chocolate begins to melt.
- Step 7:
- Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the crackers.
- Step 8:
- Sprinkle the chopped red and green M&Ms over the melted chocolate.
- Step 9:
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 3 hours, or in the freezer for about 30 minutes, until the chocolate is fully set.
- Step 10:
- Once set, remove the Christmas Crack from the fridge or freezer and break it into pieces. Serve and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Store the Christmas Crack in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the Christmas Crack for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- This treat is great for gifting—pack it in festive holiday tins or bags to share with family and friends.
Helpful Notes
- Be careful when simmering the butter and brown sugar mixture—do not let it burn or overcook.
- If you want a thicker layer of chocolate, feel free to add more chocolate chips on top before spreading.
- Customize this recipe by adding crushed candy canes or sprinkles on top for extra holiday flair.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Martha Stewart recommends using high-quality chocolate for a smoother and more flavorful topping.
- Ina Garten suggests sprinkling a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate layer for a sweet and salty contrast.
- Jamie Oliver advises using a silicone spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly for the best results.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal ingredients—perfect for busy holiday schedules.
- The sweet and salty combination is irresistible for any crowd.
- It’s a great make-ahead treat that can be stored in the fridge or freezer until needed.
VARIATIONS
- Add crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist to your Christmas Crack.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different flavor profile.
- Swap out the M&Ms for chopped nuts or dried fruit for a different texture and taste.