Churro Saltine Toffee

Crispy, buttery saltine crackers layered with rich caramel toffee and finished with a cinnamon-sugar white chocolate topping—this Churro Saltine Toffee is a delicious twist on traditional cracker toffee. With its crunchy texture and sweet-spiced flavor, it’s an irresistible treat that’s easy to make and perfect for snacking or gifting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This churro-inspired toffee is the perfect combination of salty, sweet, and spiced. It comes together with simple pantry ingredients and takes just 20 minutes to make. The buttery toffee layer infuses the saltines with a deep caramel flavor, while the cinnamon-sugar topping gives it that classic churro flair. It’s ideal for holidays, parties, or just a quick homemade dessert. Plus, it stores well and makes a fantastic edible gift.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 40 saltine crackers (1 sleeve)
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer, covering the entire sheet.
3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Stir continuously and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture over the crackers and spread evenly using a spatula.
5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the toffee layer is bubbling.
6. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle white chocolate chips over the surface. Let them sit for 2–3 minutes to melt.
7. Once softened, spread the melted white chocolate evenly over the toffee.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and granulated sugar. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the melted white chocolate layer.
9. Allow the toffee to cool completely at room temperature, then break into pieces.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes approximately 20 pieces
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per piece

Variations

• Milk or Dark Chocolate: Substitute the white chocolate with milk or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free saltine-style crackers.
• Nut Topping: Add finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds over the chocolate before adding the cinnamon-sugar.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy variation.
• Drizzled Finish: After cooling, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for a decorative contrast.
• Sea Salt Sprinkle: Finish with a light dusting of flaky sea salt for extra flavor.
• Layered Flavors: Add a thin layer of peanut butter or dulce de leche before the white chocolate.
• Holiday Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or clove to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a seasonal twist.
• Caramel Swirl: Swirl a bit of caramel sauce into the melted white chocolate before it sets.

storage/reheating

Store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If storing in warmer environments, place it in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting. Toffee does not require reheating and is best enjoyed at room temperature. Avoid freezing, as it may cause the chocolate layer to discolor or crack.

FAQs

Can I make this toffee ahead of time?

Yes, this toffee can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch. Note that the texture may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use parchment paper?

Yes, using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup much easier. It also allows the toffee to be removed from the pan without breaking.

What can I use instead of saltine crackers?

You can substitute with other plain crackers such as club crackers or matzo. Keep in mind that flavor and texture may change slightly.

How do I know when the toffee layer is ready?

The toffee should be bubbling evenly across the surface when it’s ready to be removed from the oven. This usually happens after 8–10 minutes.

Can I melt the white chocolate separately?

Yes, if you prefer, you can melt the white chocolate in a microwave or double boiler and then spread it over the toffee.

What is the best way to break the toffee into pieces?

Once fully cooled, use your hands or a sharp knife to break the toffee into irregular bite-sized pieces.

Is this dessert overly sweet?

It is sweet, as it’s meant to be a candy-like treat, but the saltiness of the crackers helps balance the sweetness.

Can I use flavored white chocolate chips?

Yes, flavored white chocolate chips like vanilla or caramel can add extra depth to the final result.

Why is my chocolate not spreading smoothly?

If the chips haven’t softened enough, give them another minute or two before spreading. You can also cover the pan with foil to help trap heat.

Conclusion

Churro Saltine Toffee is a quick, festive treat that combines the crunch of crackers, the richness of toffee, and the cozy warmth of cinnamon sugar. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for holidays, parties, or casual snacking. This simple yet flavorful dessert is sure to impress guests and satisfy sweet cravings all year long.

Churro Saltine Toffee

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This Churro Saltine Toffee is a mouthwatering twist on the classic cracker toffee—featuring crispy saltines layered with buttery brown sugar toffee, topped with smooth white chocolate and a cinnamon-sugar sprinkle. It’s the perfect quick and easy dessert for gifting, holidays, or snacking any time of year.

• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 20 pieces
• Category: Dessert, Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 40 saltine crackers (1 sleeve)

• 1 cup unsalted butter

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar

• 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Arrange saltine crackers in a single layer to cover the baking sheet.

3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar together. Bring to a boil and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.

4. Pour hot toffee mixture evenly over the crackers and spread with a spatula.

5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the toffee is bubbling.

6. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle white chocolate chips over the top. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to soften, then spread evenly.

7. Mix cinnamon and granulated sugar in a small bowl, then sprinkle evenly over the white chocolate layer.

8. Let cool completely until firm. Break into pieces and enjoy!

Notes

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

• For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds before the white chocolate layer.

• Great for edible gifts during holidays or party favors.