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Saltine Toffee Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 134 reviews

Saltine Toffee, also known as Christmas Crack, is a simple and delicious treat combining a salty cracker base with buttery caramel toffee, melted chocolate, and optional nuts and sea salt topping. This easy dessert offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors with a crunchy texture, making it a popular holiday or anytime treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 40 saltine crackers (one full sleeve)

Toffee Layer

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup light brown sugar

Topping

  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or your preferred type)
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
  2. Arrange Crackers: Place the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, covering the entire surface without overlapping.
  3. Melt Butter and Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and light brown sugar together, stirring continuously until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
  4. Cook Toffee: Let the mixture boil undisturbed for about 3 minutes until it thickens slightly and turns a deep caramel color, reaching roughly 265°F to 280°F if using a candy thermometer.
  5. Pour Toffee Over Crackers: Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the arranged saltines. Use a spatula to spread it gently if needed, ensuring all crackers are well-coated.
  6. Bake Toffee: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the toffee is bubbly and slightly darkened.
  7. Add Chocolate: Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let them sit for 2-3 minutes until softened, then use an offset spatula or knife to spread the melted chocolate evenly across the surface.
  8. Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the melted chocolate while it’s still warm. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an extra flavor boost.
  9. Cool and Set: Allow the toffee to cool at room temperature until set, about 1-2 hours. Once completely cooled, break it into pieces by hand or using a sharp knife.
  10. Store: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for a firmer texture for up to two weeks.

Notes

  • Line the baking pan well with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking.
  • Use a single, tight layer of saltine crackers to create a sturdy base.
  • Do not stir the toffee mixture once boiling to avoid crystallization and graininess.
  • Cook the toffee to a hard ball stage temperature (265°F–280°F) for best results.
  • Pour and spread the hot toffee quickly and evenly for uniform coating.
  • Bake at 350°F to 400°F for 5-8 minutes until toffee bubbles and caramelizes.
  • Add chocolate chips immediately after baking and spread while melted.
  • Optional toppings like nuts and flaky sea salt add delicious texture and flavor.
  • Allow toffee to cool completely before breaking to ensure crisp texture.
  • Store in an airtight container with parchment layers between pieces to prevent sticking.
  • Freeze leftovers up to 3 months; thaw before serving.

Keywords: Saltine Toffee, Christmas Crack, saltine cracker toffee, easy toffee recipe, caramel toffee, chocolate toffee, holiday treats, simple dessert snack

Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/saltine-toffee-recipe/