Craving a treat that blends the crispy crunch of crackers with the warm, spiced sweetness of churros? This Churro Cracker Candy is here to satisfy! It’s a simple dessert packed with caramel, white chocolate, and cinnamon-sugar goodness. Perfect for holidays, parties, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe is easy to make and absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the flavors of churros and toffee in one treat.
- Easy to make with pantry staples.
- Quick preparation and minimal hands-on time.
- Perfect for gifting or enjoying at home.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Small saucepan
- Heatproof spatula
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer, covering the entire baking sheet.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Mix
In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Set this aside for later.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel
In a small saucepan, melt 1 cup of butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup of brown sugar and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it bubble for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Carefully pour the caramel mixture over the crackers, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes. The caramel should bubble and darken slightly.
Step 5: Add the White Chocolate
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately scatter 1 (12 oz) bag of white chocolate chips over the hot crackers. Allow the chocolate to sit for about 5 minutes until softened, then spread it into an even layer with a spatula.
Step 6: Sprinkle the Cinnamon-Sugar Mix
While the chocolate is still melted, evenly sprinkle the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.
Step 7: Cool and Break
Allow the candy to cool completely for about 30-60 minutes. Once hardened, break it into bite-sized pieces.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve as a sweet snack or dessert. Pair it with coffee or hot chocolate for an extra cozy treat.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze in a sealed container.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Option: Swap white chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Add crushed pecans or almonds to the melted chocolate before sprinkling with cinnamon-sugar.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mix for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers as a substitute for saltines.
Helpful Notes and Tips from Chefs
- Work Quickly: The chocolate hardens fast, so sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mix immediately after spreading the chocolate.
- Uniform Cracker Layer: Make sure the crackers lie flat to ensure even caramel coverage.
- Watch the Caramel: Stir constantly when making the caramel to prevent it from burning or separating.
- Chill for Faster Cooling: If you’re short on time, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use graham crackers instead of saltines?
A: Yes, graham crackers will add a sweeter base, which pairs well with the cinnamon-sugar flavor.
Q2: What can I do if my chocolate doesn’t melt properly?
A: Pop the baking sheet back in the oven for 1-2 minutes to soften the chocolate further, then spread.
Q3: How can I keep the caramel from sticking to the foil or parchment?
A: Be sure to use a well-greased foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This candy stores well and can be made several days in advance.
Q5: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Butter is preferred for its rich flavor and consistency, but margarine can be used in a pinch.
This Churro Cracker Candy is a crowd-pleasing dessert with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection! Give it a try and let the churro-inspired magic begin!
