Christmas Crack (Saltine Bark)

Name: Christmas Crack (Saltine Bark)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 sleeve Saltine crackers; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup chopped nuts (optional); Sea salt, for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and salty with this easy-to-make Christmas Crack, also known as Saltine Bark. Perfect for holiday gatherings and gift-giving!

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:49:30.361Z

Christmas Crack is a beloved holiday treat that combines crunchy saltines with a rich caramel and chocolate topping. It’s an addictive snack that is sure to please everyone at your holiday gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and salty flavors that are utterly addictive
Super easy to make with only a few ingredients
Perfect for sharing during the festive season

      

A Sweet and Salty Treat

Christmas Crack, or Saltine Bark, is a holiday favorite that captures the essence of festive snacking. The wonderful combination of buttery caramel, rich chocolate, and crispy Saltine crackers creates a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Its unique flavor profile makes it a standout dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

This treat is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even festive candies. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a thoughtful gift, Christmas Crack is sure to impress and satisfy the sweet tooth of your loved ones.

Simple Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a gourmet dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. The key ingredients—Saltine crackers, butter, brown sugar, and chocolate chips—are pantry staples, making this recipe accessible for everyone, regardless of their cooking experience.

Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of your treat, perfectly balancing the sweet and salty flavors. The addition of optional chopped nuts adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall taste, making every bite an irresistible combination of textures.

The Perfect Holiday Gift

Looking for a homemade gift that will be cherished? Christmas Crack is an excellent choice! It can be easily packaged in decorative tins or cellophane bags, making it a thoughtful and personal gift for friends, family, or coworkers. The presentation can be as festive as your heart desires, adding to the excitement of receiving this delicious treat.

Not only is it enjoyable to eat, but it also makes for a fantastic conversation starter at holiday gatherings. Sharing this delightful dessert creates memorable moments and brings everyone together, making it a staple at any festive celebration. Don't forget to make an extra batch for yourself—you'll want to savor every last piece!

Ingredients

For the Bark

1 sleeve Saltine crackers
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Sea salt, for sprinkling

Make sure to prepare all the ingredients before starting the process for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the Saltine crackers in a single layer.

Make the Caramel

In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil. Let it boil for 3-4 minutes without stirring.

Pour Caramel Over Crackers

Pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the Saltine crackers, spreading it out with a spatula.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, until the caramel is bubbly.

Add Chocolate

Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Let them sit for a couple of minutes to melt, then spread the melted chocolate evenly.

Sprinkle with Sea Salt

If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts and sea salt on top before the chocolate sets.

Cool and Break

Let the bark cool completely before breaking it into pieces.

Store in an airtight container for up to a week!

Tips for Perfecting Your Christmas Crack

To ensure your Christmas Crack turns out perfectly every time, be mindful of the caramelization process. When boiling the butter and brown sugar, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Stirring constantly until it reaches a gentle boil is crucial; once boiling, resist the urge to stir, as this can cause crystallization.

Additionally, allow the chocolate chips to sit for a few minutes after removing the bark from the oven. This waiting period allows the chips to melt thoroughly, making it easier to spread the chocolate evenly across the caramel layer.

Storing Your Bark

Once your Christmas Crack has cooled and been broken into pieces, storing it correctly is essential for maintaining its freshness. Place the bark in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the bark. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Crack by experimenting with different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored varieties can add a unique twist to the classic recipe. You can also incorporate festive flavors like peppermint extract or crushed candy canes for a seasonal flair.

For those who love spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the caramel for a surprising kick. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences and seasonal celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long does Christmas Crack last?

It can last up to a week if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! Feel free to use milk chocolate or dark chocolate based on your preference.

→ Is it necessary to use nuts?

No, the nuts are optional. You can make it nut-free if preferred.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s a great make-ahead treat for the holidays.