This sweet treat is a fun mix of crunchy crackers, rich chocolate, and creamy peanut butter. It’s the perfect snack to satisfy your cravings for something crispy and chocolatey!
I love making this toffee because it comes together so quickly. Plus, who can resist that delicious combination of chocolate and peanut butter? It’s a party in your mouth! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Saltine Crackers: These are crunchy and salty, creating a great base. You can use Ritz crackers if you prefer a buttery flavor, or even graham crackers for a sweeter option.
Unsalted Butter: I always use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the toffee. If you need a dairy-free version, try coconut oil instead. It adds a lovely hint of flavor!
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives a chewy texture. If you run out, you can use granulated sugar combined with a bit of molasses to mimic that brown sugar flavor.
Peanut Butter Chips: These give rich peanut butter flavor. You can substitute with butterscotch chips for a different taste, or use chocolate chips if you want a chocolate-heavy version.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: My favorite for this dish! You can swap for milk chocolate for a sweeter taste, or dark chocolate if you prefer something more intense.
How Do I Avoid Burning the Caramel?
Making the caramel is essential in this recipe, but it’s easy to burn if you’re not careful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Always stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil to prevent sticking.
- Once boiling, let it go without stirring for 3 minutes. Set a timer to avoid overcooking!
- If the mixture gets too dark too fast, reduce the heat slightly. It should bubble steadily, not violently.
This process will help you achieve that perfect golden caramel flavor without burning it. Enjoy your toffee-making!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cracker Toffee
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 40 saltine crackers (about one standard sleeve)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter chips
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- Flaky sea salt, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and an additional 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. It’s simple and quick to put together, but you’ll want to wait for it to set before indulging in this tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil, making sure to leave some overhang. This will help you lift the toffee out later. Next, arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer across the bottom of the pan. Cover the entire base for a delicious, crispy bottom!
2. Make the Caramel:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter and brown sugar. Stir it continuously until the mixture starts to boil. Once it reaches a boil, let it bubble away for 3 minutes without stirring – this step helps the sugar caramelize just right!
3. Pour the Caramel Over Crackers:
Quickly pour the hot caramel mixture over the layer of crackers in your pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it out evenly so every cracker gets coated. Be careful – it’s hot!
4. Bake and Add Peanut Butter Chips:
Place the pan in your preheated oven for about 5 minutes. After that, remove it and sprinkle the peanut butter chips evenly over the warm toffee. Give them just a few minutes to start melting and getting gooey!
5. Spread the Peanut Butter Layer:
Once the peanut butter chips are nicely melted, grab your offset spatula (or spoon) and gently spread the melted peanut butter over the toffee layer to make a nice, even coating.
6. Top with Chocolate Chips:
While the peanut butter layer is still warm, sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips on top. Allow them to melt slightly before spreading them into an even layer over the peanut butter. This will give you a rich chocolate layer!
7. Add Peanuts and Sea Salt:
Now, quickly scatter the chopped roasted peanuts across the melted chocolate, and don’t forget a pinch of flaky sea salt to enhance all the flavors. That’s the perfect salty crunch we’re aiming for!
8. Chill the Toffee:
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until everything is firm and set. This step is important for achieving the right texture!
9. Cut and Serve:
Once everything is nice and set, use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift the block of toffee out of the pan. Now you can break or cut it into squares for serving.
10. Storage:
Store your delicious toffee bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness. Enjoy your sweet creation!
This delightful Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cracker Toffee is a wonderful blend of crunchy, creamy, and sweet flavors that will have everyone coming back for more!
Can I Use Different Types of Crackers?
Absolutely! While saltine crackers provide a nice salty crunch, you can use Ritz crackers for a buttery flavor or even graham crackers for a sweeter twist. Just make sure to cover the entire base of the pan!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for longer freshness, although it may lose some of its crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, this toffee is perfect for making ahead of time! Prepare it up to a week in advance, just store it properly in an airtight container. It makes for great party treats or holiday gifts!
What Can I Substitute for Peanut Butter Chips?
If you don’t have peanut butter chips, you can substitute them with chocolate chips or even butterscotch chips for a different flavor. Both options will give you a delicious result!
