Peanut Butter Cracker Candy Recipe

Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy with this easy-to-make Peanut Butter Cracker Candy. This delightful treat is ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family during special occasions.

Peanut Butter Cracker Candy, also known as “Cracker Toffee” or “Saltine Toffee,” is a delicious and addictive treat that’s incredibly simple to prepare. The combination of buttery toffee, salty crackers, and a rich peanut butter chocolate topping makes for a delightful candy that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it for a party, holiday gathering, or just a sweet snack, this candy is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1-2 sleeves saltine crackers
• 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 10 oz bag peanut butter chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup unsalted peanuts, chopped
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line Baking Sheet: Line a rimmed baking sheet (approximately 15×10 inches) with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lightly grease the parchment or foil with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Arrange the Crackers

1. Layer Crackers: Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, covering the entire surface. If needed, break some crackers to fit the edges.

Step 3: Make the Toffee

1. Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add Brown Sugar: Once the butter is melted, add the brown sugar and stir continuously until the mixture begins to boil. Let it boil for 3-4 minutes without stirring until it forms a thick, bubbly toffee.
3. Pour Toffee: Carefully pour the toffee mixture evenly over the layer of saltine crackers, spreading it with a spatula if needed to ensure all the crackers are covered.

Step 4: Bake the Candy

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the toffee is bubbly and the crackers are slightly browned.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

1. Add Peanut Butter Chips: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the peanut butter chocolate chips over the hot toffee-covered crackers. Let them sit for a couple of minutes to soften.
2. Spread Chips: Once the chips are soft, use a spatula to spread them into an even layer over the toffee and crackers.
3. Add Peanuts and Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the chopped peanuts and mini chocolate chips evenly over the melted peanut butter chocolate layer.

Step 6: Cool and Set

1. Cool Completely: Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature, or place it in the refrigerator for faster cooling. The chocolate should be fully set and firm.

Step 7: Break into Pieces

1. Break Candy: Once the candy is completely cool and set, break it into pieces by hand or cut it with a sharp knife into squares.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Cracker Options: Experiment with different types of crackers like graham crackers or Ritz for a slightly different flavor and texture.
• Chocolate Variations: Use white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips for a different twist.
• Nut Toppings: Substitute chopped peanuts with other nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts for variety.
• Additional Toppings: Add a sprinkle of sea salt, shredded coconut, or colorful sprinkles for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Version:

• Cracker Substitute: Use keto-friendly crackers or low-carb almond flour crackers.
• Sugar Substitute: Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
• Chocolate Substitute: Use sugar-free peanut butter chocolate chips.

Low-Carb Version:

• Cracker Substitute: Opt for whole-grain crackers with lower carbs.
• Sugar Substitute: Use a mix of stevia and erythritol to replace the brown sugar.
• Chocolate Substitute: Choose dark chocolate with a high cocoa percentage to lower the carb content.

Peanut Butter Cracker Candy is an irresistible treat that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors with a delightful crunch. This easy-to-make candy is perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to festive gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of this delicious candy in no time. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this candy is sure to be a hit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?

A: While you can use margarine, butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture. Margarine may alter the taste and consistency of the toffee.

Q: How do I store the candy?

A: Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Q: Can I freeze Peanut Butter Cracker Candy?

A: Yes, you can freeze this candy. Place the pieces in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have peanut butter chocolate chips?

A: If you don’t have peanut butter chocolate chips, you can use regular chocolate chips and swirl in some melted peanut butter, or use a mix of chocolate chips and peanut butter chips.

Q: Can I make this candy without an oven?

A: Yes, you can make the toffee on the stovetop and then pour it over the crackers. Instead of baking, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator to set the toffee.