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Ritz cracker toffee has become my go—to sweet snack when I need something irresistible and easy to whip up for holiday parties or family movie nights. The combination of salty crackers, buttery toffee, and rich chocolate creates the perfect sweet and salty bite that disappears fast every single time I make it. If you have never tried making Christmas Crack before, this version with ritz crackers gives it an extra buttery crunch that really stands out.
I first made this ritz cracker toffee when my kids had friends over for an impromptu cookie swap. I needed something fast that everyone would love and it has been the most requested treat ever since.
Ingredients
- Ritz crackers about fifty: The foundation of this treat delivers a unique salty crunch Choose fresh crackers for best flavor and texture
- Butter one cup: Unsalted butter is best for controlling saltiness Fresh quality butter results in a richer toffee
- Brown sugar one cup: This adds deep caramel notes and keeps the toffee chewy Light or dark brown sugar works
- Semi sweet chocolate chips ten ounces: Choose a good brand for smooth melting and balanced sweetness Chips melt easily for that perfect chocolate layer
Instructions
- Prep the Baking Sheet:
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean—up easier
- Arrange the Ritz Crackers:
- Spread the crackers out in rows across the prepared sheet Make sure they touch but do not overlap so the toffee covers them evenly
- Make the Toffee:
- Combine the butter and brown sugar in a saucepan Bring to a boil over medium heat stirring constantly for two to three minutes until the mixture thickens and turns golden
- Pour and Spread the Toffee:
- Carefully pour the hot toffee over the arranged crackers Use a rubber spatula to spread the mixture completely covering every cracker for uniform flavor
- Bake the Base:
- Bake the sheet at three hundred fifty degrees for three to five minutes until the edges of the toffee are bubbling and turning brown Watch closely to avoid burning
- Add and Melt the Chocolate:
- Remove from the oven Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot toffee Let them sit for about five minutes so the heat melts the chips
- Spread the Chocolate Layer:
- Using the back of a spoon or a rubber spatula gently spread the softened chocolate evenly over the toffee
- Chill to Set:
- Transfer the pan to your fridge or freezer for one to two hours until the chocolate is firm and the toffee is completely set
- Break into Pieces:
- Once fully chilled break the slab into rustic pieces by hand for that signature toffee look
- Storage:
- Keep extra ritz cracker toffee in an airtight container or bag in the freezer to maintain crispness and freshness
The best part about this recipe is how the buttery flavor of ritz crackers comes through with the caramel toffee. Once I made it for our family game night and my youngest declared it her favorite dessert ever.
Storage Tips
Ritz cracker toffee holds up best when stored in the freezer The chocolate stays firm and the crackers retain their crispness Layer pieces between parchment paper in an airtight container to keep them from sticking together For short term storage you can keep the pieces at room temperature for about three days though they do soften
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the ritz crackers for saltines or club crackers for a slightly different crunch If you only have milk chocolate chips on hand the flavor will be sweeter and less intense Dairy free butter works for a vegan version and still yields a chewy toffee but check your chocolate chips for dairy as well
Serving Suggestions
Serve this toffee as part of a festive dessert platter with other cookies and candies For a gift bundle wrap pieces in cellophane bags tied with ribbon Sprinkle a little flaky salt or chopped nuts on top of the chocolate layer before chilling for extra flair
Cultural Context
Known as Christmas Crack in many households this toffee treat has become a staple at American holiday tables Kids love helping break apart the pieces and many families make a batch as part of their annual cookie swap traditions Its roots can be traced to vintage American community cookbooks celebrating easy sweets from pantry standbys
Seasonal Adaptations
Top with red and green sprinkles for a holiday look Stir in holiday spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a winter twist Swap in white chocolate and colored candies for themed parties
Success Stories
I shared a tin of ritz cracker toffee with my neighbors last Christmas and I had recipe requests coming in for weeks My aunt even made it for her bridge club and won over new fans who had never tried a cracker candy before
Freezer Meal Conversion
This toffee is an ideal make ahead dessert You can freeze the entire tray before breaking into pieces and store for up to two months Take out a handful whenever you are hosting or craving a sweet treat Let them come to room temperature for a softer bite or eat straight from the freezer for extra crunch
Enjoy this delightful treat any time you need a sweet and salty bite. Ritz cracker toffee is sure to become a favorite in your family, too.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different type of cracker?
Yes, you can substitute with saltines or other crisp crackers, though the buttery flavor of Ritz enhances the treat.
- → How do I know when the toffee mixture is ready?
The toffee is ready when it thickens and bubbles, taking on a deep amber color after about 2-3 minutes of boiling.
- → Should I use semi sweet or milk chocolate chips?
Semi sweet chips balance the sweetness best, but milk or dark chocolate can be used for different flavor profiles.
- → Why refrigerate or freeze the toffee?
Chilling helps the chocolate set and creates a firm texture, making it easier to break into pieces and store.
- → How should I store this treat for maximum freshness?
Keep it in an airtight container in the freezer for the crispiest texture and longest storage life.
- → Can I add toppings?
Chopped nuts, sprinkles, or a drizzle of white chocolate can be added after spreading the chocolate layer.