Christmas Crack Cookies

Warning: these cookies are dangerously addictive! Christmas Crack Cookies combine the irresistible crunch of toffee-covered saltine crackers with a nutty, brown butter cookie dough for a treat that truly SLEIGHS. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or a festive snack at home, these cookies are chewy, buttery, and packed with chocolatey goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet, salty, and buttery with every bite
• Crunchy Christmas Crack toffee folded into soft cookie dough
• Perfect for holiday cookie trays or gifting
• Make-ahead friendly; can freeze before baking
• Fun, festive, and guaranteed to impress

Ingredients

Christmas Crack (Toffee)

• Saltine crackers (9) – Provides a crisp base for the toffee
• Salted butter (6 tbsp) – Rich flavor and smooth toffee texture
• Brown sugar (6 tbsp) – Creates a sweet, caramelized coating
• Chocolate chips (3/4 cup / 150g) – Melts over the toffee for chocolatey perfection

Cookie Dough

• Salted butter (1 cup / 222g, browned) – Adds nutty depth to the cookie
• Brown sugar (1 cup / 246g) – Sweetens and keeps cookies soft
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup / 115g) – Provides structure and subtle sweetness
• Eggs (2) – Bind the dough and create a chewy texture
• Vanilla (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor
• All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups / 342g) – Forms the structure of the cookies
• Baking soda (1 tsp) – Helps cookies spread and rise slightly
• Salt (1/2 tsp) – Balances sweetness
• Flaky sea salt (for garnish) – Adds a finishing touch and enhances flavors

How to Make Christmas Crack Cookies

Step 1: Make the Christmas Crack

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a 9×9 pan with parchment paper and arrange saltine crackers in a single layer.

In a small saucepan, combine butter and brown sugar. Bring to a boil without stirring, and let boil for 2 1/2 minutes. Pour the hot toffee over the crackers.

Bake in the oven for 6 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Let sit 5 minutes, then spread until smooth. Cool completely, then freeze.

Step 2: Prepare Brown Butter Cookie Dough

While the toffee cools, brown the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir until butter bubbles, turns golden brown, and smells nutty. Remove from heat and pour into a large bowl or stand mixer.

Add brown sugar and granulated sugar. Mix 1 minute until combined.

Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth and no longer grainy.

Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined; dough should be very soft.

Step 3: Combine Cookie Dough and Christmas Crack

Remove frozen toffee and chop into small pieces. Fold the toffee pieces into the cookie dough.

Scoop 3 tbsp portions onto parchment- or silicone-lined cookie sheets. Top with flaky sea salt. Allow dough to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Bake Cookies

Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 9-11 minutes, until cookies spread and no longer look glossy. Cool on the pan.

Enjoy your chewy, crunchy, chocolatey Christmas Crack Cookies!

Tips for Success

• Chop the toffee into small pieces for even distribution in dough
• Don’t overbake; cookies are best soft and chewy
• Resting dough helps maintain cookie shape
• Store baked cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness
• Freeze unbaked dough for later baking

Equipment Needed

• 9×9 baking pan
• Small saucepan
• Medium saucepan
• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Lover’s: Add extra chocolate chips into dough
• Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts
• Spiced Cookie: Add 1 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for holiday warmth

Serving Suggestions

Serve with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy holiday treat. Arrange on a festive platter for parties or gift in clear treat bags with a ribbon for holiday gifting.

FAQs

Can I make the Christmas Crack ahead of time?
Yes, toffee can be made and frozen until ready to fold into cookie dough.

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, just adjust added salt in dough to taste.

How should I store leftover cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.

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Final Thoughts

These Christmas Crack Cookies are a festive, indulgent treat that will delight friends and family. With buttery brown sugar dough and crunchy, chocolate-covered toffee, every bite is packed with flavor. Make a batch, share the holiday cheer, and watch them disappear fast!