Cracker Candy

There’s a delightful treat that effortlessly brings together the crunchiness of saltine crackers with the rich decadence of caramel and chocolate. If you’re on a quest for a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and salty, your journey ends here with Cracker Candy. This simple recipe transcends the barriers of age and occasion, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a cozy night in. Get ready to learn a recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth and become a household favorite!

Why Make This Recipe

• Cracker Candy combines familiar ingredients in an unexpected and delightful way that’s perfect for everyone.
• It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and simple steps.
• This dessert is versatile—you can customize it with various toppings and flavors to suit your taste.

As you prepare to make this treat, you’ll find that its simplicity hides a depth of flavor that can impress even the most discerning palates.

Easy Method for Cracker Candy

Making Cracker Candy is straightforward and can be broken down into manageable steps. Follow along as we guide you through preparing this deliciously addictive treat.

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of Cracker Candy, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 package (approx. 80-90 individual) saltine crackers
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk, or a mixture)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a large baking sheet (10×15 inches or standard half-sheet) with aluminum foil, ensuring it extends up the sides. For extra non-stick ease, you can optionally cover the foil with parchment paper.

2. Arrange Crackers
   Carefully arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, placing them side-by-side to minimize gaps and create a continuous base.

3. Prepare Caramel Toffee Base
   In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup packed light brown sugar. Place over medium heat and stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a full, rolling boil (approximately 5-7 minutes).

4. Boil and Add Vanilla
   Once the mixture is boiling vigorously, reduce the heat slightly to medium-low while maintaining the rolling boil. Continue to boil for exactly 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Immediately remove from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract (and an optional pinch of fine sea salt).

5. Pour Caramel Over Crackers
   Working quickly, carefully pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the arranged saltine crackers. Use a heat-proof spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread the caramel to the very edges, ensuring a uniform layer.

6. Bake Caramelized Crackers
   Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes. You’ll see the caramel bubble and spread, completely engulfing the crackers, and the edges might turn golden brown.

7. Add and Melt Chocolate
   Immediately after removing the Cracker Candy from the oven, sprinkle the 2 cups of chocolate chips evenly over the hot, bubbly caramel layer. Allow the baking sheet to sit undisturbed for 3-5 minutes to let the chocolate chips soften and melt from the residual heat.

8. Spread Chocolate and Add Toppings
   Once the chocolate chips have melted nicely, use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to gently and evenly spread the melted chocolate over the entire surface. If desired, lightly sprinkle flaky sea salt over the melted chocolate for a gourmet touch and enhanced flavor.

9. Cool and Chill to Set
   Allow the Cracker Candy to cool on the baking sheet at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. For a full set, transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate is firm. Alternatively, you can place it in the freezer for 30-45 minutes for a quicker set.

10. Break and Store
    Once the candy is fully firm and chilled, carefully lift the entire slab off the baking sheet using the foil/parchment. Peel away the lining, placing the slab on a cutting board. Use your hands to break it into irregular pieces or use a sharp knife for more uniform shapes. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks for a crisper snap.

Storing Leftover Cracker Candy

To keep your Cracker Candy fresh and delicious, follow these tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, keep in the refrigerator where it will last for up to two weeks.
• If you prefer a crunchy texture, avoid freezing, as it may alter the crispness.

Serving Ideas for Cracker Candy

There are countless ways to enjoy your Cracker Candy, depending on your mood or occasion. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Giftable Treats: Wrap individual pieces in decorative cellophane bags for homemade gifts that are perfect for holidays or special occasions.
• At the Party: Serve in a stylish bowl at your next gathering. Guests will flock to the irresistible blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy.
• Dessert Pairing: Complement the candy with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream, elevating the dessert experience.
• As a Snack: Keep a stash handy for an irresistible afternoon snack; it’s great for a quick indulgence at any time of day.
• Kids’ Treat: Ideal for lunchbox surprises, this Cracker Candy will be a hit with children and adults alike.

Tips to Make Cracker Candy

When making Cracker Candy, keep these tips in mind to ensure your result is scrumptious:

• Use Quality Chocolate: The type of chocolate you choose can significantly affect the flavor. Opt for high-quality chocolate chips for a richer taste.
• Monitor the Caramel: When boiling the butter and sugar, pay close attention to the mixture. An overcooked caramel can become too hard.
• Try Different Crackers: If saltines aren’t your style, experiment with other types of crackers like butter, Ritz, or Graham crackers for varied flavors.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to elevate your Cracker Candy experience, consider these fun variations:

• Nutty Twist: Add a layer of chopped nuts (such as pecans or almonds) between the caramel and chocolate for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
• Flavorful Infusions: Infuse the chocolate layer with different flavors by adding a few drops of flavored extract, like peppermint or orange, to create a seasonal delight.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, Cracker Candy can be made ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Q: Can I use different types of chocolate?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to mix semi-sweet, milk, or even dark chocolate chips according to your preference.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

• Try adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the caramel before pouring over the crackers for a sweet and spicy kick.
• Alternatively, use a spiced chocolate blend or toppings, like crushed cinnamon candy, for added heat.

This Cracker Candy recipe is not only easy and quick but also a perfect way to satisfy your sweet cravings without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. This delectable snack is versatile and perfect for various occasions, from holiday parties to simple movie nights on the couch.

As you dive into making your own batch, remember that the joy of creating this dessert lies not only in the final product but also in the simple act of gathering around the table and sharing with loved ones. So grab your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and enjoy this deliciously addictive treat that’s bound to have everyone coming back for more.

Cracker Candy

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

An easy and delightful treat combining the crunchiness of saltine crackers with rich caramel and chocolate, perfect for all occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package (approx. 80-90 individual) saltine crackers
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk, or a mixture)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil.
2. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine butter and light brown sugar, and heat until boiling for 5-7 minutes.
4. Reduce heat and boil for another 3 minutes, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour caramel mixture over the crackers, spreading it to the edges.
6. Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes until caramel bubbles and edges are golden brown.
7. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot caramel and let them soften for 3-5 minutes.
8. Spread melted chocolate evenly over the surface and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
9. Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour, then refrigerate for 1-2 hours until set.
10. Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.

Notes

For a flavor twist, consider adding nuts or flavored extracts to the chocolate layer.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 pieces
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: cracker candy, dessert, easy recipe, sweet treat, holiday dessert