This yummy chocolate peanut butter cup cracker toffee is a sweet treat that’s super easy to make! With crunchy crackers, smooth peanut butter, and rich chocolate, it’s a combo that can’t be beaten.
You won’t believe how quick it comes together! Just layer, bake, and let it chill. It’s perfect for sharing, or you know, keeping all to yourself. No judgment here! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Saltine Crackers: These give the toffee its crunch. If you’re out of saltines, you could use graham crackers or any other plain cracker you have on hand. Just keep in mind the saltiness might vary!
Unsalted Butter: I always use unsalted butter to better control the salt level in the recipe. If you only have salted butter, that works too; just skip adding extra salt later.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds a bit of moisture and a nice caramel flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute it with white sugar, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is great for a smooth texture, but crunchy peanut butter can add some nice texture to this treat as well. If you’re allergic to peanuts, almond butter or sun butter (sunflower seed butter) are excellent substitutes!
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate is perfect for balance. Don’t have it? Dark chocolate or milk chocolate will also work well, or even a mix for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Toffee Texture?
Getting the toffee just right is key! Here’s how to ensure you achieve that glossy, crunchy texture:
- When melting the butter and sugar, stir constantly until it’s bubbly. This helps dissolve the sugar completely.
- Let the mixture boil for about 3 minutes without stirring. This is crucial for getting that caramelized flavor.
- Pouring the hot mixture over the crackers should be done carefully so it covers all the crackers evenly.
- After baking, let the toffee bubble for a moment allows it to set beautifully when cooled.
Patience is essential here! Once it cools completely, it will harden nicely for perfect snacking.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cracker Toffee
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Toffee Base:
- 40 saltine crackers (about 2 sleeves)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (smooth)
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 cup chopped peanut butter cups (mini or regular chopped)
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious toffee takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 2 hours in the refrigerator to set. You’ll have some fun mixing and layering the ingredients—and the waiting is worth it for the amazing flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large baking sheet (approx. 15″x10″) and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some hanging on the sides for easy removal later. Now, lay out the saltine crackers in a single layer, covering the entire sheet.
2. Make the Toffee Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar together over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts bubbling. Allow it to boil gently for about 3 minutes without stirring—this will help create the toffee texture!
3. Add the Peanut Butter:
Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter. Mix it well until it’s smooth and fully combined, creating a deliciously creamy toffee.
4. Spread the Toffee Over Crackers:
Carefully pour your hot toffee mixture evenly over the arranged saltine crackers. Use a spatula to gently spread it out so all the crackers are covered!
5. Bake the Toffee:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the toffee is bubbling away. This helps meld all those flavors together!
6. Add the Chocolate:
Take the baking sheet out of the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let them sit for about 2-3 minutes to melt, and then spread the melted chocolate all over the top using your spatula.
7. Top with Peanut Butter Cups and Peanuts:
While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle the chopped peanut butter cups and roasted peanuts evenly across the chocolate layer. Don’t forget to finish off with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that perfect sweet and salty balance.
8. Chill and Set:
Allow your toffee cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours—or until it’s fully set and firm!
9. Cut and Serve:
Once set, lift the entire slab out of the pan using the edges of the parchment. Break or cut into squares or rectangles, whatever size you prefer.
10. Storage:
Store your delicious toffee in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to one week. Enjoy your homemade chocolatey, crunchy, peanut buttery treat!
Now grab a piece (or two) of this scrumptious cracker toffee and enjoy every bite! 😊
Can I Use Different Types of Crackers?
Absolutely! While saltine crackers create a classic taste, you can substitute them with graham crackers or any plain, crispy cracker you have on hand. Just remember that the flavor might vary slightly based on what you choose!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Peanut Butter?
If you’re out of peanut butter or have a peanut allergy, no worries! You can replace it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. If you want to keep it fresh longer, refrigerate it—just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This toffee is perfect for making in advance. Just prepare it, let it set, and store it in an airtight container. It’s a great treat for parties or as a sweet gift!
