Churro Cracker Candy is a fun, easy-to-make treat that combines the flavors of a churro with the crunch of crackers, creating an irresistible dessert. This recipe features buttery crackers coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, and it’s perfect for snacking or sharing at parties.
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve of salted saltine crackers (about 40 crackers)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy twist
- ½ cup crushed pecans or almonds for added crunch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
Step 2: Arrange the Crackers
- Place the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, covering the entire surface.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Set aside the cinnamon-sugar mixture for later.
Step 4: Make the Butter Mixture
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract and salt (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
- Carefully pour the butter mixture evenly over the crackers, spreading it with a spatula to make sure all the crackers are covered.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the buttered crackers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the butter mixture is bubbly and the crackers are golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the Churro Cracker Candy cool completely.
- Once cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate (if desired) and sprinkle with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Break the candy into pieces and serve.
Cooking Notes
- Crackers: Saltine crackers work best, but you can also use graham crackers for a slightly sweeter version.
- Butter Mixture: Be sure to stir constantly while cooking the butter mixture to prevent burning.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature.
Variations
1. Chocolate-Dipped Churro Candy
After the candy has cooled, dip each piece halfway into melted dark or white chocolate for a chocolatey twist.
2. Spicy Churro Candy
Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy version of this treat.
3. Nutty Churro Candy
Sprinkle crushed pecans, almonds, or walnuts on top of the crackers before baking for added crunch and flavor.
4. Caramel Churro Candy
Drizzle caramel sauce over the cooled candy for an extra layer of sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Churro Cracker Candy ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this treat a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to serve.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover churro cracker candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’ve added chocolate, it’s best to keep it in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use other types of crackers?
Yes, you can substitute graham crackers, Ritz crackers, or club crackers for a different flavor and texture.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter provides the best flavor, you can substitute margarine in this recipe, though the taste may differ slightly.
Q: Can I freeze Churro Cracker Candy?
Yes! You can freeze the cooled candy for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
This Churro Cracker Candy is a quick and simple treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends. The combination of buttery crackers, cinnamon-sugar, and optional chocolate makes this dessert an instant favorite. Customize it with nuts, spice, or caramel for your own unique twist!
