Christmas Cracker Candy

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to add to your holiday festivities, you’ve come to the right place! Christmas Cracker Candy is one of those recipes that brings back warm memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings by the fire. This candy combines the perfect balance of salty and sweet, making it a favorite among friends and family alike. It’s not just a holiday treat; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a last-minute gift during the holiday season. Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip this up in no time—even on a busy day!
• Family-friendly fun: Kids love helping out with this recipe, from lining the crackers to pouring the chocolate.
• Perfect for sharing: Make a big batch and package it up for gifts or bring it to your next gathering—everyone will want some!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this candy ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy.
• Irresistibly delicious: The combination of crunchy crackers, buttery caramel, and rich chocolate will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple ingredients that make up this delicious Christmas Cracker Candy. Each one adds its own unique touch to create that perfect harmony of flavors!

• 28 to 35 saltine crackers (about one sleeve, enough to line your tray)
• 1 cup (220 g) packed dark brown sugar
• 1 cup (225 g or 2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (10 to 12 ounces) good-quality semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

Variations

One of the best things about Christmas Cracker Candy is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add nuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or almonds on top before baking for an added crunch.
• Try different chocolates: Use milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
• Incorporate spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a festive twist that enhances those holiday vibes.
• Drizzle caramel on top: For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle some melted caramel over the chocolate before it sets.

How to Make Christmas Cracker Candy

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with nonstick aluminum foil. This step is crucial as it prevents sticking and makes cleanup super easy. If you’re using regular foil, give it a light spray with baking spray. Once that’s done, arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the bottom.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and kosher salt. Cook over medium heat while stirring frequently until everything melts together smoothly. Keep an eye on it—once it starts boiling, let it bubble for just about 30 seconds before taking it off the heat. Stir in vanilla extract for that lovely aroma! This mixture gives your cracker candy its sweet base.

Step 3: Coat the Crackers

Now it’s time to spread that luscious caramel sauce over those saltine crackers! It’s important to coat them evenly so every bite has that delicious flavor. Don’t worry if it seems hot; just be careful as you pour.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for about 5 minutes. The caramel should be bubbly and hot—this is what helps bind everything together!

Step 5: Melt Your Chocolate

While your crackers are baking, get ready to melt your chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Use short intervals—30 seconds at a time—and stir each time until it’s silky smooth. This ensures no burnt bits!

Step 6: Finish with Chocolate

Once your pan comes out of the oven and has cooled for about a minute, pour your melted chocolate over those caramel-coated crackers. Spread it evenly with a spatula so every square inch gets covered in chocolaty goodness.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Let everything cool down at room temperature first before moving your pan into the refrigerator overnight. This step allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 8: Slice and Enjoy!

When you’re ready, carefully peel away the foil from your chilled candy sheet. Cut it into snack-sized pieces using a chef’s knife (or break them apart with your hands if that’s easier). Store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer—if they last that long!

That’s all there is to making Christmas Cracker Candy! I hope you enjoy sharing this sweet treat with loved ones as much as I do! Did you love this recipe? Leave us a rating and review!

Pro Tips for Making Christmas Cracker Candy

Making Christmas cracker candy is a delightful experience, and a few helpful tips can make the process even smoother!

• Use a rimmed baking sheet – This will help contain any bubbling caramel and keep your oven clean. The sides of the pan prevent spills that could occur during baking.
• Watch the boiling time closely – Ensuring you don’t exceed 30 seconds after it comes to a boil helps achieve the right consistency for your caramel. Overcooked caramel can become too hard once cooled.
• Let it cool slightly before adding chocolate – Allowing the caramel to settle for just one minute before pouring the melted chocolate prevents it from mixing in too much, giving you those lovely layers.
• Chill overnight for best results – While it might be tempting to dig in right away, letting the candy chill overnight allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and makes cutting easier.
• Use quality chocolate – Investing in good-quality semi-sweet chocolate makes all the difference in flavor. It melts better and enhances the overall taste of your candy.

How to Serve Christmas Cracker Candy

When it comes to serving Christmas cracker candy, presentation can elevate this simple treat into something truly festive! Whether you’re enjoying it at home or sharing with friends, here are some creative ideas:

Garnishes

• Sprinkle sea salt on top – A light dusting of flaky sea salt adds a beautiful contrast to the sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
• Drizzle with white chocolate – For an elegant touch, drizzle some melted white chocolate over the finished candy. This not only looks gorgeous but adds another layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa – A warm mug of hot cocoa pairs perfectly with this sweet treat; the creamy richness complements the crunchy candy.
• Peppermint bark – Another holiday favorite, peppermint bark offers a refreshing minty flavor that contrasts nicely with the caramel sweetness.
• Fruit platter – Fresh fruits provide a lighter balance to the rich flavors of the candy. Consider including berries, apple slices, or citrus segments.
• Spiced nuts – A bowl of spiced nuts offers a savory crunch that pairs well with the sweet and salty nature of Christmas cracker candy, creating a delightful mix on your holiday spread.

Enjoy creating and sharing this festive treat—it’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Christmas cracker candy is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time, ensuring you have plenty of treats on hand for the holidays. It’s easy to store and keeps well, making it a great option for busy festive days!

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• If you’re keeping it at room temperature, ensure it’s in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Freezing

• Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
• Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to two months.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this candy! Simply enjoy it straight from the fridge or freezer.
• If you prefer it slightly warm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Have questions about making Christmas cracker candy? Here are some common ones:

Can I use different types of crackers for Christmas Cracker Candy?

Yes, you can substitute saltine crackers with other types of plain crackers like Ritz or Club crackers. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.

How do I make my Christmas Cracker Candy more festive?

To add a festive touch, consider sprinkling crushed peppermint candies, chopped nuts, or holiday-themed sprinkles on top of the melted chocolate before it sets.

How long does Christmas Cracker Candy last?

When stored properly, Christmas cracker candy can last up to one week in the refrigerator or two months if frozen.

Can I make Christmas Cracker Candy without butter?

Yes! You can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Christmas cracker candy as much as I do! It’s not just a treat; it’s a wonderful way to share joy during the holidays. With its perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!