Introduction
Celebrate the holiday season with these Irresistible Christmas Treats — a perfect blend of sweetness, crunch, and festive cheer. These no-fuss delights bring together chocolate, peppermint, and a buttery crunch that captures the true taste of Christmas. Whether you’re gifting them, serving them at a party, or enjoying them by the fire, these treats are guaranteed to impress.
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Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 sleeve saltine crackers (about 35–40)
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
½ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
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Instructions
1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. Lay crackers: Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet, covering the entire surface.
3. Make the caramel: In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar together over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened.
4. Add vanilla and salt: Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour over crackers: Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the crackers, spreading it out with a spatula.
6. Bake: Place in the oven for 5–6 minutes, until the caramel is bubbling.
7. Add chocolate: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Let them sit for 2 minutes, then spread the melted chocolate evenly.
8. Top with peppermint: Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the melted chocolate.
9. Chill: Allow to cool completely, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.
10. Break and serve: Once set, break into pieces and enjoy!
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Description
This recipe combines buttery toffee with smooth melted chocolate and a refreshing peppermint crunch. The combination of textures — crisp, creamy, and crunchy — makes it nearly impossible to resist. It’s quick, simple, and ideal for last-minute Christmas gifting or dessert trays.
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Tips
Use good-quality chocolate chips for the smoothest finish.
To make it easier to clean up, use parchment paper instead of foil.
For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pecans before the chocolate sets.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
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Variations
White Chocolate Version: Replace semisweet chocolate with white chocolate and drizzle with red and green melted candy melts.
Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt over the chocolate layer before chilling.
Nutty Delight: Add crushed pretzels, peanuts, or pistachios for extra crunch.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers instead of saltines.
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Correction
If your caramel turns grainy or separates, it may have been overcooked. Next time, stir constantly and remove it from heat as soon as it thickens. If the chocolate doesn’t spread smoothly, give it a few extra minutes to soften from the heat of the caramel before spreading.
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Enjoy
Serve these Irresistible Christmas Treats at holiday gatherings, gift them in festive tins, or keep a secret stash for yourself. Each bite captures the magic of Christmas — sweet, crunchy, and joyfully indulgent.