Name: Delicious Christmas Saltine Candy Bars Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 42 saltine crackers; 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter; 1 cup (220 grams) brown sugar; 1 tablespoon (20 grams) light corn syrup; 2 cups (340 grams) semi-sweet chocolate chips; 3 ounces (85 grams) white chocolate, finely chopped; 25-30 pretzels; ½ cup (148 grams) toffee bits

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Christmas Saltine Candy Bars have become a beloved holiday treat that combines the delightful crunch of salted crackers with rich, buttery caramel and luscious chocolate. This festive dessert is perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply as a sweet snack to enjoy during the holidays. The mix of textures and flavors creates an irresistible treat that captivates everyone who tries it. Let’s dive into how to make these amazing bars!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Saltine Candy Bars

These Christmas Saltine Candy Bars offer a multitude of reasons to fall in love! First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a go-to for busy holiday schedules. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of holiday Saltine candy recipe that will impress your friends and family. The harmonious blend of sweet and salty flavors makes them a fan favorite for sweet and salty Christmas snacks. Not to mention, they are perfect for gifting during the holiday season or serving at festive gatherings. You’ll find yourself making these every year as they have become a classic among Christmas candy bars.

Ingredients for Christmas Saltine Candy Bars

Gather these items:

42 saltine crackers
1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter
1 cup (220 grams) brown sugar
1 tablespoon (20 grams) light corn syrup
2 cups (340 grams) semi-sweet chocolate chips
3 ounces (85 grams) white chocolate, finely chopped
25-30 pretzels
½ cup (148 grams) toffee bits

How to Make Christmas Saltine Candy Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, then arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer to cover the entire pan. Set aside.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and light corn syrup. Heat over medium while stirring continuously with a rubber spatula. Allow the butter to melt and the mixture to bubble, then continue cooking and stirring until the sugar fully dissolves and the caramel is smooth and bubbling, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Carefully pour the hot caramel evenly over the saltine crackers, spreading it out with a spatula to cover all crackers uniformly. Immediately place the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 3–4 minutes until the caramel starts bubbling again. Remove from oven promptly.
Step 4: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the bubbling caramel layer. Return the pan to the oven for about 1 minute just until the chocolate chips are soft and beginning to melt.
Step 5: Remove the pan from the oven and use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate chips evenly over the caramel coating.
Step 6: Place finely chopped white chocolate into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
Step 7: Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the chocolate layer. Using a wooden skewer, create swirls by moving horizontally from left to right on one row, then from right to left on the next, alternating directions as you move down the pan for a decorative marbled effect.
Step 8: Immediately sprinkle the pretzels and toffee bits evenly over the top of the chocolate layers to ensure they stick as the chocolate hardens.
Step 9: Transfer the tray to the refrigerator and chill for 1–2 hours until fully hardened. Alternatively, place in the freezer for about 20 minutes for quicker setting.
Step 10: Once set, remove the candy from the fridge or freezer. Carefully peel off the parchment paper from the bottom. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares or triangles, or simply break into pieces by hand.
Step 11: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Saltine Candy Bars

Keep these in mind:

Ensure that the caramel reaches the right temperature for the best texture. Using a candy thermometer can help.
Try adding different toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles for an added festive touch.
Keep an eye on the baking time; you want the caramel to bubble, but not burn.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Saltine Candy Bars

There are several delightful ways to serve these Christmas Saltine Candy Bars. First, cut them into small bite-sized pieces for a perfect party treat. They also make a fantastic addition to gift baskets filled with homemade holiday candy bars. For a festive look, serve them on a decorative platter alongside other sweet and salty Christmas snacks.

Delicious Christmas Saltine Candy Bars Recipe - Christmas Saltine Candy Bars - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Saltine Candy Bars

To store your Christmas Saltine Candy Bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. They can last up to two weeks, making them a great option for meal prep during the holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Saltine Candy Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Saltine Candy Bars?

The secret lies in achieving the perfect caramel consistency. Make sure to stir continuously and reach the right temperature for a smooth texture.

Can I make Christmas Saltine Candy Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them perfect for holiday meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Saltine Candy Bars?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure that the caramel doesn’t overcook and that you evenly distribute the chocolate for a uniform layer. It’s crucial for the texture and taste!

Variations of Christmas Saltine Candy Bars You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with your Christmas Saltine Candy Bars by adding different toppings or flavors. For instance, try using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste. You can also incorporate peanut butter or caramel drizzle for a unique twist. These variations cater to various dietary preferences and can be a hit during your holiday gatherings.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for a delightful treat. If you’re looking for a festive dessert, our mini cranberry cheesecakes are a perfect choice!

Additionally, you can learn more about the science of caramelization in this Scientific American article.