Cherry Coded Chocolate Toffee Crunch (Printable)

Decadent chocolate, buttery toffee, and candied cherries layered on crisp crackers for a crunchy treat.

# Components:

→ Base

01 - 1 sleeve (approximately 40) salted saltine crackers

→ Toffee Layer

02 - 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter
03 - 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed

→ Chocolate Layer

04 - 2 cups (340 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

→ Topping

05 - 1 cup (120 g) candied cherries, finely chopped
06 - 1/2 cup (60 g) toasted pecans, chopped (optional)
07 - Flaky sea salt, for finishing

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, then lightly grease.
02 - Arrange the saltine crackers in a single, even layer to completely cover the bottom of the prepared baking sheet.
03 - In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches a boil. Continue to boil for 3 minutes without further agitation.
04 - Immediately pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the prepared cracker base. Gently spread with a spatula to ensure all crackers are covered.
05 - Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the toffee is bubbly and has achieved a slightly darkened hue.
06 - Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee. Allow to sit for 2 minutes to soften, then spread the melted chocolate smoothly to cover the surface.
07 - Evenly sprinkle the chopped candied cherries and pecans (if using) over the chocolate layer. Finish with a light dusting of flaky sea salt.
08 - Allow to cool completely at room temperature, or for faster setting, refrigerate for approximately 30 minutes.
09 - Once fully set, break the confection into desired pieces and serve.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • No special equipment required just basic kitchen tools you already own
  • Ready in under 30 minutes of active time
  • Makes an impressive holiday gift that looks gourmet but costs little
  • Perfect balance of sweet salty and fruity flavors
02 -
  • This recipe makes an excellent homemade gift when packaged in decorative tins
  • Can be made up to one week ahead perfect for holiday prep
  • Contains approximately 180 calories per piece making it a reasonable occasional treat
  • The layers create a stunning visual effect when broken into pieces
03 -
  • The success of this recipe hinges on precise timing. When making the toffee, use a timer and trust the process even if it doesn't look completely perfect. The oven time transforms it beautifully.
  • I've learned through many batches that the quality of your chocolate makes a significant difference—splurge on the good stuff for this recipe. It's worth it.
  • And finally, don't rush the cooling process. Patience delivers the perfect snap when you break it apart.
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