Christmas Crack (Saltine Bark)

Name: Christmas Crack (Saltine Bark)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 pieces
Ingredients: 40 Saltine crackers; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup chopped nuts (optional); Sea salt (for sprinkling)

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Indulge in the sweet and salty goodness of Christmas Crack, a delightful treat that's perfect for the holiday season.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:50:57.430Z

This Christmas Crack recipe combines the crunch of Saltine crackers with a buttery toffee and a chocolatey topping. It's the perfect treat for holiday gatherings and makes a wonderful gift!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible combination of sweet and salty flavors
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Perfect for sharing during the holiday season

      

A Festive Treat for Everyone

Christmas Crack, also known as Saltine Bark, is a wildly popular holiday treat that brings joy to gatherings and celebrations. Its delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors appeals to both children and adults alike. This simple dessert is not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing, making it a perfect addition to your festive dessert table.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, attending a potluck, or looking for a thoughtful gift for neighbors and friends, Christmas Crack is an excellent choice. Its unique texture and taste will leave everyone craving more, ensuring that it will be a hit at any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make in large batches, so you can spread the holiday cheer with minimal effort.

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

The magic of Christmas Crack lies in its irresistible blend of flavors and textures. The crispness of Saltine crackers provides a solid base, and the buttery toffee adds a rich, caramelized sweetness that perfectly complements the chocolate topping. A sprinkle of sea salt at the end enhances these flavors, creating a delightful balance that keeps you coming back for another piece.

For those who love a bit of crunch, adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can elevate this treat even further. The nuts not only add a delicious crunch but also introduce an earthy flavor that rounds out the sweetness of the chocolate and toffee. This versatility means that you can customize your Christmas Crack to suit your taste preferences.

Easy to Make and Enjoy

One of the best things about Christmas Crack is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a batch in no time. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy holiday schedules when you want to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

In addition to being quick and easy, the cleanup is a breeze thanks to the use of foil or parchment paper. Simply line your baking sheet, and once the treat has cooled, you can easily lift it out and break it into pieces. This hassle-free approach allows you to enjoy the fun of baking without the stress, leaving you more time to spend with loved ones.

Ingredients

For the Crack

40 Saltine crackers
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Sea salt (for sprinkling)

Make sure to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the treat.

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.

Arrange the Crackers

Lay out the Saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Make the Toffee

In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 3 minutes without stirring.

Pour the Toffee

Pour the toffee mixture over the Saltine crackers, spreading it evenly.

Bake

Bake in the oven for 10 minutes or until bubbly. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.

Add Chocolate Chips

Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the warm toffee and let them sit for a few minutes to melt. Then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the toffee.

Cool and Cut

Sprinkle with chopped nuts and sea salt if desired. Let cool completely, then break into pieces.

Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Storage Tips for Christmas Crack

To keep your Christmas Crack fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for up to two weeks, making it a great make-ahead treat for the holiday season. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it to extend its shelf life, but be aware that the texture may change slightly, becoming a bit firmer.

If you plan to give Christmas Crack as a gift, consider packaging it in festive tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbons. This thoughtful presentation not only makes it more appealing but also shows your loved ones that you care. Just be sure to include a note on how to store it to ensure they enjoy it at its best!

Variations to Try

While the classic recipe for Christmas Crack is undeniably delicious, there are several fun variations you can try to mix things up. For instance, you can swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile. Adding toppings like crushed peppermint candies or drizzles of caramel sauce can also create a festive twist.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the toffee mixture for a sweet and spicy version. This unexpected flavor combination will surprise and delight your guests, making your Christmas Crack a standout treat at any holiday gathering.

Perfect Pairings with Christmas Crack

Christmas Crack pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages, enhancing your holiday experience. Hot cocoa, spiced cider, or even a festive holiday punch can complement the sweet and salty flavors of this treat. For adults, a glass of red wine or a holiday-themed cocktail can create a delightful pairing that will impress your guests.

For a fun twist, consider serving Christmas Crack alongside a charcuterie board. The combination of savory cheeses, cured meats, and fruits with the sweet treat creates a beautiful contrast, making for a memorable appetizer or dessert spread. This versatility ensures that Christmas Crack can shine as both a standalone treat and a part of a larger festive menu.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of crackers?

Yes, you can substitute Saltine crackers with Ritz crackers or graham crackers for a different flavor.

→ How do I store Christmas Crack?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze Christmas Crack?

Yes, you can freeze it. Just place it in an airtight container and it will keep for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to the topping?

You can add nuts, sprinkles, or even drizzle white chocolate over the top for extra flair.