Christmas Crack (Saltine Bark)

Name: Christmas Crack (Saltine Bark)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 servings
Ingredients: 40 Saltine crackers; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 cups chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); Sea salt for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

This festive treat combines the crunch of Saltine crackers with a rich caramel and chocolate topping, making it the perfect holiday snack.

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2025-12-19T13:35:58.312Z

Christmas Crack is a beloved holiday treat that has been making its rounds for decades. Combining the salty crunch of Saltine crackers with a sweet, buttery caramel and rich chocolate, this dessert is perfect for sharing during the festive season.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible combination of salty and sweet flavors
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for holiday gifting or party snacks

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Christmas Crack, also known as Saltine Bark, is a delightful confection that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. The crisp texture of Saltine crackers, combined with the rich caramel and luscious chocolate, creates a treat that is hard to resist. It's not just about the flavors; it's about the experience of enjoying something homemade and festive. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, ensuring that your holiday celebrations are filled with sweet joy.

This treat is versatile too. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, attending a potluck, or looking for the perfect gift for friends and family, Christmas Crack fits the bill. It’s easy to prepare in large batches, making it ideal for sharing. Plus, the addition of nuts adds a delightful crunch and flavor that elevates this simple recipe to a new level of indulgence.

Quick and Simple Preparation

One of the best aspects of this Christmas Crack recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients—Saltine crackers, butter, brown sugar, and chocolate chips—you can whip up this delicious treat in no time. The preparation process is straightforward and requires minimal kitchen equipment, making it accessible for both seasoned bakers and novice cooks alike.

In under 30 minutes, you can create a festive snack that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. This quick turnaround means you can easily fit it into your busy holiday schedule, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones while still impressing them with your culinary skills.

Storing and Gifting Tips

Once your Christmas Crack has cooled and been broken into pieces, it's essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate it for longer shelf life. This ensures that the caramel remains chewy and the chocolate stays smooth, giving you the best experience with every bite.

If you're planning to gift this delightful treat, consider packaging it in decorative cellophane bags or festive tins. Adding a personal touch with a handwritten note or a seasonal ribbon makes it an even more special gift. Your friends and family will appreciate the effort, and they’ll surely be asking for the recipe!

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start.

Ingredients

40 Saltine crackers
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 cups chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Sea salt for sprinkling

Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth preparation.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Christmas Crack.

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, then arrange the Saltine crackers in a single layer.

Make the Caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 3 minutes without stirring.

Combine and Bake

Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the Saltine crackers. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, until bubbly.

Add the Chocolate

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Let sit for a few minutes until the chocolate is melted, then spread evenly.

Cool and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped nuts and sea salt if desired. Allow to cool completely, then break into pieces and serve.

Enjoy your delicious Christmas Crack!

Variations to Try

While the classic version of Christmas Crack is undeniably delicious, there are numerous variations you can explore. For a nutty twist, try adding different types of chopped nuts like pecans or almonds, or even a sprinkle of toffee bits for extra crunch. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as white or dark chocolate, to cater to your personal preferences.

Another fun variation is to incorporate festive flavors like peppermint extract or crushed candy canes. This not only adds a festive touch but also infuses the treat with a refreshing flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate and caramel.

Perfect Pairings

Christmas Crack pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A warm cup of hot chocolate or spiced cider enhances the cozy feeling of the holidays and makes for a perfect snack combo. If you prefer something a little stronger, a glass of red wine or a festive cocktail can elevate your holiday gathering.

For a family movie night, serve Christmas Crack alongside popcorn for a sweet and salty snack experience. This combination creates a delightful contrast that will satisfy all your cravings while you enjoy your favorite holiday films.

Healthier Alternatives

If you're looking for a healthier twist on this indulgent treat, consider using whole grain or low-sodium Saltine crackers. You can also substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative to reduce saturated fats. For those who want to cut down on sugar, using dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content can help satisfy your sweet tooth with less sugar.

Another option is to add healthier toppings like dried fruits or seeds alongside the nuts. This not only adds nutrition but also a burst of flavor and color to your Christmas Crack, making it a more balanced snack option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, you can use other types of crackers, but Saltines provide the perfect balance of saltiness and crunch.

→ How should I store Christmas Crack?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze Christmas Crack?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of chocolate chips?

You can use melted chocolate bars, white chocolate, or even butterscotch chips for a different flavor.