Churro Cracker Candy Recipe

Introduction

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about churros—those warm, crispy, sugary delights that take us straight to our favorite fairs and carnivals. But what if you could capture that sweet, cinnamon-sugar goodness in a simple, quick dessert? Enter Churro Cracker Candy! This delightful treat combines the buttery crunch of saltine crackers with a sweet caramel topping, creamy white chocolate, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. It’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or a simple family treat. Every bite is an explosion of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing and your family asking for seconds!

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 sleeve of saltine crackers (about 40 crackers)
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Topping:

• 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and stir until combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon until well mixed.

Step 3: Pour the Caramel Over Crackers
Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture over the saltine crackers, spreading it evenly to cover all the crackers. Be cautious, as the caramel is very hot!

Step 4: Bake the Crackers
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 7-8 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and slightly darkened. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 5: Add the White Chocolate
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the white chocolate chips over the hot caramel-covered crackers. Let the chocolate sit for a few minutes to melt, then use a spatula or knife to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the top.

Step 6: Dust with Cinnamon-Sugar
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Lightly dust the top of the melted chocolate with the cinnamon-sugar mixture for that classic churro flavor.

Step 7: Let It Set and Break
Allow the Churro Cracker Candy to cool at room temperature or refrigerate it for 1 hour until the chocolate is firm. Once set, break the candy into pieces and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 20
• Calories: 210 kcal per piece
• Sugar: 15 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (plus cooling time)

How to Serve

• Enjoy as a Snack: Perfect for munching on during movie nights or game days.
• At Parties: Serve in a large bowl for guests to help themselves.
• Gifts: Package in decorative boxes or bags for sweet gifts.
• With Coffee or Tea: Pair with your favorite beverage for a delightful afternoon treat.

Additional Tips

1. Watch the Caramel: Keep a close eye while baking to prevent burning; caramel can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
2. Use Parchment Paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
3. Chill for Crispiness: Allowing the candy to cool completely will ensure a crispy texture.
4. Experiment with Toppings: Try using dark chocolate or even peanut butter chips for a different flavor.
5. Store in an Airtight Container: To keep your Churro Cracker Candy fresh for longer.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Churro Cracker Candy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar for a spicy kick.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds) over the chocolate for added crunch.
• Caramel Swirl: Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for an even sweeter treat.

Serving Suggestions

• With Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla or caramel ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Fruit Pairing: Fresh strawberries or bananas can balance the sweetness beautifully.
• Holiday Treats: Perfect for Christmas or Thanksgiving gatherings, especially when packaged nicely.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Churro Cracker Candy can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container.
• Storage: Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cracker?

• Yes! You can substitute saltines with graham crackers or Ritz crackers for a unique flavor.

1. Is there a dairy-free version?

• You can use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to make it dairy-free.

1. How do I know when the caramel is ready?

• The caramel should be bubbly and slightly darkened when you remove it from the oven.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

• Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container.

1. What if I don’t have white chocolate chips?

• You can substitute with milk or dark chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips.

1. How do I store leftovers?

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

1. Can I add more cinnamon?

• Feel free to adjust the cinnamon to your taste; add more for a stronger flavor!

1. What if I don’t have parchment paper?

• You can grease the baking sheet, but parchment paper makes for easier cleanup.

1. Can I add nuts?

• Yes, chopped nuts can be sprinkled on top for added crunch and flavor.

1. What other toppings can I use?
   • Consider adding sprinkles, crushed cookies, or a drizzle of caramel for extra flair.

Conclusion

Churro Cracker Candy is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings together the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar with the satisfying crunch of crackers. It’s simple enough to make on a whim yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Whether you enjoy it as an afternoon snack, a party treat, or a special gift, this delightful concoction is sure to bring smiles and sweet memories. Give it a try, and watch it become a favorite in your household!

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