Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easter Crack is the ultimate treat for those who love a combination of salty and sweet. With a layer of gooey caramel, smooth white chocolate, and a burst of colorful pastel toppings, it’s a flavor explosion in every bite. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, with only a few ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you're making it for Easter or just craving a fun, quick dessert, this irresistible snack will disappear in no time. Plus, the beautiful pastel M&Ms and sprinkles make it an eye-catching dessert for any celebration!
Ingredients
-
1 sleeve saltine crackers
-
1 cup unsalted butter
-
1 cup brown sugar
-
2 cups white chocolate chips
-
1 cup pastel M&Ms
-
1 cup pastel sprinkles
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Step 2: Make the Caramel
-
In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture bubbles and caramelizes (about 3 minutes).
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
-
Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the crackers and spread it out with a spatula.
-
Bake for 5 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbling.
-
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the white chocolate chips over the hot caramel layer.
Step 4: Melt & Decorate
-
Let the chocolate sit for 2 minutes to soften, then spread it evenly with a spatula.
-
While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle the pastel M&Ms and pastel sprinkles on top.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
-
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until fully set.
-
Once hardened, break into pieces and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: 12 pieces
-
Prep Time: 10 minutes
-
Cook Time: 10 minutes
-
Chill Time: 1 hour
-
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
-
Chocolate Variations: Feel free to swap the white chocolate chips for milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even peanut butter chips for a different flavor profile.
-
Add Nuts: Add crushed nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds on top for an added crunch.
-
Other Sprinkles: Change up the sprinkles based on the season. Use red and green for Christmas or gold and silver for a New Year's Eve treat.
-
Flavor Boosters: For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel layer before baking for a salty-sweet twist.
Storage/Reheating
-
Storage: Store Easter Crack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks.
-
Freezing: Easter Crack can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
-
Reheating: There's no need to reheat Easter Crack; just break off pieces and enjoy! If you want to soften the chocolate layer, place it in the microwave for a few seconds.
FAQs
1. Can I use different crackers for Easter Crack?
Yes, while saltine crackers are the traditional choice, you can experiment with other crackers like graham crackers or even pretzels for a different flavor and texture.
2. How long do I need to chill Easter Crack?
For the best results, refrigerate Easter Crack for at least 1 hour until the chocolate has fully set.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make Easter Crack a day or two ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
4. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! While white chocolate is the most common choice, milk chocolate or dark chocolate also work wonderfully in this recipe.
5. How do I know when the caramel is ready?
The caramel is ready when it has bubbled up and thickened slightly. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning.
6. Can I add more toppings?
Yes! Feel free to add extra toppings like crushed candy, coconut flakes, or even drizzle with caramel sauce for added flavor.
7. How should I break the Easter Crack into pieces?
Once it has chilled and hardened, break the Easter Crack into random pieces by gently tapping it with your hands or using a knife.
8. What should I do if the chocolate doesn't melt properly?
If the chocolate chips don't melt properly, place the baking sheet back in the warm oven for a few more minutes. Alternatively, you can use a hairdryer to gently melt the chocolate if needed.
9. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter is preferred for its flavor, margarine can be used as a substitute if necessary.
10. Is Easter Crack gluten-free?
No, Easter Crack contains saltine crackers, which are not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free crackers to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Conclusion
Easter Crack is the perfect sweet and salty treat for any occasion. With its easy prep, minimal ingredients, and delightful texture, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to. Whether you’re celebrating Easter or just craving something sweet, this delicious snack will be a hit with friends and family. Don't forget to get creative with the toppings, and enjoy!
Easter Crack Recipe
Easter Crack is a sweet and salty treat featuring layers of caramel, white chocolate, and colorful M&Ms. This festive no-bake snack, topped with vibrant sprinkles, is the perfect treat for Easter or any occasion. Quick and easy to make, it’s sure to be a hit with friends and family!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 sleeve saltine crackers
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 cups white chocolate chips
1 cup pastel M&Ms
1 cup pastel sprinkles
Instructions
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange saltine crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet.
-
Make the Caramel: In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly for about 3 minutes until the mixture bubbles and caramelizes.
-
Assemble & Bake: Pour the caramel over the crackers, spreading it evenly. Bake for 5 minutes until bubbling.
-
Melt & Decorate: Remove from oven and sprinkle white chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Let sit for 2 minutes to melt, then spread evenly. Sprinkle pastel M&Ms and sprinkles on top.
-
Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until fully set. Once hardened, break into pieces and serve.
Notes
-
You can substitute the white chocolate chips with milk chocolate or dark chocolate.
-
Add nuts for extra crunch or experiment with different sprinkles for seasonal variations.
-
Easter Crack can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerated for up to 2 weeks