Get ready to transform your holiday dessert game with the most addictive sweet treat you'll ever encounter! This Bourbon Maple Pecan Christmas Crack is not just a dessert - it's a mind-blowing experience that combines the rich warmth of bourbon, the sweet complexity of maple syrup, and the crunch of toasted pecans. Imagine a dessert so irresistible that it literally earns the name "crack" - because once you start, you won't be able to stop. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or looking for the perfect homemade gift, this recipe will have everyone begging for more!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 pieces
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon bourbon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, ensuring complete coverage with slight overhang for easy removal.
- Arrange saltine crackers in a single, tight layer across the entire baking sheet, breaking crackers if necessary to fill any gaps completely.
- In a medium saucepan, combine unsalted butter and brown sugar. Heat over medium-high, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to boil and becomes smooth and fully integrated.
- Add maple syrup to the butter-sugar mixture and continue cooking, stirring continuously, until the caramel reaches a rich amber color and starts to bubble vigorously (approximately 3-4 minutes).
- Carefully pour the hot caramel evenly over the arranged saltine crackers, using a spatula to spread it completely and ensure full coverage.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the caramel is bubbling across the entire surface.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chopped pecans across the hot caramel layer.
- Distribute chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel and pecans, allowing the residual heat to naturally melt the chocolate.
- Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread the melted chocolate into an even layer.
- Drizzle bourbon across the chocolate surface for additional flavor complexity.
- Allow the bark to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for 1-2 hours until fully set.
- Break or cut the hardened bark into irregular pieces, approximately 24 servings.
- Store in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better your butter, maple syrup, and bourbon, the more extraordinary your Christmas Crack will taste.
- Watch the caramel carefully: When cooking the butter and brown sugar, stir constantly and remove from heat the moment it reaches a rich amber color to prevent burning.
- Ensure even coverage: When spreading caramel and chocolate, use a spatula to create a uniform layer for consistent flavor and texture.
- Let it cool completely: Patience is key! Allow the bark to set fully in the refrigerator to achieve that perfect snap and texture.
- Store properly: Keep your Christmas Crack in an airtight container with parchment between layers to maintain its crisp texture and prevent sticking.
- Experiment with variations: Try different nuts or add a sprinkle of sea salt for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 25mg
