Last Updated on October 28, 2025 by recipeinspire

Ritz Cracker Toffee (Christmas Crack): 5 Reasons It’s Holiday Bliss

Are you craving a festive treat that perfectly combines sweet and salty flavors? Look no further than Ritz Cracker Toffee (Christmas Crack)! This delightful concoction, often dubbed “Christmas Crack,” is not only easy to prepare but also offers a unique twist on your traditional holiday desserts. In this post, we’ll explore five reasons why this irresistible treat will make your holiday season feel extra special.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this festive delight:

• Ritz Crackers (2 rows, or about 30 crackers): Their buttery flavor is essential.
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup): Provides richness and keeps the texture smooth.
• Brown Sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 ½ cups): For that decadent topping; consider dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Chopped Nuts (optional, ½ cup): Pecans or walnuts can add an extra crunch.
• Sea Salt (a sprinkle): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

These ingredients come together to create an indulgent treat that will have your holiday guests begging for the recipe.

Timing

From start to finish, making Ritz Cracker Toffee (Christmas Crack) takes approximately 25–30 minutes. This includes 10 minutes of preparation and about 15–20 minutes of baking. That’s about 20% less time than many other holiday treats, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy clean-up and place a layer of Ritz crackers in a single row over it.

Step 2: Make the Toffee Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 3–4 minutes without stirring, creating a rich toffee base.

Step 3: Pour and Bake

Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture over the crackers, spreading it evenly. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, just until bubbly.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Topping

Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing the chocolate to melt, then spread it evenly across the top using a spatula. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts over the melted chocolate for extra texture.

Step 5: Cool and Break Apart

Let the pan cool at room temperature until it hardens, then place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes for a quicker set. Once hardened, break the toffee into pieces and serve!

Nutritional Information

A serving of this blissful treat is approximately one piece, which contains the following:

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Fat: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Sugar: 12 g
• Protein: 1 g

While this treat is indulgent, it’s a holiday treat to enjoy in moderation, especially considering the shared nature of holiday festivities.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to lighten up this recipe a bit without sacrificing flavor, consider the following substitutions:

• Use Whole Wheat Ritz Crackers: For added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
• Opt for Coconut Oil: Replace butter with coconut oil to reduce saturated fats.
• Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste and less sugar.
• Nuts: Add chopped almonds or sunflower seeds for an extra boost of nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Present your stunning Ritz Cracker Toffee (Christmas Crack) on a festive platter, garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt on top. Pair it with a warm cup of holiday spiced cider or homemade hot cocoa for a cozy dessert experience.

For a fun twist, consider packaging pieces in decorative bags as gifts for your friends and family, providing them with a taste of your holiday cheer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Ritz Cracker Toffee (Christmas Crack) turns out perfect every time, avoid these common pitfalls:

1. Not Prepping the Baking Sheet: Don’t skip lining your baking sheet; this avoids a sticky mess.
2. Overcooking the Toffee: Keep an eye on the butter and sugar mixture—overcooking can lead to a burnt flavor.
3. Song Leaks: Ensure everything cools completely before breaking apart to avoid a gooey mess.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a warmer climate, consider refrigerating to preserve the chocolate’s texture. Layer pieces between sheets of parchment paper for better organization and freshness.

Ritz Cracker Toffee (Christmas Crack)

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• Author: Recipe Inspire
• Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
• Yield: 20 pieces 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Ritz Cracker Toffee (also known as Christmas Crack) is a sweet, salty, buttery treat that’s totally addictive! 🍫✨ Made with simple ingredients, it’s the perfect quick holiday dessert for gifting, parties, or snacking all season long.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 40 Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 cups semisweet or milk chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans, sprinkles, or crushed candy canes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Arrange Ritz crackers evenly in a single layer on the prepared pan.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the crackers and spread gently.
5. Bake for 5 minutes or until bubbly. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
6. Let sit for 2 minutes, then spread the melted chocolate evenly with a spatula.
7. Top with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crushed candy canes if desired.
8. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm. Break into pieces and enjoy!

Notes

🎁 Tip: This toffee keeps perfectly in the fridge for up to a week. Package it in festive tins or bags for an easy, delicious homemade Christmas gift!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Holiday Treats, Snacks
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: ritz cracker toffee, christmas crack, toffee recipe, holiday candy, easy dessert, sweet and salty snack, christmas treats

Conclusion

In summary, Ritz Cracker Toffee (Christmas Crack) is a festive, easy-to-make treat that encapsulates the joy and spirit of the holiday season. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious dessert that bursts with flavor and will leave your guests asking for more.

Try out this delightful recipe, and see for yourself why it’s become a holiday classic! Don’t forget to share your thoughts or even tag us in your festive creations!

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the toffee up to a week in advance. Just store it properly, and it will maintain its deliciousness!

Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes! While Ritz are a popular choice, feel free to experiment with other salty crackers for a unique taste.

Is this recipe suitable for gifting?

Definitely! Package your Ritz Cracker Toffee (Christmas Crack) in cute containers or bags for a homemade gift.

With these insights and steps, you’re well on your way to creating your own holiday bliss with this delectable treat!