If you have a sweet tooth and love that perfect combination of crispy and gooey textures, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Churro Cracker Candy Recipe. It is a delightful treat that transforms simple saltine crackers into a caramelized, cinnamon-sugar coated masterpiece that tastes like a churro in every bite. Easy to prepare with ingredients you likely have on hand, this recipe delivers an addictively crunchy and buttery experience that’s perfect for sharing—or savoring all by yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you! Each one plays an essential role in crafting the luscious texture and cozy cinnamon-sugar flavor that make this candy so irresistible.
- Saltine crackers: About 40 crackers, forming the crisp and salty base that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (226g) for that rich, creamy caramel foundation that soaks into the crackers.
- Brown sugar: 1 cup (200g), bringing deep molasses notes and a sticky caramel magic.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, adding a warm, aromatic lift to the candy’s flavor profile.
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100g), combined with cinnamon for the crunchy, sweet topping.
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tablespoon, sprinkling in that classic churro-inspired spice that makes the candy unforgettable.
How to Make Churro Cracker Candy Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, then lightly grease it. This ensures the candy won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Next, arrange your saltine crackers in a single, tight layer, edge to edge, covering the entire surface.
Step 2: Create the Caramel Mixture
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together the unsalted butter and brown sugar. Stir constantly and let the mixture come to a boil for 2 to 3 minutes—this step is crucial as it cooks the sugar just right for that perfect caramel. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, lending a fragrant finish.
Step 3: Coat the Crackers and Bake
Pour the hot caramel evenly over the layer of saltine crackers, using a spatula or spoon to spread it and cover every cracker. Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, watching for the caramel to bubble and set the stage for a crisp finish.
Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the candy is baking, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Once you remove the baking sheet from the oven, sprinkle this cinnamon sugar mixture generously and evenly across the hot caramel-coated crackers. This step locks in that iconic churro flavor and adds a delightful crunchy texture.
Step 5: Cool and Break into Pieces
Let the candy cool completely for about 30 to 40 minutes to allow it to set and harden nicely. Once cooled, break it into pieces and get ready to indulge in this sweet, crispy, cinnamon-sparked treat!
How to Serve Churro Cracker Candy Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to elevate your Churro Cracker Candy Recipe, consider dusting a little extra cinnamon or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top just before serving. For a richer experience, drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate or caramel sauce to highlight the candy’s sweet and savory contrasts.
Side Dishes
This candy pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to soften the crunchy texture with some creamy goodness. A hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai latte also make perfect companions, enhancing the warm cinnamon notes and balancing the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifts, break the candy into bite-sized pieces and arrange them in decorative boxes or jars. Layer pieces between parchment sheets to keep them from sticking. You can also skewer chunks for a fun “churro candy kabob” presentation, perfect for kids or a festive dessert table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Churro Cracker Candy Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve its crispness. It will stay fresh and crunchy for about 3 to 5 days, making it easy to enjoy over multiple snack sessions.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, wrap the candy pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen candy can last up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying to maintain the ideal crunch.
Reheating
If you like your candy a bit warm and melty, pop the pieces in a low oven (around 250°F or 120°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Just be careful to watch them closely so they don’t burn or lose their crisp texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cracker instead of saltines?
Saltine crackers are ideal because their salty, light texture balances the sweet caramel perfectly, but you can experiment with other thin, plain crackers. Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the caramel without becoming soggy.
Is it necessary to grease the baking sheet?
Lightly greasing the baking sheet helps prevent the candy from sticking, making it much easier to remove once cooled. You can also line the pan with parchment paper or foil for even easier cleanup.
Can I make the candy dairy-free or vegan?
Yes! Substitute the unsalted butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil, and ensure your brown sugar doesn’t contain bone char. The texture and flavor may change slightly but will still be delicious.
How long does this candy stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, the candy will stay fresh and crispy for up to 5 days. After that, it may begin to lose its crunch.
Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans, almonds, or even chocolate chips can be sprinkled over the cracker caramel right before baking or after the cinnamon sugar topping for added texture and flavor bursts.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Churro Cracker Candy Recipe enough—it’s ridiculously easy to make and impossible not to love. Whether you’re craving a sweet snack, need a quick dessert for guests, or want a festive treat to share, this recipe brings together simple ingredients and magical flavors that always impress. Give it a try, and prepare for everyone around you to ask for seconds!
Print
Churro Cracker Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 12 or more pieces
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Churro Cracker Candy recipe delivers a delightful fusion of sweet caramelized sugar and crispy saltine crackers, topped with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for that classic churro flavor. Easy to prepare and perfect for a sweet snack or party treat, this candy offers a crunchy texture with a rich buttery caramel coating infused with vanilla.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 40 saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Crackers: Lay out the 40 saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, placing them edge to edge without gaps.
- Make Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the brown sugar and bring to a boil while stirring constantly. Let it boil for 2 to 3 minutes to develop the caramel, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Spread Caramel: Immediately pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the arranged saltine crackers, spreading it to cover the surface thoroughly.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the caramel mixture is bubbly and set.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: While the crackers bake, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together in a small bowl to create the topping.
- Add Topping: As soon as the baking sheet comes out of the oven and the caramel is still hot, generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the caramel-coated crackers.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the candy to cool completely on the baking sheet for 30 to 40 minutes so the caramel sets. Once cooled, break the candy into pieces and serve.
Notes
- Line the baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
- Ensure the caramel is hot when poured to spread evenly over crackers.
- Use fresh cinnamon for the best flavor in the topping.
- Store leftover candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For extra crunch, chill the candy after cooling before breaking into pieces.
