This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cracker Toffee is a sweet treat that combines crunchy crackers, gooey peanut butter, and rich chocolate. It’s easy to make and so yummy, you’ll want to share… or not!
I love how this toffee is the perfect mix of salty and sweet. Plus, it looks fancy but takes hardly any time at all. Get ready to impress your friends—just don’t tell them how easy it was! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Saltine Crackers: These provide a nice crunch and contrast to the sweetness. If you don’t have saltines, you could use graham crackers or pretzels for a different flavor profile.
Unsalted Butter: I prefer using unsalted butter to better control the saltiness of the toffee. If you only have salted butter, just reduce any added salt in the recipe.
Brown Sugar: This is what gives the toffee its rich caramel flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar with a bit of molasses. Just one tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar will work!
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are a classic choice, but you can swap in dark chocolate or even milk chocolate if you like it sweeter. You could also use chopped chocolate bars.
Peanut Butter: I like creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture, but chunky peanut butter adds a fun crunch. If you need a nut-free option, sun butter or soy nut butter can be great substitutes.
Mini Peanut Butter Cups: These add a delightful touch! If you can’t find them, chopped chocolate or caramel candies can be a fun alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Toffee Sets Perfectly?
Getting the toffee to set just right is key for the perfect texture. Here are some tips to follow:
- Cook your butter and brown sugar mixture until it boils fully, then time it for exactly 3 minutes.
- Don’t stir once it starts boiling, as this can cause it to crystalize.
- Let the mixture cool completely before cutting into squares—this helps achieve clean edges.
- For added ease, chill the toffee after it cools at room temperature. It helps firm it up quickly!
Following these steps will ensure you have beautifully set toffee that’s easy to slice for sharing!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cracker Toffee
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Base:
- 40 saltine crackers (about 2 sleeves)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
For The Topping:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky, your choice)
- 12 mini peanut butter cups, halved
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation, plus 2 hours for chilling to set properly. You’ll spend the majority of the time assembling the layers, waiting for them to bake, and letting the toffee chill. It’s a simple and satisfying dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a rimmed 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Make sure to leave some overhang so you can easily lift the toffee out later. Next, line the bottom with the saltine crackers in a single layer. It’s okay if they overlap a little bit!
2. Make the Toffee Base:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir often until the mixture starts to boil. Once it reaches a boil, let it cook for exactly 3 minutes without stirring. This will create a rich caramel toffee base.
3. Combine Vanilla and Pour Over Crackers:
After the 3 minutes, remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract if you’re using it. Be careful, as it may bubble a bit! Quickly pour the hot toffee evenly over the saltine crackers and spread it out with a spatula to ensure they are all covered. Then, return the pan to the oven and bake for about 5 minutes.
4. Add Chocolate Chips:
Once baked, take the pan out of the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot toffee layer. Let the chips sit for about 5 minutes so they soften, then spread them out into a smooth layer using a spatula.
5. Swirl in Peanut Butter:
While the chocolate is still warm, spoon dollops of peanut butter over the chocolate layer. Use a knife or offset spatula to gently swirl the peanut butter into the chocolate, creating a marbled effect.
6. Top with Peanut Butter Cups:
Next, press the halved mini peanut butter cups into the top of the chocolate-peanut butter layer. If you’d like some extra crunch, sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts on top.
7. Cool and Set:
Let the toffee cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour, then place it in the refrigerator for at least another hour to set firmly. This will make it easier to cut later!
8. Cut and Serve:
Once fully set, grab the edges of the parchment or foil and lift the toffee out of the pan. Use a sharp knife to cut it into squares or rectangles. Enjoy this sweet mix of saltiness from the crackers, creaminess from the peanut butter, and richness from the chocolate!
This irresistible layered toffee is perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). It’s a delightful treat that combines delightful flavors and textures in every bite. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Crackers?
Absolutely! While saltines are classic, feel free to experiment with graham crackers or pretzels for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind this may alter the sweetness or texture slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If it’s particularly warm, refrigeration may help keep it firm. Just let it come to room temperature before serving for optimal enjoyment!
Can I Make This Recipe Nut-Free?
Yes! You can easily swap the peanut butter for sun butter or another nut-free alternative. Just check that the added chocolate and any toppings are also nut-free to keep the entire treat safe for those with allergies.
Why Is My Toffee Not Setting Properly?
If your toffee is too soft, it may not have been cooked long enough. Ensure you let the butter and sugar mixture boil for a full 3 minutes without stirring. Let it chill completely after baking to help it firm up!
