Crunchy Chocolate Saltine Toffee with Buttery Caramel Crust

Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users

Cuisine

American

Servings

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Calories

195

Saltine Toffee, affectionately dubbed “Christmas Crack,” is a wildly addictive sweet treat that combines buttery caramel, crisp crackers, and rich chocolate in a magical balance of sweet and salty.

It starts with humble saltine crackers, which become a golden base for a luscious layer of homemade caramel sauce. Topped with melted chocolate and optional goodies like chopped nuts, sprinkles, or flaky sea salt, this candy is an effortless indulgence that delivers major flavour in every bite.

What makes Saltine Toffee truly special is how incredibly easy it is to prepare, yet how impressive and satisfying the final result can be. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can create a batch in under 30 minutes and have it ready to serve or gift after a quick chill.

It’s perfect for holiday trays, potlucks, teacher gifts, or just a cozy night in. One batch goes a long way — though don't be surprised when it disappears fast! This is one of those nostalgic, bite-sized pleasures that brings smiles with every crunchy, chocolatey square.

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Ingredients

1 sleeve (about 40) saltine crackers
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional toppings: chopped pecans, sea salt, sprinkles, crushed candy canes

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Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminium foil and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Arrange saltine crackers in a single layer, edge to edge, on the prepared baking sheet.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring constantly.
Once it reaches a boil, continue boiling for 3 minutes without stirring. The mixture should thicken and become bubbly.
Carefully pour the caramel mixture over the crackers and use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Bake in the oven for 5 minutes until the caramel is bubbling.
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel layer.
Let sit for 2–3 minutes until softened, then spread the melted chocolate evenly with a spatula.
Top with desired toppings (nuts, sea salt, etc.).
Cool completely, then refrigerate for 1 hour before breaking into pieces.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
per serving: Calories; 195

Amount/Serving % Daily Value

Fat: 12 grams; 15%
Saturated Fat: 7 grams; 35%
Cholesterol: 20 milligrams; 7%
Sodium: 95 milligrams; 4%
Carbs: 22 grams; 8%
Protein: 1 grams
Sugar: 18 grams
Fiber: 1 grams; 4%

10 Tips to Keep in Mind When Making Saltine Toffee

Use regular saltines — avoid low-sodium or flavoured varieties.
Line your pan well with foil and spray — cleanup is a breeze this way.
Stir butter and sugar constantly until it starts boiling.
Once boiling, do NOT stir — just let it bubble for exactly 3 minutes.
Pour caramel quickly and spread before it firms up.
Let the chocolate chips sit for a few minutes to melt before spreading.
Add toppings while chocolate is still soft.
Chill the finished bark in the fridge to set faster.
Break into uneven chunks for that rustic toffee look.
Store in an airtight container at room temp for a week or refrigerate to keep it longer.

Serve It With Suggestions

Holiday dessert trays
Hot cocoa or spiced tea
Crushed over ice cream or yogurt
As a crunchy layer in trifles
Paired with sweet dessert wines or coffee liqueur
Packaged in gift bags for festive treats
Tucked into lunchboxes or picnic baskets
Alongside cookies and fudge for variety
Crumbled over cheesecake
With fresh berries for a sweet-salty twist

FAQ's

Q: Can I use a different type of cracker?
A: Yes! Try graham crackers, Ritz, or even matzo for a twist.

Q: Why is my caramel grainy?
A: It may have been over-stirred after boiling or cooked too long. Stick to 3 minutes of boiling.

Q: Can I freeze Saltine Toffee?
A: Yes, freeze in layers with parchment paper between pieces in an airtight container.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 5–7 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Q: Can I use white or dark chocolate instead?
A: Absolutely! Use any chocolate chips you like.

Q: What toppings work best?
A: Sea salt, chopped nuts, sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or toffee bits are all great options.

Q: Is it gluten-free?
A: Not with traditional saltines, but you can substitute with gluten-free crackers.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, use a larger sheet pan or two pans to accommodate more.

Q: Can kids help make this?
A: Older kids can help with topping and breaking the bark, but be cautious around hot caramel.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips — results may vary slightly.

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Crunchy Chocolate Saltine Toffee with Buttery Caramel Crust