The holidays are a magical time, filled with joy, laughter, and of course, delicious treats. One of the most beloved holiday snacks is none other than Christmas Crack. This sweet and salty treat is a delightful combination of crunchy saltine crackers, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate, topped with colorful sprinkles for that festive flair. Easy to make and even easier to devour, this Christmas Crack recipe will become a favorite in your holiday repertoire. Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will light up your holiday gatherings!
What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes our Christmas Crack recipe truly special is its simplicity and the balance of flavors it offers. The buttery caramel pairs beautifully with the saltiness of the crackers, while the semi-sweet chocolate adds a luscious finish. This recipe is not just about the taste; it’s about the joy of creating something that brings people together. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite toppings, from nuts to crushed candies.
What to Buy
To make this scrumptious Christmas Crack, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s a detailed shopping list:
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers (about 35-40 crackers)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Sprinkles (for decoration)
These ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store, ensuring you can whip up this delightful treat without any hassle.
Prep & Cook Tools
Before you get started with your Christmas Crack, gather the following tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable:
- Baking sheet – A standard size will work perfectly.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – To line your baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Medium saucepan – For melting the butter and sugar.
- Spatula – To spread the caramel and chocolate evenly.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot items!
With your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to embark on the delicious journey of making Christmas Crack.
From Start to Finish: Christmas Crack Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your Christmas Crack bakes evenly and perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This step is crucial for easy removal and cleanup once your Christmas Crack is done.
Step 3: Arrange the Crackers
Place the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. You can arrange them in a neat grid pattern, ensuring they are tightly packed but not overlapping.
Step 4: Make the Caramel
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter and brown sugar. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Allow it to boil for about 3-4 minutes without stirring, until it turns a deep golden color.
Step 5: Pour the Caramel
Carefully pour the hot caramel over the arranged saltine crackers. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring every cracker is coated in that luscious caramel goodness.
Step 6: Bake the Crackers
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5-6 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Step 7: Add the Chocolate
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Let them sit for a few minutes to soften, then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly across the surface.
Step 8: Top with Sprinkles
Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle colorful sprinkles over the top for that festive touch. You can get creative here—use holiday-themed sprinkles or any you have on hand!
Step 9: Chill and Break
Let the Christmas Crack cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then place it in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to set. Once hardened, break it into pieces and enjoy!
Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to make some healthier adjustments to your Christmas Crack, consider the following options:
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor and less sugar.
- Try coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
- Substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Add nuts or seeds for added protein and healthy fats.
These tweaks can help you enjoy your Christmas Crack guilt-free!
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
Even the best cooks can encounter some issues when making Christmas Crack. Here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Burning the caramel: Keep an eye on the mixture while it’s boiling. Stir it continuously until it reaches the right color.
- Chocolates not melting: If the chocolate chips don’t melt properly, pop the sheet back in the oven for a minute to soften.
- Sticky mess: Using foil or parchment paper helps prevent sticking, making it easier to break apart once set.
Following these tips will ensure your Christmas Crack turns out beautifully every time.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you have any Christmas Crack left over (which is unlikely, but just in case), store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last for about a week, maintaining its crunchiness.
For meal prep, consider making a double batch to share with family and friends or to have on hand for unexpected guests. It’s perfect for holiday cookie trays or as a delightful gift for neighbors and coworkers.
Popular Questions
Can I use other types of crackers?
Absolutely! While saltine crackers are traditional, you can experiment with other types like graham crackers or even pretzels for a unique twist.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Christmas Crack gluten-free, simply swap out the regular saltine crackers for gluten-free versions. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I freeze Christmas Crack?
Yes, you can freeze Christmas Crack! Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
What are some variations I can try?
You can customize your Christmas Crack by adding nuts, using different types of chocolate like white or milk chocolate, or even drizzling caramel or peanut butter over the top after adding the chocolate.
Cook This Next
If you enjoyed making Christmas Crack, consider trying out these delightful recipes:
- Heavenly Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake With A Silky Finish
- Creamy Spinach Alfredo Chicken Roll Ups
- Creamy Garlic Shrimp Linguine With Lemon Zest
Save & Share
If this Christmas Crack recipe made your holiday a little sweeter, don’t forget to save it for later! Share it with friends and family so they can enjoy the magic of this festive treat too. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around.
Indulge in the festive spirit with this easy and delightful Christmas Crack recipe. With its perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors, it’s a treat that will brighten any holiday gathering. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with joy and deliciousness!
Share on Pinterest


Christmas Crack Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- Step 3: Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 4: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter and brown sugar. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Boil for 3-4 minutes until it turns a deep golden color.
- Step 5: Carefully pour the hot caramel over the arranged saltine crackers and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 5-6 minutes until bubbly.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Let sit for a few minutes to soften, then spread the melted chocolate evenly.
- Step 8: Sprinkle colorful sprinkles over the chocolate before it sets.
- Step 9: Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for another 30 minutes to set before breaking into pieces.
Notes
- Experiment with different types of crackers for a unique twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers.
