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Churro Saltine Toffee is my secret weapon when I need a show-stopping treat in record time. Combining crisp crackers, gooey toffee, layers of chocolate, and a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar, it transforms simple pantry staples into a treat that vanishes in minutes at every party.
This was the first thing I baked for my kid’s bake sale and not a single piece was left. My kitchen smells amazing every time I make it and friends always ask me for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Saltine Crackers: create the shattering crunch of the base look for crackers that are crisp and unbroken
- Unsalted Butter: brings creamy richness choose high quality for best results and you control the salt
- Brown Sugar: delivers deep caramel flavor go for dark brown for an extra butterscotch punch
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: give a luscious chocolate layer try dark chocolate for grown-up flair
- Cinnamon: infuses the classic churro aroma and flavor fresh ground makes a huge difference
- Granulated Sugar: sweetens the top layer use fine sugar for a velvety finish
- Sea Salt: adds a pop of contrast and enhances every bite use flaky sea salt for texture and looks
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This step guarantees nonstick results and makes cleanup fast.
- Arrange the Crackers:
- Lay saltine crackers out in a single snug layer across the entire baking sheet. Filling gaps creates a uniform base for the toffee to set on.
- Make the Toffee:
- Melt unsalted butter and brown sugar together in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until it comes to a bubble and takes on a caramel scent. Watch closely so the sugar does not burn and keep stirring for about two minutes until everything is smooth.
- Pour and Bake:
- Quickly pour the bubbling toffee over the crackers. Use a heatproof spatula to gently spread the mixture so every cracker is covered. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for five to seven minutes until the toffee bubbles up and sets with a deep amber color.
- Add Chocolate:
- Remove the hot tray from the oven and immediately scatter chocolate chips all over the toffee layer. Wait a minute for the heat to melt the chips. Then spread the chocolate with an offset spatula to form an even glossy layer.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. With the chocolate still melted sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top. The warmth helps it stick beautifully.
- Finish with Sea Salt:
- Sprinkle sea salt across the surface for that sweet and salty magic. Allow the tray to cool completely on the counter so the candy sets. Once firm break into pieces and enjoy.
My cousin mailed a batch to her college roommate who texted me asking for the instructions because she finished the box in two days. Another friend served it at her holiday open-house and it disappeared before she could refill the tray.
Storage Tips
Store churro saltine toffee in an airtight tin or container at room temperature for up to five days. No need to refrigerate but keep away from heat as the chocolate will soften. For longer storage layer pieces with parchment or wax paper so they do not stick together.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out saltines for graham crackers for a honeyed twist or even matzo for a Passover variation. If you are out of brown sugar white sugar plus a dash of molasses makes a quick substitute. Try chopped nuts or mini marshmallows sprinkled on top before the chocolate sets for extra crunch or chew.
Serving Suggestions
Break into irregular shards and pile on a platter for snacks. Makes a great topping for vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. Wrap pieces in cellophane for a festive food gift that travels well. They also add crunch to creamy desserts like trifles or parfaits.
Churro saltine toffee is the fastest way I know to get that magical churro flavor at home, with no frying and minimal mess. It is always a hit and so easy to share with friends and family.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute graham crackers for saltines?
Yes, graham crackers can replace saltines for a sweeter base and a different texture, offering a delicious twist.
- → How do I prevent the toffee from burning?
Carefully watch the toffee while baking and remove it as soon as it turns golden and bubbly to avoid overcooking.
- → What kind of chocolate works best for this treat?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are classic, but dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer, deeper flavor.
- → Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
Unsalted butter helps control overall sweetness and saltiness, but you can use salted butter if preferred—just reduce added salt.
- → How should the bites be stored?
Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for best texture and flavor.
- → Can extra toppings be added?
For extra flair, drizzle with more melted chocolate or sprinkle with chopped nuts after the cinnamon-sugar topping.