Of course! Crockpot Christmas Crack is a legendary holiday treat for a reason. It’s incredibly easy, dangerously addictive, and a perfect recipe for a slow cooker.
The classic version is made with saltines, but I’ll also include a popular graham cracker variation.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to making the perfect batch.
The Classic: Saltine Cracker Christmas Crack
This version has the perfect sweet-and-salty combination that makes it so irresistible.
Ingredients
· 1 sleeve (about 40) saltine crackers
· 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
· 1 cup packed light brown sugar
· 1 bag (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
· 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts are classic), optional
· Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Crockpot: Line your slow cooker with parchment paper. This is the most important step for easy removal! Make sure the paper goes up the sides. (A liner bag also works, but parchment is best for heat conduction).
- Create the Base: Place a single, even layer of saltine crackers in the bottom of the crockpot, breaking them as needed to fit and cover the base completely.
- Make the Toffee: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Bring it to a boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, let it boil for 3 minutes without stirring. It should become smooth and slightly thickened.
- First Layer: Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the crackers in the crockpot. Use a spatula to spread it gently to cover all the crackers.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours. This step slowly caramelizes the toffee and bakes the base.
- Chocolate Layer: After the cooking time is up, turn off the crockpot. Immediately sprinkle the entire bag of chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee layer. Let them sit for 2-3 minutes to melt, then use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate into an even layer.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped nuts and a pinch of sea salt flakes (if using) while the chocolate is still wet.
- Cool Completely: Carefully lift the parchment paper to remove the entire slab of crack from the crockpot. Place it on a wire rack or baking sheet and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. For a faster set, you can place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Break and Serve: Once the chocolate is fully set, break it into irregular pieces with your hands. Store in an airtight container at room temperature (if your house is cool) or in the fridge.
Variation: Graham Cracker Christmas Crack
This version is sweeter and more buttery, reminiscent of a s’more.
Ingredients & Instructions
Follow the same instructions as above, but make these swaps:
· Instead of saltines, use a single layer of honey graham crackers (break them to fit).
· The toffee layer is made the same way (1 cup butter + 1 cup brown sugar).
· After the low cook time, top with:
· 1 bag (12 oz) milk chocolate chips (semi-sweet works too)
· 1 cup mini marshmallows (sprinkled on right after the chocolate)
· Optional: Crushed graham cracker pieces for topping.
Tips for Success & FAQs
· Parchment is Non-Negotiable: Without it, you’ll have a sticky, impossible-to-clean mess and your crack will be difficult to remove in one piece.
· Don’t Stir the Toffee: Let it boil for the full 3 minutes without stirring. This allows it to reach the proper temperature and consistency.
· High Altitude Adjustment: If you live at a high altitude, your toffee may need to boil for an extra minute to prevent it from being too soft.
· Why is my crack chewy/sticky? This usually means the toffee didn’t reach a high enough temperature or wasn’t boiled long enough. Ensure your mixture comes to a full, rolling boil for the full time.
· Can I make this in the oven? Absolutely! The classic method is a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5 minutes after assembling the toffee and crackers on a baking sheet, then topping with chocolate. The crockpot method is just famously easy and hands-off.
· Gifting Idea: This stuff makes a fantastic homemade gift. Place broken pieces in a cellophane bag tied with a festive ribbon or in a cute holiday tin.
Enjoy your delicious, addictive holiday treat