Churro Saltine Toffee

Featured in Irresistible Sweet Treats.

Turn basic saltines into something special with this quick toffee recipe. Crackers get layered with caramel and white chocolate, then topped with cinnamon sugar for a churro-inspired treat.

Clare Greco
Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 16:12:50 GMT
A close-up of a stack of golden-brown dessert squares coated with sugar, revealing a creamy filling inside. Pin it
A close-up of a stack of golden-brown dessert squares coated with sugar, revealing a creamy filling inside. | recipesbyclare.com

I stumbled upon this Churro Saltine Toffee recipe last Christmas and it's become my most requested treat. The way the buttery toffee coats those salty crackers topped with chocolate and that magical cinnamon sugar sprinkle it's truly irresistible. Trust me everyone asks for the recipe.

You Need This in Your Life

What I love most about making this toffee is how simple it is. No fancy equipment needed just a few basic ingredients you probably have right now. It comes together so quickly but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Perfect when you need a last minute treat for guests or gifting.

Grab These Ingredients

  • Saltines: Just enough to cover your pan in one layer they make the perfect crispy base.
  • Butter: Two whole sticks create that rich caramel layer.
  • Brown Sugar: One cup gives us that deep toffee flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips: Two cups use the good ones it makes a difference.
  • Ground Cinnamon: A couple teaspoons for that authentic churro taste.
  • Sugar: Two tablespoons to mix with cinnamon for the topping.
A stack of layered dessert bars dusted with powdered sugar sits on a small plate, with a blurred bowl of dessert and scattered treats in the background. Pin it
A stack of layered dessert bars dusted with powdered sugar sits on a small plate, with a blurred bowl of dessert and scattered treats in the background. | recipesbyclare.com

Let's Make Magic

First Things First
Line your pan with foil or parchment then lay out those saltines like a puzzle.
Make That Toffee
Melt your butter and brown sugar together keep stirring until it starts bubbling then hands off for three minutes.
Cover Those Crackers
Pour that golden toffee all over your saltines spread it quick then pop it in the oven at 375°F for just 4 minutes.
Time for Chocolate
Sprinkle those chips over the hot toffee let them get melty then spread into a smooth layer.
The Churro Touch
Mix up your cinnamon sugar and sprinkle it all over while everything's still warm.
The Waiting Game
Let it cool completely before breaking into pieces I know it's hard to wait but so worth it.

Keep It Fresh

Pop your toffee in an airtight container it'll stay good for two weeks if it lasts that long. Want to save some for later? Freeze it up to three months. The best part? You can eat it straight from the freezer.

My Best Tips

Make sure that sugar's completely dissolved before boiling or your toffee might turn grainy. Splurge on good chocolate chips they melt better and taste amazing. Give it plenty of time to set or you'll end up with messy pieces.

A stack of four layered desserts dusted with sugar sits on a white plate, surrounded by gold star decorations. Pin it
A stack of four layered desserts dusted with sugar sits on a white plate, surrounded by gold star decorations. | recipesbyclare.com

Spread the Joy

I love packing this toffee in pretty holiday tins or clear bags tied with ribbon. It's become my signature homemade gift everyone looks forward to it especially my kids' teachers and our neighbors.

The Perfect Balance

There's something magical about how the sweet toffee chocolate and cinnamon sugar work with those salty crackers. Each bite gives you that perfect mix of flavors and textures that keeps you coming back for more.

Why This Recipe Works

Unlike traditional toffee you don't need any special tools or candy making skills. The saltine base makes it foolproof and that churro twist makes it extra special. It's my go to when I need something impressive but easy.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I drizzle white chocolate on top or sprinkle on some crushed pecans. Sea salt gives it an extra fancy touch. During the holidays I add some festive sprinkles to make it even more special.

A stack of golden, chewy dessert squares dusted with sugar on a light gray plate, with a blurred bowl of spread in the background. Pin it
A stack of golden, chewy dessert squares dusted with sugar on a light gray plate, with a blurred bowl of spread in the background. | recipesbyclare.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why did my white chocolate not melt smoothly?

White chocolate can be tricky to melt. If needed, put the pan back in the warm oven for about a minute to help it melt completely.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead?

Yes, you can swap the white chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate chips. The flavor will be different but still delicious.

→ How should I store this toffee?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. In warm weather, keep it in the fridge to prevent melting.

→ Why did my caramel separate?

Make sure to boil the butter and sugar mixture for the full 3 minutes until it turns deep caramel color. Rushing this step can cause separation.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Yes, make it up to a week ahead. Keep in an airtight container with wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Churro Saltine Toffee

A quick and easy toffee made with saltine crackers, topped with white chocolate and cinnamon sugar for that classic churro taste.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
5 Minutes
Total Time
15 Minutes

Category: Sweet Treats

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 24 Servings (40 pieces)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 40 salted saltine crackers.
02 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
03 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
04 1 cup unsalted butter.
05 1 cup brown sugar.
06 2 cups white chocolate chips.

Instructions

Step 01

Heat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil. Put crackers in one layer on the sheet.

Step 02

Stir sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 03

Melt butter and brown sugar in a pan. Let it boil for 3 minutes until deep caramel colored. Pour over crackers and spread evenly.

Step 04

Bake for 5-6 minutes until the caramel gets bubbly.

Step 05

Sprinkle white chocolate chips over hot toffee. Let sit 5 minutes to melt, then spread smooth.

Step 06

Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mix over the melted white chocolate.

Step 07

Let it cool completely. Pop in fridge for 10 minutes to set chocolate faster. Break into pieces to serve.

Notes

  1. Can reheat pan briefly to help melt chocolate if needed.
  2. Cool completely before breaking.
  3. Refrigerate to speed up setting.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet.
  • Parchment paper or foil.
  • Saucepan.
  • Rubber spatula.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (butter, white chocolate).
  • Wheat (saltine crackers).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 165
  • Total Fat: 8 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 22 g
  • Protein: 1 g