Christmas Crack (Saltine Bark)

Name: Christmas Crack (Saltine Bark)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 40 saltine crackers; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips; 1 cup chopped nuts (optional); Sea salt (for sprinkling)

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

This irresistible Christmas Crack recipe combines salty and sweet for the perfect holiday treat. Layered with crunchy saltine crackers, rich toffee, and melted chocolate, it's a delightful snack that will have everyone coming back for more. Easy to make and perfect for gifting, this festive dessert is a must-try for your Christmas celebrations!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2025-12-02T11:29:45.493Z

Christmas Crack is a holiday favorite that brings together the perfect blend of salty and sweet, making it a beloved treat for family and friends.

A Perfect Holiday Treat

Christmas Crack is truly a celebration of flavors. The combination of the salty saltine crackers and the sweet, buttery toffee creates a delightful contrast that captivates the palate. As the toffee caramelizes in the oven, it transforms into a rich layer, adding depth and warmth to this festive snack. It's the perfect choice for holiday gatherings where sweet and savory snacks are in high demand.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility. Whether you serve it at a holiday party, gift it to friends and family, or indulge in it for your own treat, Christmas Crack is sure to impress. Plus, with its simple preparation, you can whip up multiple batches in no time, making it an easy addition to your Christmas dessert table.

Easy to Customize

One of the best aspects of Christmas Crack is how easily it can be customized to fit your taste preferences. While the classic recipe calls for semisweet chocolate chips, feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips. Each variation lends a new flavor profile that can delight your friends and family during the holiday season.

Additionally, toppings can be tailored to incorporate your favorites. Consider adding crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing twist, drizzling with caramel or white chocolate, or adding a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra crunch. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that you can create a unique version of this holiday classic that suits your personal taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

40 saltine crackers
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Sea salt (for sprinkling)

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before starting the recipe.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Christmas Crack:

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, and arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the sheet.

Make the Toffee

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring constantly. Once it comes to a boil, let it boil for 3-4 minutes without stirring.

Pour Over Crackers

Carefully pour the toffee mixture over the saltine crackers, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover all the crackers.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 5-6 minutes, until the toffee is bubbly. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips on top.

Melt the Chocolate

Allow the chocolate chips to sit for a minute, then spread them evenly over the melted toffee. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts and sea salt on top.

Cool and Break

Let the bark cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Once set, break into pieces and enjoy!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Tips for the Best Christmas Crack

For the best results, ensure that your toffee mixture reaches the correct boiling point. Cooking the mixture for 3-4 minutes without stirring allows it to develop that tasty caramel flavor, and it is crucial for achieving the ideal texture. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning; the mixture can go from perfectly caramelized to charred in a matter of seconds.

When pouring the toffee over the crackers, work quickly but gently. The hot toffee can be tricky, so take care not to disturb the cracker arrangement too much. A spatula helps in spreading the toffee evenly, covering all the crackers without creating too many gaps.

Storing and Serving

Once your Christmas Crack has cooled and set, storing it correctly will help maintain its freshness. Keep pieces in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or in the refrigerator for even longer shelf life. If you're giving it as a gift, package it in decorative tins or treat bags for a charming presentation.

When serving, consider pairing your Christmas Crack with holiday beverages, such as hot cocoa or spiced cider, to enhance the festive experience. It's also a wonderful snack to enjoy while watching holiday movies or as a sweet surprise on your guests' dessert plates during celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate or white chocolate based on your preference.

→ How long will Christmas Crack last?

When stored in an airtight container, it can last up to two weeks.