Crockpot Christmas Crack

There’s something magical about the holiday season that makes me want to whip up delicious, shareable treats. One of my all-time favorites is Crockpot Christmas Crack. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy, and it’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, looking for a festive gift idea, or just craving something indulgent, this recipe is a must-try.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortless it is. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a treat that will have everyone coming back for more. The combination of chocolate, caramel, and salty crackers is downright addictive—hence the name “Christmas Crack.” Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to become a holiday tradition in your home, just like it has in mine.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Saltine crackers: These are the base of the recipe, providing a salty, crunchy layer that perfectly balances the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate. They’re sturdy enough to hold up to the other ingredients without getting soggy.

Unsalted butter: Butter is the key to creating a rich, creamy caramel sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish, ensuring it doesn’t become overpowering.

Brown sugar: This adds depth and sweetness to the caramel layer. The molasses in brown sugar gives it a slightly toasty flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.

Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are my go-to for this recipe. They melt smoothly and provide a rich, chocolatey layer that complements the caramel and crackers.

Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the flavor of the caramel, adding a warm, aromatic note that ties everything together.

Optional toppings: Chopped nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt can be added for extra texture and flavor. These are completely customizable, so feel free to get creative!

Ingredients List

1 sleeve (about 40) saltine crackers
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional toppings: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt

How to Make Crockpot Christmas Crack

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by lining your slow cooker with parchment paper or a silicone liner. This will make it easier to remove the finished product later. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker, breaking them if necessary to fit.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Layer the Caramel

Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the saltine crackers in the slow cooker. Use a spatula to spread it out, ensuring all the crackers are covered.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate

Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the caramel layer. Cover the slow cooker with a lid and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt. Once melted, use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly.

Step 5: Add Toppings (Optional)

If you’re using any optional toppings, like chopped nuts or sprinkles, sprinkle them over the melted chocolate while it’s still soft.

Step 6: Let It Set

Turn off the slow cooker and let the mixture cool completely. Once cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.

Step 7: Break into Pieces

Once fully set, lift the parchment paper or silicone liner out of the slow cooker and break the Christmas Crack into bite-sized pieces. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Making This Recipe

Use parchment paper or a silicone liner: This makes it much easier to remove the finished product from the slow cooker.
Don’t skip the vanilla extract: It adds a subtle depth of flavor to the caramel.
Experiment with toppings: Try different combinations like crushed peppermint, toffee bits, or even a drizzle of white chocolate.
Store properly: Keep the Christmas Crack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer storage.
Double the recipe: If you’re making this for a crowd, feel free to double the ingredients—it’s that good!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cracker?
Yes, you can use graham crackers or Ritz crackers for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can make this in the oven by baking the crackers and caramel at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes before adding the chocolate.

How long does it take to set?
It typically takes about 2 hours in the refrigerator to fully set, but you can speed this up by placing it in the freezer for 30-45 minutes.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or even dark chocolate, depending on your preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Enjoy making this irresistible Crockpot Christmas Crack, and happy holidays!