The Best Cracker Candy

Imagine a dessert that’s crunchy, buttery, sweet, and salty all at once—and only takes minutes to make. That’s the magic of Cracker Candy, also known as “Cracker Toffee” or “Christmas Crack.” This classic treat has earned a permanent spot at holiday tables across the South, but it’s just as perfect for a casual family night or a last-minute party dessert. With its caramel-coated crackers, rich chocolate topping, and endless topping options, this recipe is simple, fun, and guaranteed to impress.

If you love easy sweets like Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels or Peanut Butter Balls, you’ll quickly see why Cracker Candy is about to become your new go-to treat.

What is Cracker Candy?

At first glance, “Cracker Candy” might sound plain—but don’t let the name fool you. The recipe takes ordinary saltine crackers and transforms them into a candy-like creation layered with buttery caramel and melted chocolate. Once cooled, the sheet breaks into crunchy, toffee-like pieces that are completely addictive.

This sweet-and-salty combo is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, gift boxes, or just sneaking bites straight from the fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet + Salty Balance: The buttery caramel and chocolate topping pair perfectly with salty crackers.

• Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry staples come together to create an indulgent treat without breaking the bank.

• Customizable: Add nuts, sprinkles, pretzels, or even a dash of sea salt to make it your own.

• Quick & Easy: Prep takes about 15 minutes, and the hardest part is waiting for it to cool!

If you’re a fan of snacks like caramel popcorn, this is right up your alley.

How to Make Cracker Candy

Ingredients

• 1 sleeve saltine crackers (about 40)

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 cup chopped toasted nuts (optional—pecans or walnuts work great)

• Sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange crackers in a single layer.

2. Make the caramel: Melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until it boils, then let it bubble for 3 minutes without stirring.

3. Pour & bake: Carefully pour caramel over the crackers, spreading evenly. Bake for 5–7 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

4. Add chocolate: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Let them sit for 2 minutes, then spread into a smooth layer.

5. Finish with toppings: Add nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt.

6. Cool & set: Let cool for 1 hour at room temp, then refrigerate 30 minutes before breaking into pieces.

Serving Ideas

• With coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up

• Packaged in a festive tin for holiday gifts

• Paired with fresh fruit like strawberries or apples for balance

• Crumbled over ice cream for an extra-decadent dessert

Tips for Success

• Use quality chocolate: It makes a big difference in flavor.

• Even coating matters: Spread caramel quickly and evenly for best results.

• Get creative: Try pretzels, shredded coconut, or even crushed candy canes on top.

• Watch the bake time: Overbaking will make the caramel too hard—aim for just bubbly and golden.

Storage

• Room temp: Airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

• Fridge: Keeps well for about 1 month.

• Freezer: Wrap pieces individually and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

With its perfect balance of sweet, salty, crunchy, and chocolatey, Cracker Candy is the kind of recipe you’ll want to make on repeat. Whether it’s for the holidays, a party, or just a little everyday indulgence, one bite and you’ll see why it’s called the best.

Cracker Candy

A quick and easy treat featuring a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors with a buttery, caramel layer over crunchy crackers.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 minutes mins

Total Time 22 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 sleeve Saltine Crackers (about 40 crackers)
• 1 cup Unsalted Butter (2 sticks)
• 1 cup Brown Sugar packed
• 2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
• 1 cup Chopped Nuts (optional, toasted; like pecans or walnuts)
• Sea Salt for sprinkling on top

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer, covering the entire sheet.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and brown sugar together. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for about 3 minutes without stirring until it's bubbly.
3. Carefully pour the caramel mixture evenly over the arranged saltine crackers, ensuring each one is covered.
4. Place the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and golden.
5. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Allow them to sit for a couple of minutes, then spread the melted chocolate into an even layer.
6. If desired, sprinkle the chopped nuts and a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate layer for added texture and flavor.
7. Allow the Cracker Candy to cool for about 1 hour at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set completely before breaking into pieces.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Can be refrigerated for a month or frozen for longer storage.