Looking for an easy Christmas treat that disappears fast? This Christmas Crack recipe is deliciously addictive. It combines crunchy pretzels, buttery caramel toffee, and plenty of chocolate into one seriously good sweet treat. Christmas Crack is perfect for serving to guests, taking to a Christmas Day celebration, or popping on the table when friends and family come over. We have also bagged it up and given it as a homemade Christmas gift to neighbours and friends, and it was a definite hit!
Christmas Crack ingredients
- 1–2 bags of pretzels, depending on your baking tray. You can also use a cake or slice tin for a smaller, thicker version.
- 1 large block of cooking chocolate
- 1⅔ cups brown sugar
- 250g butter
- Christmas decorations: lollies, sprinkles or your favourite festive toppings.
- Rock salt: optional, for a delicious sweet-and-salty finish.
How to make Christmas Crack
- Prepare the tray: Preheat your oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper. Arrange the pretzels in a tight, even layer, breaking some if needed to fill the gaps.
- Make the caramel: Add the butter and brown sugar to a saucepan over high heat, stirring continuously. Once it starts to boil, keep it on a rolling boil for 3–4 minutes, aiming for approximately 150°C. Keep stirring so it doesn’t catch on the bottom, and watch as the caramel changes colour, thickness, and consistency.
- Pour over the pretzels: Remove the caramel from the heat and gently continue stirring. Carefully pour the hot caramel over the pretzels, then use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Bake: Place in the oven for approximately 6 minutes. Keep a close eye on it and remove as soon as you see the caramel beginning to bubble.
- Add the chocolate: While the caramel is still hot, place the broken chocolate over the top. Allow it to melt, then spread the chocolate evenly across the surface.
- Decorate and chill: Add your favourite Christmas decorations, lollies or a sprinkle of rock salt. Place the tray in the fridge until completely set.
- Crack and serve: Once chilled and firm, break the Christmas Crack into pieces and enjoy!
The perfect homemade Christmas treat
Once your Christmas Crack has completely set, simply break it into pieces and watch it disappear! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and serve whenever you need a quick Christmas sweet treat. It also makes a fun and inexpensive homemade Christmas gift. Pop a few pieces into a clear bag and tie it with festive ribbon. You’ve got a delicious little gift for neighbours, teachers, friends, or family. Just be warned… making a batch may mean you’ll need to make another one because this stuff is seriously hard to resist!
For more festive fun, check out our Christmas in Lake Macquarie Guide
