1 pound (about 4 cups) salted crackers (such as saltines)
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or almonds), optional
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Crackers:
Line the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Place the salted crackers in a single layer on the bottom of the slow cooker.
Make the Caramel:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens into a caramel consistency.
Pour Caramel Over Crackers:
Pour the caramel evenly over the salted crackers, using a spatula to spread it out if needed.
Cook in the Crockpot:
Cover the slow cooker with a lid and cook on low for 2-3 hours. The caramel will bubble and soak into the crackers.
Add Chocolate and Nuts:
About 15 minutes before the cooking time is complete, sprinkle the chocolate chips over the caramel layer. Let them melt slightly and then use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly.
If using nuts, sprinkle them over the melted chocolate.
Finish Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker again and let it continue cooking for the remaining time until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Add Vanilla and Salt:
Once the chocolate is melted, add the vanilla extract and, if desired, sprinkle sea salt over the top.
Cool and Set:
Turn off the slow cooker and let the Christmas Crack cool in the pot for about 30 minutes.
Lift the parchment paper to remove the Christmas Crack from the slow cooker and let it cool completely.
Break Into Pieces:
Once completely cooled and set, break the Christmas Crack into pieces.
Serve:
Serve and enjoy this sweet and salty holiday treat!
