Cracker Candy Recipe

Are you looking for the perfect holiday dessert that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious? Look no further than Cracker Candy! With a balance of sweet, salty, and buttery flavors, this candy has a magical combination that makes it a favorite holiday snack for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients for Cracker Candy

Before we begin, let’s gather all the ingredients required for this delicious cracker candy. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—just a handful of common pantry staples come together to make this holiday treat.

Essential Ingredients Breakdown

• 28 to 35 saltine crackers (about one sleeve): These provide the crispy base for the candy. Their salty flavor balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup (220g) firmly packed dark brown sugar: For the caramel, dark brown sugar offers a deep, molasses-like sweetness.
• 1 cup (225g or 2 sticks) unsalted butter: The butter helps create the rich caramel sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Adds just the right amount of seasoning to balance the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the caramel.
• 2 cups (10 to 12 ounces) chopped semi-sweet chocolate: A good-quality chocolate melts smoothly and pairs perfectly with the caramel and crackers.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutes

• Crackers: While saltine crackers are traditional, you can swap them for Ritz crackers or graham crackers for a slightly different flavor.
• Chocolate: Try experimenting with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for a twist on the classic recipe.
• Toppings: You can add crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Jelly roll pan (10×15-inch)
• Nonstick aluminum foil or regular heavy-duty foil
• Baking spray (if using regular foil)
• Medium-sized saucepan
• Spatula or butter knife
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Chef’s knife for cutting the candy

Step-by-Step: How to Make Cracker Candy

Preparing the Saltine Base

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with nonstick aluminum foil. If you only have regular heavy-duty foil, spray it lightly with baking spray to prevent sticking. Now, arrange your saltine crackers in a single layer, covering the bottom of the pan. You may need around 28 to 35 crackers, depending on the size of your pan. Ensure they’re tightly packed with no gaps.

Making the Caramel Sauce

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar, unsalted butter, and kosher salt. Place it over medium heat, stirring frequently until the butter has completely melted. Once melted, continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly. The mixture should come to a boil and start to darken slightly. Be careful not to overcook—the sugar should emulsify into the butter, creating a smooth caramel sauce.

Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the hot caramel sauce over the arranged crackers, making sure to spread it evenly so that all crackers are coated.

Baking the Crackers

Now that the caramel is in place, transfer the pan to the oven. Bake at 400°F for 5 minutes. You’ll notice the caramel bubbling across the surface—this is a good sign that the caramel is cooking properly. Keep an eye on the crackers during this step. Over-baking can cause the caramel to harden too much, making the candy difficult to cut later on.

Melting the Chocolate

While your crackers are baking, it’s time to melt the chocolate. Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring after each burst. It should take about 1 1/2 minutes for the chocolate to melt completely. Stir thoroughly to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.

Spreading the Chocolate on Crackers

Once the crackers are out of the oven, allow them to cool for exactly one minute. This brief cooling period allows the caramel to settle while still remaining pliable. Pour the melted chocolate over the crackers, and use a spatula or butter knife to spread the chocolate evenly across the top. Make sure each cracker is fully coated.

Chilling and Cutting the Candy

Allow the candy to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it chill overnight. This step is crucial, as the candy needs time to set completely. Once chilled, the crackers will form a solid sheet of candy.

To serve, gently remove the candy from the pan by peeling away the foil. Cut the sheet into bite-sized pieces using a chef’s knife. You can also break the candy apart by hand if you prefer a more rustic look.

Storing and Shelf Life

Once your Cracker Candy is cut into pieces, store it in an airtight container. It will last for about a week in the refrigerator. If you want to keep it longer, store the candy in the freezer. Layer the pieces between sheets of parchment paper and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the candy at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For serving, try placing the candy on a tiered platter with other holiday treats like cookies and fudge. The salty-sweet flavor of this candy pairs wonderfully with hot cocoa or coffee.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the caramel: Make sure not to let the caramel boil for longer than 30 seconds once it reaches a rolling boil. Overcooking will result in hard, brittle caramel.
• Uneven chocolate spreading: Use a spatula or knife to evenly spread the melted chocolate across the crackers. Thin or uneven chocolate layers may result in cracks.
• Skipping the chilling step: Don’t rush the chilling process. The candy needs time to set properly to achieve the right texture.

Cracker Candy Variations

For a creative twist, try these variations on the traditional recipe:

• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds on top of the chocolate layer before it sets.
• Peppermint twist: Crush peppermint candies and sprinkle them on the chocolate for a festive flair.
• White chocolate version: Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate to create a milder, creamier version of this treat.

FAQ

Can I use other types of crackers instead of saltines?
Yes, you can substitute saltines with graham crackers or Ritz crackers for a different flavor and texture.

What can I use if I don’t have a jelly roll pan?
If you don’t have a jelly roll pan, use any shallow baking sheet with raised edges to prevent the caramel from spilling over.

Can I make this candy ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cracker Candy is perfect for making ahead. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for up to two months.

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