Description
Is there anything more addictive than the combination of salty, sweet, crunchy, and buttery flavors all in one bite? Often called “saltine toffee” or “cracker candy,” this holiday staple earns its notorious nickname because it is simply impossible to eat just one piece. The magic lies in the transformation of humble ingredients—saltine crackers and butter—into a gourmet-level confection. It is the perfect solution for last-minute gifting or a cozy movie night.
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve (approx. 35) Saltine Crackers (or RITZ Crackers®)
- 1 cup Light Brown Sugar, firmly packed
- 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter, cubed
- 1/8 teaspoon Sea Salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
- 1 package (10-12 oz) Chocolate Chips (Semi-sweet, milk, or dark)
- As desired Nuts, candy bits, or sea salt flakes (optional toppings)
Instructions
- Preheat and Arrange: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet (jelly roll pan) with parchment paper or heavy-duty foil. Crucially, grease the liner liberally with butter or cooking spray. Arrange crackers in a single layer, edge-to-edge.
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Create the Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, boil the brown sugar and butter. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook for exactly 3 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened and glossy. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt (careful, it will bubble!).
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Pour and Bake: Pour the hot caramel over the crackers and spread quickly to coat. Bake for 6 minutes. The caramel should bubble vigorously across the pan; watch edges to prevent burning.
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The Chocolate Layer: Remove from oven. Immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let sit for 5 minutes so the residual heat melts the chocolate. Spread into a smooth layer. Add toppings if desired.
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Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until completely set. Lift from the pan and crack into rustic chunks.
Notes
- Grease the Pan: Do not skip greasing your foil or parchment paper! The toffee is extremely sticky and will fuse to the liner if it isn’t greased well.
- The 3-Minute Rule: Timing is chemistry here. Simmering the butter and sugar for exactly 3 minutes ensures the caramel sets properly and has that signature crunch without being chewy or separating.
- Melting Chocolate: Be patient in step 4. Letting the chips sit for a full 5 minutes ensures they melt evenly from the heat of the toffee, making them easy to spread without seizing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy, Holiday
- Method: Baking, Candy Making
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 180 kcal
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Protein: 1 g
