Churro Saltine Toffee Recipe
Churro Saltine Toffee is a delightful dessert combining a crispy Saltine cracker base topped with a rich, buttery toffee layer, finished with cinnamon sugar for that classic churro flavor. Optional chocolate and nut toppings add texture and indulgence, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes including cooling
- Yield: About 40 pieces or 8x12 inch batch 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Toffee Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Churro Coating
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 package (about 40) Saltine crackers
Optional Toppings
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or almonds)
Substitutions
- Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute Saltine crackers with gluten-free crackers.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the Saltine crackers in a single layer, covering the entire pan without overlapping.
- Make the Toffee Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir constantly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour Toffee Over Crackers: Immediately pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the arranged Saltine crackers, ensuring all crackers are coated. Use a spatula to spread the toffee evenly if necessary.
- Bake the Toffee: Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes. The toffee should bubble and become fragrant.
- Apply Churro Coating: While the toffee is baking, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. As soon as you remove the baking sheet from the oven, immediately sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the hot toffee layer so it sticks well.
- Add Optional Toppings: Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee and cinnamon sugar coating. Allow the chips to sit for a few minutes to melt slightly, then spread them evenly over the top using a spatula. If desired, add chopped nuts on top while the chocolate is still warm.
- Cool Completely: Allow the toffee to cool at room temperature until fully set, about 1-2 hours. For faster setting, refrigerate the pan once cooled a few minutes.
- Break and Serve: Once hardened, break the toffee into irregular pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Ensure to pour the toffee mixture immediately over the crackers for the best adhesion.
- The baking time and temperature are critical – do not overbake as the toffee can burn.
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- If gluten-free is required, substitute Saltine crackers with gluten-free crackers.
- Store toffee in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
Keywords: churro toffee, saltine toffee, easy dessert, cinnamon sugar toffee, holiday treat, homemade toffee