The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in festive treats, and what better way to celebrate than with a classic Christmas crack recipe that’s completely gluten free? This delightful sweet and salty cracker candy combines the crunch of gluten free crackers, the rich buttery caramel, and a generous topping of melted chocolate, resulting in an irresistible holiday snack.
Whether you’re catering to friends or family with gluten sensitivities or simply want to try a new twist on a traditional favorite, this recipe is sure to impress. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a perfect project for holiday baking sessions or last-minute gifts.
Get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm aroma of caramel and chocolate, and enjoy a treat that’s as festive as it is delicious. Plus, it’s customizable, easy to make, and guaranteed to become a holiday staple in your recipe box.
Let’s dive into this gluten free Christmas crack recipe that will sweeten your celebrations!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This gluten free Christmas crack recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and simple equipment.
The combination of sweet caramel and rich chocolate with a salty crunch creates a perfect balance of flavors that everyone loves.
Because it’s made with gluten free crackers, it’s an inclusive treat ideal for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. It’s also highly versatile—you can add nuts, sea salt, or even festive sprinkles to customize the candy to your taste.
The recipe is perfect for gifting or serving at holiday parties, and it stores well, maintaining its crispness and flavor for days.
Lastly, it’s a nostalgic treat that brings back fond memories of holiday baking, made healthier and gluten free without compromising on taste or texture.
Ingredients
- 40 gluten free crackers (like gluten free saltines or rice crackers)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 cups gluten free semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon gluten free vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts (pecans, almonds), sea salt flakes, crushed peppermint candies
Equipment
- Baking sheet (rimmed, approximately 9×13 inches)
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate, optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife or pizza cutter (for slicing the finished candy)
Instructions
- Prepare your baking sheet: Line the rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the gluten free crackers in a single layer, covering the entire surface without overlapping.
- Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens and bubbles, but do not let it burn.
- Pour caramel over crackers: Immediately pour the hot caramel evenly over the crackers. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to spread the caramel into an even layer, ensuring all crackers are coated.
- Bake the cracker layer: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This step helps the caramel set and soak slightly into the crackers.
- Cool slightly and add chocolate: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the gluten free chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel layer. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the chocolate to soften.
- Smooth the chocolate: Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the melted chocolate into an even layer.
- Add toppings: If desired, sprinkle your choice of chopped nuts, sea salt flakes, or crushed peppermint candies over the chocolate while it’s still soft.
- Chill and set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate and caramel are completely firm.
- Slice and serve: Once set, lift the candy out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice into squares or rectangles.
- Store: Store the Christmas crack in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to one week.
Tips & Variations
“For the crispiest and most flavorful Christmas crack, be sure to use fresh gluten free crackers and don’t skip the chilling step—it’s key for a perfect snap!”
- Cracker choice: Rice crackers, gluten free saltines, or even gluten free graham crackers work well depending on your texture preference.
- Nutty twist: Add toasted pecans or chopped almonds on top for extra crunch and holiday flair.
- Chocolate options: Use dark, milk, or even white gluten free chocolate chips to customize sweetness and flavor.
- Flavored caramel: Stir a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of bourbon into the caramel for a festive twist.
- Make it vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan margarine and use dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it fully plant-based and gluten free.
- Sprinkle some sea salt: A light dusting of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate enhances the sweet-salty contrast.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 piece) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 130mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 17g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Protein | 1g |
Serving Suggestions
Christmas crack is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it alongside a hot cup of cocoa or your favorite holiday coffee blend. Wrap small batches in decorative cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons for charming gift-giving.
It pairs wonderfully with other holiday treats like peppermint bark, gingerbread cookies, or gluten free fruitcake. For an indulgent dessert platter, arrange the crack alongside fresh berries and whipped cream.
Kids and adults alike will enjoy this sweet and crunchy treat during holiday parties, family gatherings, or as an after-dinner indulgence to end festive meals on a sweet note.
Conclusion
This gluten free Christmas crack recipe is a delightful way to add a homemade touch to your holiday celebrations. Its simplicity, combined with the perfect balance of sweet caramel, melty chocolate, and crunchy crackers, makes it a guaranteed favorite for all ages.
Plus, it’s a thoughtful treat for friends and family who require gluten free options without sacrificing flavor or festive spirit.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a holiday novice, this recipe’s easy steps and minimal ingredients make it accessible and fun. Customize it with your favorite toppings or chocolate types to make it uniquely yours.
For even more delicious gluten free and vegan holiday treats, be sure to check out our Best Vegan Holiday Cookie Recipe for Festive Treats and Best Vegan Christmas Pudding Recipe for Festive Joy.
Enjoy baking, sharing, and most importantly, indulging in this scrumptious Christmas crack this holiday season. Happy holidays and happy snacking!
📖 Recipe Card: Gluten Free Christmas Crack Recipe
Description: A deliciously sweet and crunchy holiday treat made with gluten free ingredients. Perfect for gifting or enjoying during festive gatherings.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 24 pieces
Ingredients
- 40 gluten free crackers (such as rice crackers)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 cups gluten free semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange gluten free crackers in a single layer.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it boils.
- Boil for 3 minutes without stirring, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the crackers.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes until bubbly.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot caramel.
- Let chocolate sit for 5 minutes, then spread evenly using a spatula.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans and sea salt on top.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
- Break into pieces and serve.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 9 g | Carbs: 18 g
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