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You're gonna love this salty-sweet holiday goodie—just right for munching or giving away. Saltine crackers, caramelized butter and brown sugar, plus melty chocolate and some candy make a treat you can’t stop eating.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped red and green M&Ms: Toss these on at the end for a burst of color and a festive vibe.
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: These melt over everything for that smooth, chocolatey finish.
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed): When this mixes with butter, you get a gooey, candy-like layer.
- 1 cup salted butter: This makes your caramel extra rich.
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers (about 40): What you use to build the crunchy base.
Instructions
- Step 10:
- After everything’s firm, take out the pan and crack it into bites. Dig in!
- Step 9:
- Slide the pan in the fridge for a few hours or use your freezer for about half an hour to get the chocolate set.
- Step 8:
- Toss your colorful M&Ms over the warm chocolate so they stick.
- Step 7:
- Grab a spatula and spread the melted chocolate so it covers every cracker.
- Step 6:
- Right after baking, sprinkle chocolate chips across all the crackers. Wait about 5 minutes for the chocolate to get glossy and soft.
- Step 5:
- Bake for around 5 or 6 minutes, until it starts to bubble.
- Step 4:
- Drizzle your hot caramel sauce all over the layer of saltines, then smooth it out with a spoon.
- Step 3:
- Heat the butter and brown sugar in a small pot. Keep stirring while it bubbles. Let it cook for about 3 or 4 minutes so it thickens up.
- Step 2:
- Lay the crackers edge to edge on your lined sheet pan so there aren't any gaps.
- Step 1:
- Get your oven cranked up to 400°F. Put down parchment paper or foil on a baking pan, and give it a quick spritz with some nonstick spray.
Serving and Storage Tips
- This is awesome for gifts—pop pieces into cute bags or tins and make someone's day.
- If you want it to last, tuck in the freezer for up to three months and let it warm up a bit before you eat.
- Stick leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge and they’ll stay fresh for a week.
Helpful Notes
- Go for a thicker chocolate layer by tossing on some extra chips before you spread it.
- Try crumbling up some candy canes or add sprinkles for more holiday color.
- Watch your caramel! You don’t want it to burn—keep an eye on it and don’t rush.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Jamie Oliver says a silicone spatula makes spreading chocolate a breeze.
- Ina Garten’s pro tip: dust a pinch of sea salt on top for that sweet-salty perk.
- Martha Stewart thinks good chocolate makes the topping taste even better and smoother.
Why You'll Love This One
- Works great as a make-ahead snack—just chill it or freeze it till you want it.
- That salty and sweet combo pretty much wins with everyone.
- You just need a few things and it comes together super fast. No stress during the holidays!
Variations
- If you want different texture, swap M&Ms for nuts or dried fruit pieces.
- White chocolate chips give it a totally new taste if you want to mix things up.
- Add crushed peppermints if you’re craving cool, minty flavor through every bite.