‘Holiday staple’: Just 3 ingredients. I make this every Christmas and it disappears fast.

This holiday classic is famous for being incredibly addictive. By using a disposable foil tray, you make the cleanup effortless and the bars perfectly portable for gifting or parties.

3-Ingredient Christmas Crack Bars (Foil Tray Version)

Ingredients:

How To Make Christmas Crack Bars:

Step 1: Prep the Tray: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a disposable 9×13-inch foil tray onto a sturdy sheet pan. This provides stability when moving the tray in and out of the oven.

Step 2: Layer the Crackers: Line the bottom of the foil tray with a single layer of the 35/40 saltine crackers. Break a few crackers if necessary to fill any large gaps, ensuring the entire base is covered.

Step 3: Make the Toffee: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of brown sugar. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil. Once it reaches a steady bubble, cook for 3/4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is glossy and thick.

Step 4: Pour and Spread: Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture over the crackers. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure every cracker is coated and the mixture reaches the corners of the tray.

Step 5: Bake: Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 8/10 minutes. The toffee should be bubbling vigorously and turning a slightly deeper golden brown. This step carmelizes the sugar and bonds it to the crackers.

Step 6: Add Chocolate (Optional): Remove the tray from the oven. If you are using the 1 1/2 cups of chocolate chips, sprinkle them over the top immediately. Let them sit for 2/3 minutes to melt, then spread them into a smooth, even layer with a spoon or spatula.

Step 7: Chill and Set: Let the tray cool to room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 1/2 hours. This chilling process is vital for the toffee to harden and achieve its signature “snap.”

Step 8: Break and Serve: Once firm, use your hands to break the slab into irregular pieces, or use a knife to cut uniform squares directly in the tray. Store in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them crisp.