Christmas Crack (Saltine Bark)

Name: Christmas Crack (Saltine Bark)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 40 Saltine crackers; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup chopped nuts (optional); Sea salt for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

This festive treat combines salty and sweet flavors, making it a perfect holiday indulgence.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:30:53.822Z

Christmas Crack is a beloved holiday treat that combines the perfect balance of sweet and salty. It’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gifting or enjoying at home.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy saltines
Easy to make with just a few ingredients
Perfect for sharing during the holiday season

      

A Perfect Holiday Treat

Christmas Crack, also known as Saltine Bark, is the ultimate holiday treat that brings joy to any gathering. This delightful combination of salty and sweet flavors makes it an irresistible indulgence for both kids and adults alike. The contrast between the crunchy Saltine crackers and the rich chocolate creates a memorable snacking experience that will leave everyone asking for more.

What truly makes this treat stand out is its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings, whether that's a sprinkle of crushed peppermint for a festive touch or a mix of nuts for added crunch. This adaptability ensures that everyone can enjoy a version of Christmas Crack that suits their taste preferences, making it a hit for holiday parties and gift-giving.

Easy to Make and Share

One of the best aspects of Christmas Crack is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch in no time. This ease of preparation allows you to involve your family and friends in the process, turning it into a fun holiday activity. Kids will love helping out, whether it's arranging the crackers or sprinkling the toppings.

Once made, this treat is perfect for sharing. Package it in festive tins or wrap it in cellophane to give as gifts to neighbors, friends, or coworkers. The delightful presentation combined with the delicious flavor makes it a thoughtful gesture during the holiday season. Plus, it's a great way to spread some cheer and create lasting memories.

Ingredients

For the Bark

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

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting for a smoother process!

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Sheet

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

Make the Toffee

In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring until it reaches a boil. Let it boil for 3 minutes without stirring, then remove from heat.

Combine and Bake

Pour the hot toffee over the crackers, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes until bubbly. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips on top.

Finish the Bark

Let the chocolate chips sit for a few minutes to melt, then spread the melted chocolate evenly. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and sea salt if desired. Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces.

Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Storing Your Christmas Crack

To keep your Christmas Crack fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain the crispness of the Saltine crackers and the texture of the chocolate. If you happen to have any leftovers, they can be kept for up to two weeks, although we doubt they will last that long!

For longer storage, you can also freeze the bark. Simply place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours. This way, you can savor the festive flavors even after the holidays have ended.

Variations to Try

Get creative with your Christmas Crack by trying different chocolate types and toppings. Dark chocolate offers a richer flavor, while white chocolate provides a sweeter contrast. You can also experiment with flavored chocolate such as mint or caramel for an extra twist.

Consider adding layer upon layer of flavor with toppings like crushed pretzels, toffee bits, or drizzles of caramel sauce. Each variation can create a unique treat that caters to different palates, ensuring that your Christmas Crack remains a delightful surprise each time you make it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, you can use graham crackers or pretzel crisps for a different flavor.

→ How should I store Christmas Crack?

Store it 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 2 months. Just make sure it's well-wrapped.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute if needed.