Get ready to experience the most addictive holiday dessert that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe! This Saltine Toffee Bark, affectionately known as "Christmas Crack," is a magical transformation of simple saltine crackers into a decadent, crispy, and utterly irresistible sweet treat. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you'll create a show-stopping dessert that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. Prepare to become the holiday hero with this mind-blowingly delicious bark that's guaranteed to disappear faster than Santa can slide down the chimney!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 servings
Ingredients
- 40 saltine crackers
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil, ensuring the foil extends over the edges. Spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray.
- Arrange the saltine crackers in a single, tight layer across the entire baking sheet, breaking some crackers if needed to completely cover the bottom of the pan.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and brown sugar together over medium heat. Stir constantly and bring the mixture to a full boil. Continue boiling for exactly 3 minutes without stirring, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Immediately pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the arranged saltine crackers, using a spatula to spread it completely and ensure all crackers are covered.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5-6 minutes, until the toffee is bubbling across the entire surface.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow chocolate to melt completely.
- Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the melted chocolate in a smooth, even layer covering all the toffee.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts over the melted chocolate, pressing them slightly into the surface.
- Allow the bark to cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or place in the refrigerator for faster setting (about 1 hour).
- Once completely cooled and set, lift the foil and break or cut the bark into irregular pieces.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh butter and good chocolate make a huge difference in the final taste.
- Watch the toffee carefully: When boiling butter and sugar, timing is crucial. Exactly 3 minutes of boiling creates the perfect toffee consistency.
- Ensure even coverage: Spread the toffee and chocolate meticulously to guarantee every cracker is coated.
- Cool completely: Allow sufficient cooling time for the bark to set properly and achieve that satisfying crisp texture.
- Customize your bark: Experiment with different chocolate types or add festive toppings like crushed candy canes or sea salt.
- Storage tip: Store in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make ahead: This bark can be prepared days in advance, making it perfect for holiday entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 25mg
