Of course! Oklahoma Nut Candy is a beloved, no-fuss confection that’s also known by names like “Saltine Cracker Candy,” “Christmas Crack,” or “Poor Man’s Toffee.” It’s the perfect combination of sweet, salty, buttery, and crunchy, and it’s incredibly easy to make.
Here’s the classic, foolproof recipe.
Oklahoma Nut Candy (a.k.a. Saltine Cracker Toffee)
This recipe requires no candy thermometer and transforms simple ingredients into an addictive treat.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Setting Time: 2 hours (or 30 minutes in the freezer)
Servings: Makes about 1.5 pounds
Ingredients
· 35-40 saltine crackers (one sleeve)
· 1 cup (2 sticks / 226g) unsalted butter
· 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
· 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
· 2 cups (12 oz / 340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
· 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts are classic)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 10×15-inch jelly roll pan or a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Grease the foil lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
- Create the Cracker Base: Arrange the saltine crackers in a single, snug layer on the bottom of the prepared pan, breaking them as needed to fill any gaps.
- Make the Toffee Layer: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, continue to boil for 3 minutes without stirring. The mixture will bubble up and thicken slightly.
- Add Vanilla & Pour: Remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract (be careful, it may sputter). Quickly and carefully pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the arranged crackers. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it to cover all the crackers.
- First Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes. The toffee will be bubbly all over.
- Add Chocolate: Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top. Let them sit for 2-3 minutes to soften and melt from the residual heat.
- Spread Chocolate: Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread the melted chocolate into a smooth, even layer.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the melted chocolate, gently pressing them down so they adhere.
- Cool and Set: Allow the pan to cool completely on a wire rack. For a faster set, you can place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or 30 minutes in the freezer).
- Break and Serve: Once the candy is completely firm, lift it out of the pan using the foil or parchment paper. Break it into irregular pieces by hand or cut it with a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
Tips for Perfect Candy Every Time
· Don’t Skimp on the Boil: The 3-minute boil is crucial for the toffee to set up correctly. If you don’t boil it long enough, it may stay sticky; too long, and it can burn.
· Work Quickly: The toffee mixture will begin to set as it cools, so you need to move fast when pouring and spreading it over the crackers.
· Customize It: This recipe is a perfect canvas for creativity.
· Chocolate: Use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even peanut butter chips.
· Toppings: Swap the nuts for toffee bits, crushed pretzels, sprinkles, or a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
· Why Saltines? The saltines provide a fantastic salty, flaky base that contrasts beautifully with the sweet toffee and chocolate. They also don’t get soggy.
The Story Behind the Name
The name “Oklahoma Nut Candy” is a bit folksy and points to its origins as a simple, resourceful “make-do” dessert, popular in the American South and Midwest. It uses inexpensive, pantry-stable ingredients to create a treat that feels luxurious. Its other name, “Christmas Crack,” comes from its addictive quality and its popularity as a holiday treat that’s passed around on cookie platters.
Enjoy this incredibly easy and delicious candy! It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.