“Holiday staple”: Only 3 ingredients. I make this every Christmas, and it never lasts long.
This festive favorite is well known for being seriously addictive. Using a disposable foil pan keeps cleanup easy and makes these bars convenient to transport for parties or holiday gifting.
3-Ingredient Christmas Crack Bars (Foil Tray Version)
Ingredients
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| Saltine crackers | 1 sleeve (about 35–40) |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Light brown sugar, packed | 1 cup |
| Semisweet chocolate chips (optional) | 1 1/2 cups |
How to Make Christmas Crack Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Set a disposable 9×13-inch foil tray on top of a sturdy baking sheet for easy handling.
Step 2: Arrange the Crackers
Cover the bottom of the foil tray with a single layer of saltine crackers. Break crackers as needed so the base is completely covered with minimal gaps.
Step 3: Cook the Toffee
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the brown sugar. Stir until the mixture comes to a boil, then continue cooking for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until thick and glossy.
Step 4: Spread the Toffee
Carefully pour the hot toffee over the crackers. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring all crackers are coated and the mixture reaches the edges.
Step 5: Bake
Place the tray in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, until the toffee is bubbling and turns a deeper golden color. This step caramelizes the sugar and sets the base.
Step 6: Add Chocolate (Optional)
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let them sit for 2–3 minutes to soften, then spread into a smooth layer.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the toffee fully sets and becomes crisp.
Step 8: Break and Enjoy
Once firm, break into pieces by hand or cut into squares directly in the tray. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them crunchy.
